Why we are all climate camp followers now (a few cuts from a positive Times article about recent UK climate camp.... There the attitude is changing, and in the dear old "green isle"..hhhhmmmm)
My, how the green movement has changed. Of course, they have always been less barking than the animal rights brigade, but judging by these well-spoken climate campers, the modern eco-activist is now so socially acceptable that he is just one spritz of deodorant from becoming mainstream.
From Scotland, Cornwall, Newcastle upon Tyne and Manchester they came to pitch tents and join the leaderless utopia, to run activism workshops, swap tips on compost toilets and moan about capitalism. Nobody is drunk or getting stoned. They wash up, erect wind turbines and play impromptu games of footie. The vibe is far more Famous Five than Guildford Four.
Like most of us these days, the residents of Blackheath are inclined to dig the campers’ cause, if not their crusty politics. Whether it is middle-class tokenism (reusing a Waitrose carrier bag) or more aggressive solutions (the solar-panel market is booming), the public mood has changed.
Various campers are happy to share their views. “We have no leaders, no bosses, no hierarchy,” says Richard, 23, a recent Cambridge graduate. “We operate by consensus. This is not just a protest, with people marching and saying ‘No!’. This is our chance to say ‘Yes’ by demonstrating what sustainable living looks like.”
On the way to the Tube, a young banker who clearly started his bank holiday drinking early, grabs the megaphone from an activist and addresses the campers.
“I love you guys!” he tells the crowd.
“And we love you!” they shout back.