What you can do to bring about changes in the energy sector

In the previous step, you explored how different energy sources vary in their emissions and impacts, as well as the changes needed to address current energy challenges.

Now let’s look at some inspiring actions, campaigns and initiatives already driving the transition to a sustainable and just energy system. From grassroots community projects to international movements, these examples showcase how individuals and groups can help transform energy systems.

As you read, consider:

• Which actions resonate most with you and why?
• Could you see yourself or your community engaging with these initiatives?
• What other ideas do these examples inspire for your local context?

Community energy projects

Energy communities empower groups of people to collectively participate in clean energy initiatives. These groups, often made up of local residents, work together to produce and consume renewable energy. Community energy projects democratise energy systems, enabling citizens to lead local transitions while benefiting from lower energy costs, reduced energy poverty and new green job opportunities. Such initiatives are flourishing worldwide, showing that collective action can deliver tangible benefits for both people and the planet.

Blockadia

The term ‘Blockadia’ refers to grassroots resistance movements where communities come together to block fossil fuel extraction or infrastructure projects. These actions aim to prevent harmful projects like coal mines, pipelines or fracking sites. A famous example is the resistance to the Keystone XL pipeline in the United States, which was ultimately cancelled after sustained protests by Indigenous communities, environmentalists and landowners. Similarly, in Canada, the Wet’suwet’en resistance against the Coastal GasLink pipeline has become a symbol of Indigenous-led environmental advocacy. In North America alone, Indigenous resistance has been resisting fossil fuel projects amounting to around one quarter of North American emissions (IEN, 2021). 

The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty

Lawsuits are emerging as a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. In 2021, a Dutch court ruled that Shell must reduce its carbon emissions by 45% by 2030, marking a landmark victory for climate justice. This case, brought by environmental groups and citizens, demonstrates how legal action can hold corporations accountable for their contributions to the climate crisis. Other examples include youth-led lawsuits against governments for failing to act on climate change. One instance is Juliana v. United States (947 F.3d 1159 (9th Cir. 2020)), which although unsuccessful, got significant media coverage, set legal precedents, and empowered youth climate activism globally.

Low-tech solutions

Low-tech solutions combine traditional knowledge with modern materials to create accessible technologies that require fewer resources and less energy. Low-Tech Magazine, for example, shares practical ideas like solar-powered water heaters, hand-powered washing machines and DIY wind turbines (De Decker, 2019, 2021). These solutions are particularly valuable for communities with limited access to high-tech infrastructure.

Campaigning for national policy action

National-level protests and campaigns play a crucial role in demanding systemic changes. Groups like Extinction Rebellion (XR) and Just Stop Oil organise high-profile demonstrations to push governments to end fossil fuel subsidies, ban new fossil fuel projects, and accelerate the transition to renewables. These campaigns are often disruptive, aiming to draw attention to the urgency of the climate crisis. For example, XR’s ‘Rebellion Weeks’ have sparked debates and policy changes in several countries, highlighting the power of collective action in influencing national policies.

Fossil fuel divestment movement

The fossil fuel divestment movement works to end institutional investments in fossil fuel companies. Starting on American university campuses in 2011, this movement has become a global network pushing organisations to divest from fossil fuels and reinvest in renewable energy and community resilience. Divestment campaigns empower individuals and communities to challenge the financial foundations of the fossil fuel industry.

Have your say 

Thinking about these actions and initiatives to bring about change in the energy sector, consider the following questions:

• Which actions appeal more to you?
• Do you see yourself or your community taking action in similar ways?
• Can you think about different ways of contributing to transform energy systems?

Share and discuss your responses with other learners in the Comments section.