PAC dimension 2: what groups and campaigns already exist?

In the previous step, you identified the changes and actions that feel most urgent, meaningful, or exciting to you in your context.

But many of the most important changes are things you can’t change on our own. Joining together with others makes our actions more impactful and more fun.

In this video author and long-term climate activist Bill McKibben highlights the importance of joining with others in our efforts to tackle the climate crisis.

Researching groups and campaigns in your context

Research what groups or campaigns already exist in your context and add them to dimension 2 of your PAC. These could be:

• Local climate advocacy organisations.
• Campaigns focused on specific issues like public transportation, renewable energy or shifting to climate-friendly stoves that minimise indoor air pollution.
• Grassroots movements resisting high-emissions infrastructure or promoting broader societal changes.
• Urban gardening or permaculture groups, food cooperatives or community-owned renewable energy.
• Student or workplace initiatives.

You might find it helpful to use your roadmap and story to align these groups and campaigns with the visions you have set out for the future.

Tips for your research

• Start local: Look for groups in your city, neighbourhood or workplace.
• Use online tools: Search social media platforms, community forums or search engines.
• Ask around: Friends, family or colleagues may know about local initiatives. Asking them can also create opportunities for taking action together with people you already know, which often makes it easier and more fun.
• Think broadly: Look for groups addressing your selected changes, even if they’re not explicitly labelled as climate-focused. For example, bike advocacy groups, food co-operatives, or groups working for clean air zones in cities.
• Consider scale: Some campaigns may operate at the local level, while others may be national or global but still relevant to your context.

Add to your Personal Action Compass

As you find relevant groups and campaigns, add them to the second dimension of your PAC ‘What groups and campaigns already exist?’. Note which ones inspire or excite you the most and consider why they resonate with you.

Share your thoughts

Thinking about the groups or campaigns you’ve found, consider your responses to the following questions:

• Which ones do you find the most exciting, inspiring or important?
• Can you imagine joining one of these groups or campaigns?
• If you haven’t found the right group to suit your interests and context, could you imagine starting one yourself?

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