Fuel For Thought
Fuel For Thought, from fuel poverty to climate justice
Because we’ve had enough of being told that it’s our own fault for being poor, cold, and miserable, we have Fuel For Thought, a monthly get-together to share research and lived experience, tackle lies and clear up confusion.
Each month, we bring our members and supporters together with experts, activists, and campaigners in one online space to discuss and share stories on a subject related to our mission. It’s our approach to putting our network, its collective knowledge, and people power in your hands. And, it starts with promoting the thoughts, reflections, and demands of people in fuel poverty.
Next event
Mining, Militarism and Renewable Energy
January 22, 6.30pm
🗓️ Thursday, 22nd January
⏰ 6.30PM GMT
🌐 Online, RSVP for the link
The world-over, a shift away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy is underway. While far from perfect, solar fields and wind farms represent a milestone improvement to keep warm for less, compared to earth-destroying fossil-fuels. One way, in which the transition falls far short of expectations however, is that mining the resources is inseparable from the deadly forces of the military, war, and weaponry.
Still today, obtaining the metals and minerals for our much-needed transition follows a historical pattern of control over land and people imposed by threat, or use, of deadly force. The recent attack on Venezuela and kidnapping of its head of state, is a stark reminder of the inherent role of the military in obtaining valuable resources, no matter the cost. This relationship extends across history, the world, and runs much deeper than televised operations.
With a focus on renewable energy, this political education session will delve into the close relationship between the shift to renewable energy, war, and the military. Including, the interdependence of mining and military to-date, their continued role in climate and environmental destruction, and the place of nuclear energy. And why, doing away with the military is central to achieving truly clean and affordable energy that’s under the control of people and communities.
How do we get there? Join our online discussion to find out.
Confirmed speakers include:
Daniel Selwyn | Researcher and educator with the London Mining Network. Daniel’s research focuses on the intersections between resource extraction, the arms trade and British Imperialism
Lorah Steichen | Global Systems and Policy Manager at the Climate and Community Institute (CCI). Lorah leads research and strategy development on international financial systems, militarism, and global industrial policy.Dr. Phillip Johnstone | Visiting Professor University of Tartu, Postdoctoral researcher University of Utrecht, Visiting Research Fellow, University of Sussex. Philip has a background in Human Geography and Science and Technology Studies interested in the political and democratic implications of sociotechnical change and innovation.
Dr. Phillip Johnstone | Visiting Professor University of Tartu, Postdoctoral researcher University of Utrecht, Visiting Research Fellow, University of Sussex. Philip has a background in Human Geography and Science and Technology Studies interested in the political and democratic implications of sociotechnical change and innovation.
And add Fuel For Thought to your Google calendar using the following link: https://tinyurl.com/27s3nvr2
Take part
If you have a story to tell, an idea for a future Fuel For Thought, some research, or a campaign you’d like to share – we’d love to hear from you.
You can also put someone forward to speak, or help promote our sessions, so we can grow our network and reach new people in need of reliable information to fight back against fuel poverty.
As a member of Fuel Poverty Action, you could even guest-host a session on a subject you’re passionate about.
Whatever fuels your thoughts, reach out to amalric@fuelpovertyaction.org.uk and get those ideas flowing. And if you’ve joined a session before, please let us know your impressions through our feedback form.
Check out some of our past sessions for inspiration.
Visit the Fuel For Thought playlist on Youtube to watch more sessions.
