There is a somewhat pointlessly semantic dicussion through threads of cimate action on the need for system change vs individual behavioural change. (Spoiler – you need both)
The basis for the demand for system change is that the growth based economic systems we have in the west, and much of the world, is in itself driving unsustainable environmental damage. The wrong performance indicators lead to increasing resource extraction, deforestation, etc. Although some countries have cosmetically addressed this. Their general approach has not seemingly changed.
I have yet to see a discussion about how this system change is going to happen.
There are three ways it might happen.
1 Ask nicely
The public ask nicely and the rich and powerful voluntarily give up a system that has got them where they are. All the politicians whose funding comes from hedge funds and oil companies change their ways. Let’s say just say this is not imminent.
2 Armed Revolution
Armed revolution would be one way to achieve a system change. However armed revolution has a chequered history of putting someone better in charge. Let’s just say this is not preferable
3. Do Nothing
Do absolutely nothing.
More specifically buy nothing
More specifically than that, buy nothing NEW.
There have been movements to stop buying clothing due to the environmental damage the fashion industry causes.
Why stop there? Is there an industry that has no environmental impact?
Western economies are based largely on consumption, with manufacturing and other heavy industry offshored. This means that the words “growth” and “consumption” are largely interchangeable, it is just that the Chancellor doesn’t sound so good when he promises to increase consumption every year.
If consumption falls, due to lack of people buying pointless things they don’t need, then the system will be broken and a new one will have to be implemented.
Buying nothing is a lot easier than armed revolution. You are probably doing it now. You don’t even need a piece of chipboard on a stick with a snappy slogan on it. Partly because that might involve buying something.
Armchair Climate Activism at its most effective.