As we reflect on 2024, it's inspiring to see how the European Branch of the Climate Reality Project has thrived. "2024 was definitely a year of connection," says Jessica. "The Branch was able to gather with its dedicated National Volunteer Coordinators, have a Climate Reality meet-up at the ChangeNOW Conference in Paris, discuss the 2025 strategy in Vienna and - of course - create a space for 1000 people to inspire each other and take action during the Rome Training in June."
Each initiative this year went beyond raising awareness; it was about empowering individuals to become informed advocates and agents of change in their communities. Our training events, particularly the Rome Training, and various local projects have significantly strengthened our community and catalyzed essential discussions and actions.
From the left: Rome Training photo with Al Gore | CRL Meet-up at COP29 in Baku | Europe CRLs meet-up at ChangeNOW conference in Paris
Training (Climate Reality) Leaders for tomorrow
The Rome Training was a standout event for us, welcoming nearly 1,000 new Climate Reality Leaders to our network. It was deeply fulfilling to see so many eager faces ready to join our cause and participate in action moments, including sending 638 letters to newly elected Members of the European Parliament. Klara, Finance Campaigner who recently joined our team, shared her excitement:
"I think we can all agree that the Rome Training was the highlight of the year. Since I’ve just joined Climate Reality this year, I was grateful to meet so many Climate Reality Leaders in person right away. What an astonishing event!"
From the left: Rome Training photo action in front of Eni HQ | Rome Training photo with Al Gore | Mentors discussions with participants of the Rome Training
Putting spotlight on climate justice
In October, our Climate Justice Training connected 100 participants from diverse backgrounds, all eager to make a difference. They put forward 60 project proposals, tackling issues from ensuring inclusivity in climate advocacy to enhancing awareness among marginalized communities. Jessica, our Program & Engagement Manager, who led the training, shares a few words about it:
Personally, I was happy to organize my passion project again - the annual virtual climate justice training - in October, and connect like-minded individuals who truly care about justice and human rights. The support and dedication of our new host organization Urgewald played a vital role in our successful events and campaigns, and I am looking forward to driving impact together in the future.
Joining forces for climate action
This year, our work with Urgewald has significantly strengthened our approach to combating fossil fuel financing. Urgewald’s extensive 30-year expertise has given us crucial insights into how financial systems support fossil fuel projects and what levers we can pull to disrupt these flows. Focusing on these financial ties allows us to target the core of the issue, setting the stage for more systemic change in the future.
Moreover, we’ve cultivated meaningful relationships with several key organizations, including Legambiente, Climate KIC, and ChangeNOW. These collaborations have broadened our reach and enhanced our initiatives, bringing new ideas and opportunities to the table that align perfectly with our goals. These partnerships help us tap into a wider network of knowledge and activism, vital for our continued influence in climate advocacy.
Empowering local communities
In 2024, Climate Reality Leaders, supported by our branch, led several key projects focused on climate education and decarbonization. Notable initiatives included the publication of "The Roots of the Future," a book exploring just transitions in Poland, and workshops in Kosovo aimed at educating journalists on just transition concepts.
Additionally, we supported the continuation of Reggio Emilia's community festival to enhance local energy solutions and backed efforts to establish an energy community in Milan. In the UK, CRLs actively participated in the "Stop Rosebank" campaign, rallying support against the new oil field development. Meanwhile, CRLs in France have greatly supported the process of developing and promoting our upcoming training in Paris (March 2025).
The UK "Ten to a Million" project also equipped Climate Reality Leaders to deliver impactful "Truth in 10" presentations, simplifying complex climate issues for community and policy-maker engagement. These projects underscore the significant role of local leadership in driving global climate advocacy.
From the left: Mural about just transition in Kosovo | UK Coordinator Versha Jones during Rosebank protest | CRL meet-up in Switzerland
Advocating on a global scale
At COP29 in Baku, our team actively participated in key discussions, working directly with policymakers and stakeholders to advocate for more robust commitments and clearer climate finance mechanisms. A highlight of our involvement was the "PAY UP" campaign, which successfully captured global media attention and emphasized the critical need for developed nations to honor their financial commitments to climate action. This direct engagement at COP29 helped to push the conversation forward on these essential issues.
From the left: Climate Reality Branch Managers meet-up with Al Gore | Pay UP photo action at Baku Stadium | CAN Europe press conference during COP29
Looking forward to 2025
The upcoming Paris Training in March, the first step of the upcoming Climate Ambition Tour, is set to be another energizing event. We are thrilled about the potential it holds to galvanize even more leaders into action and set the stage for impactful activities leading up to COP30 in Brazil.
This year has been nothing short of transformative for us. We've not just grown in numbers but in the depth of our connections and the breadth of our impact. As we move into 2025, we carry with us the lessons learned, the friendships made, and a commitment to drive even greater change. Here’s to another year of leading passionately, inspiring change, and building a sustainable future together!
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