Local Activism for Global Climate Justice

This book will inspire and spark grassroots action to address the inequitable impacts of climate change, by showing how this can be tackled and the many benefits of doing so.

With contributions from climate activists and engaged young authors, this volume explores the many ways in which people are proactively working to advance climate justice. The book pays special attention to Canada and the Great Lakes watershed, showing how the effects of climate change span local, regional, and global scales through the impact of extreme weather events such as floods and droughts, with related economic and social effects that cross political jurisdictions. Examining examples of local-level activism that include organizing for climate-resilient and equitable communities, the dynamic leadership of Indigenous peoples (especially women) for water and land protection, and diaspora networking, Local Activism for Global Climate Justice also provides theoretical perspectives on how individual action relates to broader social and political processes.

Showcasing a diverse range of inspirational and thought-provoking case studies, this book will be of great interest to students and scholars of climate justice, climate change policy, climate ethics, and global environmental governance, as well as teachers and climate activists.

'This engaging collection provides compelling reasons for "starting close to home" when responding to the challenges of climate change. A range of fascinating case studies shows that thinking locally is vital for understanding the complex flows of people, power, and knowledge that shape environmental problems and solutions. A watershed can be both a place and a turning point; what a brilliant idea to showcase the diverse mobilizations of climate justice on the shores of the Great Lakes at this pivotal time for the planet.' ? Sherilyn MacGregor, Reader in Environmental Politics, The University of Manchester, UK

'A compilation of rich and deeply moving "stories" from young climate justice leaders and activists which make a compelling and truly inspirational read.' ? Tahseen Jafry, Professor and Director, The Centre for Climate Justice, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK

'This book shares stories from the frontlines of those fighting for climate justice. The often personal accounts inform and inspire, from the everyday politics of how we eat, work, and play, to labour movement organizing, community initiatives, and direct action to spark ideas for reconnecting through art and the sacred. This book serves as an important reminder and inspiration to all those concerned about climate justice of what we can do in our daily lives to make a difference.' ? Leah Temper, Ecological Economist, Scholar Activist, and Filmmaker based at McGill University, Montreal, Canada, and the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain

'How do we foster a compassionate response to the human dimensions of today?s climate changes? This is the challenge that this volume meets head-on as it considers the global calls for dealing with climate injustices from a regional grounding, and thus shows us how local actions can scale up to a global response in the absence of meaningful political leadership. Drawing from actions in the areas of policy, education, and community-building, this edited book offers a diversity of case studies and a wonderful Action Glossary that can inspire each of us to re-think ways of growing into our time of climate justice.' ? Timothy B. Leduc, Assistant Professor, Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada