Wanstead Climate Action will host a community screening of People’s Emergency Briefing at Wanstead Library in June to explore what the growing risks of climate change could mean locally. Sunil Kapur reports
People’s Emergency Briefing is a film about the risks to British life from ongoing damage to nature and to our climate. The 50-minute film presents evidence from leading UK experts on climate science, food security, health and economic stability. It is about the direct impact of climate change on ordinary life – only last summer, there were wildfires on Wanstead Flats, which led to the call-out of 70 firefighters and 10 fire engines.
This is a public information film that is urgent and clear, but also watchable! In it, naturalist and television presenter Chris Packham is joined by people from all walks of life, including well-known public figures like Jennifer Saunders and Deborah Meaden. Members of the public and celebrities discuss their concerns and hopes in a film which is both serious and uplifting. It’s eye-opening, Gogglebox-style science, but with normal people. “It’s not abstract. It’s not party political. And most importantly, it’s not bleak… I am so filled with hope after seeing just how many events have been lined up across the country. This really could be a tipping point,” said one viewer.
A majority of the UK population have consistently expressed they are concerned not enough is being done to address climate change. The film has been produced specifically for mainstream audiences. The initiative is non-partisan and supported by organisations including the Church of England, the National Trust, the UK Health Alliance and leading academic institutions.
Following the film, we will host a structured discussion on what this means locally. Calvin Bailey MBE, the local MP for Leyton and Wanstead, has confirmed he will attend, as will several councillors. We also expect local faith leaders to join us, as well as members of local medical services and business leaders.
The film illustrates the imminent threats of climate change. The UK could continue to respond “after the event” to every flood and wildfire. But if we take more proactive action now, the financial cost could be halved and millions of UK households spared the misery of flooding and other disasters.
Many assume that the costs of making the UK more resilient are astronomical, but in reality, the annual cost of proactive changes is £4bn per year. The UK remains the sixth-largest economy in the world and those sums are achievable if there is political will. This screening is part of a nationwide programme to engage citizens with their political representatives. With proper action, we could have a stronger economy, a more resilient country, better food security and a healthier population!
A screening of People’s Emergency Briefing will take place at Wanstead Library on 3 June from 7pm (free; booking required; over-16s only). Visit wnstd.com/peb
