TakingITGlobal

I don't understand why our government stresses sustainable development while building a pipeline at the same time. That does not show effort to me. ( E D M O N T O N , B L O G 4 A ) This understanding that governments can inhibit climate change action caused many team members to emphasize that citizens need to change their views, as representative democracies, at least in theory, accommodate the majority. Since Canada is a democracy, just because some people want to change yet the majority does not want it, means that most of the time the change won't happen… ( E D M O N T O N , B L O G 4 B ) On the other hand, team members observed that many people do not believe they have the ability to affect climate change. I think that people are interested in climate change, but they do not consider that it is in their hands to change it, just believe that the government is the one with the problem, not them. ( B O G O T Á , I N T E R V I E W 1 ) The people have the power, but maybe don't believe it. ( L I M A , B L O G 2 B ) In contrast, team members placed a strong emphasis on citizen agency, or 'people power,' a curious finding as youth are officially barred from voting. Additionally, not one team member questioned this exclusion. Rather, all team members agreed that citizen participation in political systems is possible, essential, and particularly effective locally. The citizens of Alberta and Calgary do have a say in what actions are being taken in terms of climate change. Through voting, talking to elected officials, and getting involved, everyone has the opportunity to make a difference. ( C A L G A R Y , B L O G 2 C ) Please vote! To democratic nations voting is a huge power.... And don't just be interested in huge political voting and elections; I say it's better to go local because that's how it will personally affect you. So be interested in who is taking over your ward, who is your mayor… ( E D M O N T O N , I N T E R V I E W ) In response to the lack of effective government action they observed, team members identified an essential role for education, considered to be key for the development of citizen awareness and engagement, which are in turn essential for changing government policies and responding to climate change. The youth, the schools, and the cities have an important role... The schools have the vital work to teach us everything that we must know for the future. Schools influence how we see the world and should teach us how to help. ( L I M A , B L O G 4 B ) 46 | F I N D I N G S

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