The historic Mass Climate Lobby calls on the UK Government to deliver funding for communities hit hardest by climate change, restore native nature and create a greener future jobs market.
Taking place today, Wednesday 9th July, the event is led by The Climate Coalition, which counts 22million members. The action has been welcomed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer among other politicians.
Dubbed the Act Now, Change Forever Mass Climate Lobby, the event will see 5,000 ‘parents, pensioners, famers, doctors and youth campaigners’ meet 300 MPs at Westminister. Three clear policy demands will form the focal point of discussions – reparations to global communities facing the worst of the crisis, nature restoration in the UK, and greener jobs and improved equity across all employment sectors – although the idea is to facilitate open dialogue between government and the electorate.
The event continues an ongoing push for action on the environmental crisis and was preceded by digital artwork projected onto the White Cliffs of Dover. Entitled The People’s Picture, it claimed 89% of the public wants more support for the climate, and asked if politicians were listening to constituents. Ben Fogle, Sir Ben Okri, Brian Cox, David Gyasi, Dominique Palmer, Isabella Tree, Kate Lawler, Konnie Huq, Nish Kumar, and Stephen Fry, are among the celebrities that have thrown their weight behind the campaign.
‘The issues you are discussing today are central to my commitment to tackling climate change, both here in the UK and around the world,’ said Keir Starmer, who also emphasised improvements in policy on biodiversity and nature restoration, alongside an increase in legal action and penalties for water companies at the centre of ongoing sewage and pollution controversies. ‘Together, these actions reflect our unwavering commitment to climate action, energy security, and social justice. I am proud of the role the UK is playing in building a greener, fairer future for all.
‘Internationally, we are proud of the impact our climate finance has already made, helping over 110million people adapt to climate change, providing 82million with access to clean energy, and mobilising billions in private investment,’ he continued. ‘As you know, unlocking private finance is critical to scaling up global climate action, especially in developing countries. The UK is committed to playing a leading role in this effort, while also creating opportunities at home.’
However, as Helen Meech, Executive Director of The Climate Coalition, told Environment Journal, the public remains unconvinced when it comes to Downing Street’s environmental record. Recent polling shows just 22% of the electorate believe Labour is taking appropriate steps to mitigate and slow climate change. Meanwhile, 65% have concerns about the impact of the crisis on their families and future generations.
‘The Act Now, Change Forever Mass Lobby asks politicians to step up, and to be united with their constituents by hope and determination to build something better,’ said Meech. ‘It is time for political courage and for MPs to stand with their constituents, to act for future generations, and to lead the transition to a greener, fairer, more resilient UK.
‘There are some clear signs of progress — particularly recent investment in energy efficiency, onshore wind, and nature-friendly farming — but these risk being overshadowed by serious concerns,’ she continued. ‘Nature protections risk being weakened through current planning proposals, aid cuts are undermining the UK’s credibility on the global stage and undermining commitments to international climate finance. The government must urgently course-correct to match ambition with delivery.’
Image: (C) The People’s Picture 2025 and POW
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