Forres Extinction Rebellion highlight links between the cost of living and high energy prices
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ENVIRONMENTAL protestors took to High Street to highlight the links between the cost of living and high energy prices.
Forres Extinction Rebellion (XR) members unveiled a banner proclaiming ‘Cost of Living Crisis = Climate Crisis’ at Grant Park and invited people passing by their stall at Forres House Community Centre to talk about the squeeze driven by fuel and power costs.
Julia Tucknott was one of five manning the stall on a recent Saturday morning.
She said: “Around 20 people stopped to talk and take part in our citizen’s survey which included questions such as ‘Is the government doing enough?. People found this question amusing - one replied ‘No they are not! and another ‘It’s rubbish’. The lack of UK government support for green policies was an issue - Whitehall is generally considered a culprit. ’We could do more’ was the public perception of the Scottish government.”
The survey also asked ‘How do you feel about the climate?’ and ‘Would you like a People’s Assembly?’.
“There was a range of replies from ‘Not worried’ to ‘Extremely concerned’ said Julia. ‘Just look at the weather, it’s more like Spring’ was another. There was overwhelming support for being able to have a say.”
XR Forres points out that the cost of living and climate crisis are interconnected.
Julia said: “That’s why we were out listening to local residents’ concerns. We were there to listen to the reality of the cost of living and make the connection. The fossil fuel industry is the common culprit. Both crises are driven by the largest polluters who drive up emissions and bills whilst making record profits. If we want cheaper energy bills the government should not be investing in the most expensive energy - gas - through projects like Cambo and Rosebank; instead they should be removing barriers to deliver the cheapest energy. Governments should stop new oil and gas projects, tax the polluters and invest in renewables.”
XR Forres supported XR Inverness on Thursday when they visit Highlands and Islands Council.
Julia explained: “Father Christmas read out who’s on the nice and naughty environmental action list!”
