System change Put people and planet first

The facade of the Royal Courts of Justice

The social, political and economic systems we live under impact every aspect of our lives. For centuries, these systems have fuelled the climate and ecological crisis and entrenched injustice and inequality.

We need to use the tools at our disposal to change systems so they benefit both people and planet.

That means understanding our democratic right to challenge decisions that affect our local community. Protesting deals that put our environment at risk. And lobbying our government to act in the best interest of people and planet. 

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Get involved in the planning system

We all know that voting in local and national elections is a key way to influence what happens in your local area. But elections only fall every few years.

How can you influence decisions the rest of the time?

Our guide explains how to influence decisions in your area, from requesting information from your local and national decision-makers, to objecting to new building developments in your community.

Know your rights
Large group of people in hall cheering at outcome of Nant Llesg coalmine planning decision

Anti-racism

Fighting injustice is key to solving the climate and nature crisis. Everyone must have a say – particularly those most impacted. 

So the mainstream environmental movement needs do better at listening to and supporting communities on the front lines of injustice. And we need to stand alongside other movements challenging oppression and exploitation to build a better future together. That’s why Friends of the Earth is an actively anti-racist organisation.

Learn about our anti-racism work
A man speaks into a microphone on a stage in front of a crowd. A couple of people are filming on their phones. Behind him there is a large banner that reads "Stand Up to Racism"

Your questions answered

The backs of two police men on horses, with London scenery in the background where we can see a waving British flag on an old building and people in face masks.
Can we still protest?
Despite strong opposition from across civil society, and weeks of back-and-forth in parliament, most of the government’s anti-protest measures have made it into the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act. Find out what this means for the future of protest.
Can we still protest?
Despite strong opposition from across civil society, and weeks of back-and-forth in parliament, most of the government’s anti-protest measures have made it into the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act. Find out what this means for the future of protest.
A group of climate protesters of different ages and ethnicities standing outside the Royal Courts of Justice with placards reading "Stop funding gas in Mozambique"
How do our court cases work?
In July 2022 Friends of the Earth secured a court victory against the UK government over its economy-wide climate strategy. But what happens in a climate court case? Lawyer Will Rundle gives us a sneak peek behind the scenes.
How do our court cases work?
In July 2022 Friends of the Earth secured a court victory against the UK government over its economy-wide climate strategy. But what happens in a climate court case? Lawyer Will Rundle gives us a sneak peek behind the scenes.