Extinction Rebellion (XR) groups across the UK are gearing up for a summer of impactful and defiant action. With a focus on targets such as insurance companies and private jets, XR is determined to make their voices heard in the face of climate inaction.
As the UK experiences its warmest spring on record and driest in over 50 years, XR is taking a stand against politicians who support airport expansion and weaken environmental laws. The group is planning a series of creative and bold actions throughout the country, calling on individuals to join in a season of unity, community, and rebellion.
One of the key campaigns XR will be focusing on is Insure Our Survival, which will see a week of action in July targeting insurance companies that support fossil fuel projects. With 20 companies insuring 70% of these projects, many of which are based in the City of London, XR activists are urging insurers to completely divest from the oil, gas, and coal industries. The campaign has already seen success, with insurance giant Zurich halting coverage of new oil and gas projects.
In addition to targeting insurance companies, XR will also be taking a stand against private jets by marching to Oxford Airport in July. The airport, which hosts over thirty private aircraft and helicopters for charter, has drawn the ire of XR activists who are calling for a ban on these environmentally damaging modes of transport.
XR is also planning a week of action in July to highlight the impact of rising temperatures on workers. As part of the Heatstrike campaign, XRUK is advocating for a national maximum working temperature of 30°C (27°C for strenuous work) and a heatwave furlough scheme for when this limit cannot be met.
Furthermore, activists in Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole will be hosting a ‘funeral for nature’ on 27 July to mourn the loss of the natural world. Participants will don black attire and walk in silence accompanied by drumming, symbolizing the devastating effects of climate change on our environment.
As XR gears up for a summer of action, individuals are encouraged to find a protest, block time in their calendars, and join in the movement for a sustainable future. With a focus on unity, community, and rebellion, XR is determined to make their voices heard and push for meaningful change in the fight against climate change.
This article was written by Catherine Early, a freelance environmental journalist and chief reporter for The Ecologist. Connect with her on Bluesky @catearly.bsky.social.
