Eco Activist Journeys
By Léa Weimann
What if we were to radically re-think our world? What if we were to build a world based on kindness, compassion, care, and justice? Do you want to be part of the journey?
Join Léa in exploring topics of sustainability, social justice, arts, and activism. Listen to inspiring conversations with people from around the world to explore how together we can and must change the world.
Website: www.eco-activists.co.za
Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea / @ecoactivistjourneys
Facebook page: @ecoactivistjourneys
Eco Activist JourneysFeb 12, 2021
COP27 & how you can help Ecoclub from Ukraine!
This is a special episode that was recorded at the UN Conference of the Parties - COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Join me for a discussion in the Blue Zone of COP27 with Nataliya Kholodova and Julia Guziy from Ecoclub in Ukraine and their initiative bringing solar power to Ukrainian hospitals. I hope that you as listeners decide to support this important initiative - even if it is just a small donation of a cup of coffee. Furthermore, if you could help share the initiative and podcast to others and especially to businesses and any potential doners – I’m sure that would be very much appreciated.
I hope you enjoyed this episode. For me the true hope and outcomes of COP27 are the ones by the people of COP that come together and collaborate for our planet. I think this episode is a small but good example of that. If you’d like to hear any more updates from me about my experience at COP27 or any follow- up interviews with fellow youth delegates - let me know and contact me either via email or Instagram @ecoactivist.lea or @ecoactivistjourneys
Find the link to the Ecoclub website and donation page linked below: https://ecoclubrivne.org/en/solar_hospitals/
All best wishes,
Léa
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Donation page - https://ecoclubrivne.org/en/donation_hospitals/
Site - https://ecoclubrivne.org
Linkedin- https://ua.linkedin.com/company/ngo-ecoclub
Twitter- https://twitter.com/ecoclub_rivne
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Ecoclubrivne.org
Instagram: @go.ecoclub
Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea and @ecoactivist.lea
Ecocide Law, Nature Rights & the Stockholm+50 Legacy
Join me in a discussion with Jojo Mehta, executive director and co-founder of “Stop Ecocide International". We met in person for the first time in Stockholm for the Stockholm+50 United Nations Conference in June 2022.
In this episode we discuss the criminalisation of the destruction of nature and how we can safeguard our future through changing international law. Furthermore, we talk about progress on ecocide law that was made in Stockholm and how everyone can and must form part of the global narrative to change norms and laws.
I hope this episode inspires you to join the movement. Please check out the Stop Ecocide Foundation for more information and share this episode on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook or directly with friends, colleagues, and fellow concerned citizens that want to help change the world.
Take care and all best wishes,
Léa
#ecocidelaw #stockholmplus50 #naturerights #StopEcocide #JojoMehta #InternationalLaw
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Podcast Instagram: Eco-Activist Journeys Podcast (@ecoactivistjourneys) • Instagram-Fotos und -Videos
Instagram Léa: Léa Weimann (@ecoactivist.lea) • Instagram-Fotos und -Videos
My Twitter: (2) Léa Weimann (@WeimannLea) / Twitter
My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
Stop Ecocide International Webpage: Stop Ecocide International
Stop Ecocide International Instagram: Stop Ecocide International (@ecocidelaw) • Instagram-Fotos und -Videos
Fire fighting stories in a burning world & what can we all do?
Welcome to the 51st episode on Eco Activist Journeys!
Join me in a conversation with Lindon Pronto, a senior fire management expert at the European Forest Institute in Bonn, Germany, and previous wildland fire fighter in California, USA.
We talk about the current fires in Europe and around the world, Lindon's story from being a fire fighter to becoming a fire management expert, Climate Change and fire as the missing element in international law, and what we can all do in an increasingly burning world.
I hope you learn something from this episode and are inspired into action!
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
#fires #ClimateEmergency #burningworld #FiresinEurope #FireManagement #ClimateChange
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Podcast Instagram: Eco-Activist Journeys Podcast (@ecoactivistjourneys) • Instagram-Fotos und -Videos
Instagram Léa: Léa Weimann (@ecoactivist.lea) • Instagram-Fotos und -Videos
My Twitter: (2) Léa Weimann (@WeimannLea) / Twitter
My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
Lindon Pronto Twitter: (2) Lindon Pronto (@AnotherFireGuy) / Twitter
Changing Our Global Food System – A discussion with Prof Mads Fischer-Moller
Humans need water and food to survive. However, the world is increasingly entering a global food system crisis and our current agricultural system is also significantly contributing to climate change. All our contemporary crises are interlinked. This challenges us as a society to change our global food system!
This podcast episode is a discussion I had with Professor Mads Fischer-Moller who works on food policy at Scotland’s Rural College and is leader at the Future Food System Challenge Centre. Before coming to Scotland Mads worked as a civil servant in Denmark and for the Nordic Intergovernmental Cooperation on Food Policy.
In this episode we discuss a range of topics including what the biggest challenges in our current food system are, food poverty, food culture, what we can learn from the Nordic countries, Scotland’s Good Food Nation Bill, and how we can contribute to changing the global food system!
I hope you enjoy this episode and if you do - please share it and feel let me know on Instagram or Twitter.
All best wishes,
Léa
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Podcast Instagram: @ecoactivistjourneys
Instagram Léa: @ecoactivist.lea
My Twitter: @WeimannLea
My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
#SystemChange #GlobalFoodSystem #FoodCrisis #FoodPolicy #ClimateChange
What role do museums have in addressing the Climate Crisis?
Welcome to Eco Activist Journeys. My name is Léa and I am your show host. Today I invite you to join me in a discussion with Kate Wilcox, a museums professional and postgraduate museums studies student at the University of St Andrews. We discuss the topic of museums in the climate crisis, how to communicate climate change, what we can do about climate anxiety, and how we can drive societal changes from different sectors in society. I really learned a lot through this discussion about how museums can and have to play a role in these societal shifts and Kate also shared some really interesting case studies of museums and galleries that communicate climate change and use art for the planet so I hope you will tune in for the journey ….
Thank you, Kate, for your time and work.
Down below find links to some initiatives that Kate shared and her social media platforms:
- Museums Association Climate Crisis Campaign: https://www.museumsassociation.org/campaigns/climate-crisis/
- The Climate Toolkit: https://climatetoolkit.org/#focus-areas
- Professional portfolio available at: katemwilcox.com
- Instagram: @katemwilcox
- Twitter: @Kate_M_Wilcox
Podcast Instagram: @ecoactivistjourneys
Instagram Léa: @ecoactivist.lea
My Twitter: @WeimannLea
My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
#Museums #ClimateChange #SocietalChange #ExhibitionsforChange #ClimateAction #ArtforthePlanet
Can corporations do good? Corporate sustainability & campaigns for change!
Join me in a discussion with Ellie King, an undergraduate from the University of St Andrews, who led the Ecosia campaign to get the University to switch to setting Ecosia as their standard browser on computers. We start by talking about the Ecosia campaign in St Andrews and how anyone can start a campaign to create change.
Then we dive into the main topic of if corporation can do good and respond to one of my earlier podcast episodes where I talked about the myth of corporate sustainability. Furthermore, we talk about topics such as B-corporation certification, analysing the intensions of companies, greenwashing, social justice and the continuous journey to sustainability.
Hope you enjoy this conversation and let us know if you want a part II by contacting me via Instagram on @ecoactivistjourneys and/or @ecoactivist.lea
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
The COP26 Series, Ep. 3: voices & experiences of youth delegates at COP26
The COP26 has been a much anticipated conference pinned as humanity's “last best chance” to limit global warming to 1.5°C degrees and keep the ambition of the Paris Agreement alive. However, as COP26 concluded it became clear that Glasgow would not be the turning point that the world needs. Now widely regarded as a failure this throws lights on the system change we need to create real change. However, before diving deeper into those discussions – let’s explore what actually happened and how it was for youth delegates to be part of COP26.
In this episode I interview a number of youth delegates:
-Aditi Mishra, COP26 delegate for IFSA from India
-Nele Römer, COP26 delegate for IFSA from Germany
-Libby Tobey, COP26 delegate for IFSA from the US
-Benjamin Nevarro, COP26 delegate for IFSA from Chile
-Johannes Herzog, COP26 delegate for IFSA from Germany
-Montague Jones, COP26 delegate for the University of St Andrews from the US
Thank you so much to the amazing people that I met over the last few weeks and for uniting efforts for climate action. Power to the people! I hope this gives you some food for thought about the COP, integration of youth voices and the future of these conferences.
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
The COP26 Series, Ep. 2: keeping the 1.5°C goal alive, climate science, and the kind of world we want to rush towards...
Welcome to Episode 2 of the COP26 Series. Why is it critical that we keep the 1.5°C goal alive? What makes this COP in Glasgow so important? How can we create change and push for climate action? Join me in a discussion with Dr James Rae, Earth Scientist from the University of St Andrews, about the scientific importance of the international diplomatic meeting of COP26.
Hope you are inspired by this Series and please help spread the message. Let's engage people in these discussions around COP26 and climate change to raise awareness about the emergency that is is but also spread hope about the possibility that the creation of this new world entails.
Take care, stay strong, unite for climate change & be kind.
Best wishes,
Léa
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My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
My twitter: Léa Weimann (@WeimannLea) / Twitter
My Instagram: Léa Weimann (she/her) (@ecoactivist.lea) • Instagram photos and videos
James' website: James Rae (jameswbrae.com)
James' Twitter: Twitter @mudwaterclimate
The COP26 Series, Ep. 1: Climate law, the Paris Agreement, what is COP26 and why is it so important?
Welcome back to Eco-Activist Journeys. I’m finally back with a new episode and it’s the start of a new chapter in my eco activist journey. A month ago I started my masters in Global Environment and Climate Change Law at the University of Edinburgh. Furthermore, at the end of October the international UN talks on climate change are taking place in Glasgow. Thus, I am starting my podcast journey again with a series on the Conference of the Parties (COP)!
In this episode I introduce what COP26 is and also dive into some new things I learned about the Paris Agreement, international law, and also discuss key topics that leaders need to discuss at the Conference of the Parties (COP) in Glasgow including market-mechanisms for climate finance, loss and damage, agriculture, and nature-based solutions.
Hope you enjoy this episode, thanks for tuning in and please follow and support this podcast!
All best wishes,
Léa
Animal Ethics & Veganism: Interview with Dr Clair Linzey from the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics
Welcome to Eco-Activist Journeys!
In this episode I talk to Dr Clair Linzey, Deputy Director of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, and also a University of St Andrews alumna. She completed her master and PhD in theology at St Andrews.
In addition to being the Deputy Director of the Animal Ethics Centre at Oxford, she is also Director of the Annual Oxford Animal Ethics Summer School, co-editor of the Journal of Animal Ethics, and the Palgrave Macmillan Book Series on Animals Ethics. Clair has published a lot on this topic area, so I hope you enjoy our discussion ranging from animal ethics, veganism, nutrition, theology, and animal testing. Here is a link to the website of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, what they do, and more resources on the topic: Welcome - Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics (oxfordanimalethics.com)
This episode was recorded virtually in the beginning of April 2021 and first broadcast on St Andrews Radio. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the Eco-Activist Journeys podcast for more discussions about life on Earth, sustainability, and visions for the future. Furthermore, watch out for some exciting changes to the Eco-Activist Podcast…
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
My website: HOME - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea and @ecoactivistjourneys
A discussion with Climate Activist Luisa Neubauer about the Power of the Collective & Visions for the Future
This podcast episode is a recording of a live virtual event at the University of St Andrews with the German Climate Activist Luisa Neubauer that took place on the 1st of March 2021. This was probably one of the most inspiring interview conversations that I have conducted, and I hope you will enjoy, learn, and be inspired by it too.
Luisa Neubauer, born in Hamburg in 1996, is one of the co-organizers of Fridays for Future and the most prominent representative of the German movement in the media. In 2018 she met the Swedish student Greta Thunberg at the UN Climate Change Conference and then started the movement in Germany together with other activists. Since then, Luisa has met with various heads of states and governments, participated in the world climate conference in Madrid and the world economic forum in Davos.
Thank you, Luisa, for joining us virtually in St Andrews. Thank you also to Dr Louise Reid for opening the event and monitoring the questions. Furthermore, thank you to the staff at the University of St Andrews that helped organise and support this so that it could happen. Not least, thank you to you as listeners. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the Eco-Activist Journeys podcast for more discussions about life on Earth, sustainability, and visions for the future.
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
Virtual Global Climate Strike on St Andrews Radio 19th of March 2021 | Student Climate Activists from St Andrews and Keele University
On Friday the 19th of March 2021, the Fridays for Future movement organised another global climate strike. To stand in solidarity with the global action we organised an on-air climate strike discussion among student activists. I was joined in the virtual St Andrews Radio studio by Heather from the St Andrews Rector’s Committee, Francesca from my Environment Subcommittee, Juliette from Extinction Rebellion St Andrews, and Tom from XR Unis Keele University. We spoke about the importance of digital climate strikes, the impact of the pandemic, Fridays for Future, Extinction Rebellion, XR Unis, as well as the perks and difficulties of online campaigning and activism. We interacted with the buzzbox on STAR radio and shared events and climate strikes that we participated in that inspired us. We also talk about the St Andrews Line in the Sand actions in 2019 and 2020 and the power of citizens coming together to call for action. #NoMoreEmptyPromises #GlobalClimateStrike #ClimateActivists
Thank you for tuning in and supporting the climate movement. Make sure to follow Eco-Activist Journeys for more inspiring discussions on sustainability and climate action.
Best wishes,
Léa
Debunking Climate Myths with Professor Doug Benn | University of St Andrews
In this episode I talk with Professor Doug Benn from the University of St Andrews about the science behind climate change and we debunk popular climate myths around the topics of “natural” climate change, climatic variation and crucially the difference between weather and climate. We also touch on some commonly asked questions around geoengineering and climate solutions.
Thank you to Professor Doug Benn for his time and for sharing his expertise on climate science.
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the Eco-Activist Journeys podcast for more discussions about life on Earth, sustainability, and visions for the future.
Take care and best wishes,
Léa
Wellbeing, Mental Health & Sustainability
I think that this last year of living in a global pandemic has challenged all of us in some way or another and highlighted how important it is to take care of ourselves and mental wellbeing. How can we balance taking care of ourselves and our beautiful planet? How is sustainability part of wellbeing? What daily practices are there that include wellbeing and sustainability?
In this episode I talk to Emma Rose Walsh, the University of St Andrews Students’ Association Director of Wellbeing for 2020-21, and Eleanor Clyburn, who is the Sustainable Lifestyle Rep in the Environment Subcommittee as well as the Mental Health Rep of the Wellbeing Subcommittee. This is a recorded show which took place virtually on St Andrews Radio on Friday the 12th of February. We talk about sustainable lifestyle choices, tips for those who feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of environmental problems, activism empowerment, and habits for happiness.
Hope you enjoy and don’t forget to take of yourself.
Love,
Léa
Writing Climate Justice into Law
Join us in a conversation with Dr Margaretha Wewerinke Singh on the topic of writing climate justice into law. We talk about legal tool for climate justice litigation, the Paris Agreement, the Heathrow Airport Court Case in the UK, supporting indigenous communities, civil disobedience, and human rights law.
Dr Margaretha Wewerinke Singh is an Assistant Professor of Public International Law at Leiden University and an Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Environmental Law at the Pacific Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development at the University of the South Pacific. She is also an Attorney at Blue Ocean Law which is a boutique international law firm specialising in human and indigenous rights, self-determination, and environmental justice in the Pacific. Maragaretha has acted as a legal advisor to governments at international climate negotiations, represented NGOs at the UN Human Rights Council, and advised the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ Regional Office for the Pacific on human rights and climate justice.
This episode is a recording of the live online event at the University of St Andrews in collaboration with the Students' Association Environment Subcommittee, the Rector’s Committee and Amnesty St Andrews.
Sustainable Cities & Stories from Singapore
In this episode I talk to my friend Gabi Frank, a fellow University of St Andrews student, and we talk about the importance of designing sustainable cities for our future. We talk through examples of the most sustainable cities in the world and Gabi shared insights from her time in Singapore, what makes it such a sustainable city and how it approaches urban design. We also talk about conservation within cities, how to increase green spaces, and Gabi shares insights from a biology & ecology perspective.
This episode is a recording from my live STAR radio show on the 19th of November 2020. Apologies that the audio quality is not the usual standard, but virtual radio shows mean that we cannot record in the studio anymore due to the global pandemic. However, it is such an exciting topic and I really enjoyed the show with Gabi, so I hope you enjoy it too! If you do please follow the Eco-Activist Journeys podcast for more episodes.
Love,
Léa
Dear 2020 - An End of Year Reflection
Like so many of you – the end of an old year and the start of a new year are a time of reflection and goal setting for me. In this episode I am sharing a reflection that I wrote on the 31st of December 2020.
May we take the lessons of 2020 into the future.
Happy New Year 2021!
In hope,
Léa
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Background music includes snippets from the Auld Lang Syne instrumental cover by Amy Lee (2017)
Community Climate Action - In conversation with Kaska and Kathleen from PLANT
Join us for a discussion on community climate action, carbon conversations, and the community garden in Tayport, Scotland. In this episode I interview Kaska Hempel and Kathleen Grey from PLANT. We talk about the importance of community for environmental activism and standing up for change. Furthermore, we reflect on the enriching experience of volunteering, being part of a community, giving back and taking climate action in your personal life.
I hope you enjoy this episode. If you are from Tayport or Fife in general do check out the PLANT website: https://tayportgarden.org/
In addition, Kathleen also interviewed me on climate activism on PLANT Voices which you can find here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6i0qYCgo8qIMuRasFmvN6z?si=-seJfhx4TZOFlXQHX4HyzQ
Thank you for listening and if you enjoyed this episode follow Eco-Activist Journeys podcast to be notified of more episodes in the future!
Best wishes,
Léa
Ecofeminism, Social Justice, Caring for the Planet & Poetry from "Dear Earth"
Join me for a discussion on ecofeminism, social justice, caring for the planet and poetry from my debut poetry book “Dear Earth”. This is a recording from my live radio show that took place on Thursday the 15th of October 2020 on St Andrews Radio.
Social justice and environmentalism are integrally linked, and climate justice cannot be achieved without social justice. This episode explores the topic of ecofeminism to highlight the effects gender stereotypes have on climate politics and the relationship between humans and nature.
In addition, I also read two poems from my not-for profit poetry book “Dear Earth” and share some reflections on them.
Here are some more resources and links on the topics for you to explore:
My article about feminism and climate politics in Brizo Magazine: Do Women Care More About Climate Change? How Can Feminist Theories Contribute to Climate Change Politics? (brizomagazine.com)
My website and more information about my Dear Earth poetry book: Dear Earth - Eco Activists (eco-activists.co.za)
Hope you enjoy this episode of Eco-Activist Journeys!
Best wishes,
Léa
Interview with Dr Fiona Hill - University of St Andrews 2020 Rector Candidate
This interview with Dr Fiona Hill is part of a series interviewing all Rector candidates on the topic of climate justice and sustainability in St Andrews.
In this episode I speak to Dr Fiona Hill on the topic of climate justice, activism, politics, and sustainability in St Andrews. Fiona Hill originally came to St Andrews from a working-class family in Durham. Once she graduated from St Andrews, she went on to study both a Masters and PhD at Harvard University. In the United States, she has advised three Presidents, and is a world-renowned voice on foreign affairs, specifically on Russia. Furthermore, she was a witness at the 2019 Trump Impechment Trial. Despite all her achievements, Fiona has never forgotten St Andrews, from serving as head of the St Andrews American foundation, where she worked to increase and diversify the numbers of American students coming to St Andrews, to administering the University's honorary graduation address in 2019. As a rectoral candidate, Fiona wants to increase accessibility across St Andrews from facilitating communication between the administration and students, increasing interaction with alumni networks, and bolstering and advertising the Rector's Fund.
Many thanks to Fiona for taking time to do the interview with me.
If you are a student at the University of St Andrews, please take time to listen to all three interviews and make sure vote in the Rector Elections on Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th of October 2020.
Interview with Ken Cochran - University of St Andrews 2020 Rector Candidate
This interview with Ken Cochran is part of a series interviewing all Rector candidates on the topic of climate justice and sustainability in St Andrews.
In this episode I speak to Rectoral candidate Ken Cochran on the topic of climate justice and sustainability in St Andrews. Ken is a University of St Andrews alumni and was already elected twice by graduates, to the University Court, and served on ethics and research integrity, academic assurance groups and the audit committee. However, Ken resigned on principle when the University moved to disenfranchise students when they graduate. He feels that this was a violation of university ordinance which is why he sees need for reforming the University to be more open and transparent. Furthermore, Ken owns and operates four small scale solar power installations in North East Fife. He is local to St Andrews and passionate about being accessible and serving the St Andrews students.
Many thanks to Ken for taking time to do the interview with me.
If you are a student at the University of St Andrews, please take time to listen to all three interviews and make sure vote in the Rector Elections on Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th of October 2020.
Interview with Dr Leyla Hussein - University of St Andrews 2020 Rector Candidate
This interview with Dr Leyla Hussein is part of a series interviewing all Rector candidates on the topic of climate justice and sustainability in St Andrews.
In this episode I speak to Dr Leyla Hussein on the topics of climate justice, activism, mental health, and wellbeing. Dr Leyla Hussein OBE is a psychotherapist, global leader on gender rights, and lecturer. She is an award-winning international campaigner and her work has been presented at Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Exeter, and various Ivy League institutions including Columbia, Harvard, and Georgetown. She is an Advisor to the UK Department of Health and has been recognised as a key consulting expert on female genital mutilation (FGM). She is a mental health professional and passionate about creating save spaces for women and girls. Furthermore, she is part of a global network of Black women building wellbeing communities.
Many thanks to Leyla for taking time to do the interview with me.
If you are a student at the University of St Andrews, please take time to listen to all three interviews and make sure vote in the Rector Elections on Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th of October 2020.
Mental Health & Climate Activism
Let’s talk about mental health, eco-anxiety, activism and well-being. Activism and environmentalism in general can be quite mentally, physically and emotionally challenging especially in a world that fosters highly stressful environments, hustle culture and that does not value happiness and wellbeing as much as it does success, money, and possessions. We are not taught enough about mental health and emotional intelligence at school and it has become a silent pandemic that in some way or another reaches into the lives of every single one of us. I realise I have not talked openly about mental health and wellbeing that much before and I want to change that. We need to address it in all areas and especially as an activist it is important to learn to be kind to yourself and to take breaks. I still need to learn this too - so join me on the journey.
In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week, I recorded this radio show episode with my friend Ash Geraghty on Thursday the 8th of October. This is a recording of the live radio show. Please let me know if you enjoyed this episode, if it spoke to you and if there is anything specific topic that you would love to hear more about. Follow Eco-Activist Journeys, like this episode and take care.
Sending love,
Léa
Global Climate Action Day Interview with Erik Solheim | Former Executive Director of the UNEP
On Global Climate Action Day 2020, September the 25th, I hosted an interview with Erik Solheim, former executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme. Tune in to learn from an inspiring environmental leader about the challenges of global governance for sustainability, climate youth activism, the urgent need for climate action, economics, and sustainability stories from around the world!
This podcast episode is a recording of the live video interview that was conducted on the day which can also be found on the Environment Subcommittee YouTube account: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ekyvw48U-ow
If you would like to find out and participate in future online events and speakers follow the Environment Subcommittee on social media: Instagram (@standrewsenvironment), Twitter (@staenvsubcom) or Facebook (@EnvironmentSubcommitteeStAndrews). Furthermore, if you enjoyed this podcast please give it a like and follow Eco-Activist Journeys.
I hope you are inspired to take action, use your voice for climate justice and a more sustainable and kinder planet.
Bite the Doughnut – it is time to rethink our world!
Welcome to Eco-Activist Journeys. Doughnuts, economics, and sustainability – how do they all link?
Join Léa, Student Association Environment Officer at the University of St Andrews, and Noah, Editor-in-Chief of the UnEarth magazine of the Environment Subcommittee for this important discussion about our future, capitalism, system change, economic reform and the Doughnut Model invented by Rate Raworth.
This is a recording of the live radio show on St Andrews Radio (STAR) which this semester is happening every Thursday at 4-5pm BST. If you enjoy this show reach out to me on Instagram @ecoactivistjourneys and @ecoactivist.lea or the radio show Facebook page @ecoactivistjourneys.
We are all in this together. In the same boat. On the same planet. Let's stand together and fight for our future!
Our Earth. Our Home. Our Mission.
July 8, 2020
Reflections & lessons from a global pandemic
Covid-19 has changed the world and there is a lot to learn from this time and for our future.
That is why in this podcast episode I discuss some personal lessons and reflections from the last few months.
The world has changed but the question remains: what comes next? I think it is critical to reflect on these tough times and see how we can utilise the learnings to build a better, more equitable and sustainable future without further superbugs and pandemics.
I hope you enjoy this episode and please feel free to comment and share your lessons from this time on Instagram @ecoactivistjourneys or tweet me @WeimannLea
Take care and I hope to hear from you,
Léa
How is COVID-19 linked to our planetary crisis? An interview with public health specialist Prof. Dr. Edda Weimann
The current corona virus, COVID-19, has dramatically spread across the world in these last few weeks. Within days entire systems and routines have changed. Streets and airports are empty. Larger gatherings are no longer allowed. It is a time of social distancing. The crisis has taken the world by surprise despite experts warning about the spread of pandemics for many years. There is a serious lack of globalised health strategies to tackle such outbreaks.
This global pandemic did not appear out of no-where and it is time to question the norms that have led to this crisis. COVID-19 is linked to the larger planetary and climate crisis. In what way? Tune in to listen to the podcast discussion with public health specialist Prof. Dr. Edda Weimann.
Please help spread the message by sharing the podcast.
I hope you are well. Please take care of yourself and each other in these difficult times.
Love,
Léa
#covid19 #climatecrisis #publichealth #planetaryhealth #planetarycrisis #extinction #pollution #wetmarket #wuhan #wildlife #conservation #pangolin #pesticides #socialdistancing #climatecrisisvictims #ecopodcast
Can Your Health Save the World? – A radio show discussion with Kristyn Emmer-Whitaker
We can only be as healthy as our planet is. Human and planetary health are integrity connected.
Health is wealth. More than ever our current times are challenging us to reconceptualise our lives and what we value most in them. We are facing unprecedented times of crises with Climate Change, Brexit and now the global pandemic of coronavirus -19, which is completely taking over how things are functioning in the world. However, these challenging times can also be a great lesson and teacher to us in many ways.
In this live radio show on Friday the 13th of March 2020 I was joined in the St Andrews Radio studio by Kristyn Emmer-Whitaker a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach who is passionate about health and wellbeing, soil and sustainability. She is also the Uni Hall Warden which is how I got to know her in September 2019. Tune in to listen to our discussion and learn about health, wellbeing, our human connection to the Earth, the importance of soil health and regenerative agriculture. I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and that it fills you with positive energy.
Be kind to yourself, to each other and our planet in these difficult times.
Love,
Léa
How can we utilise economic tools to combat climate change? A discussion with Professor Felix FitzRoy | University of St Andrews
While GDP continues to grow social welfare is declining. The rich are getting richer. The poor are getting poorer. Mental illnesses are on the rise. Being “stressed” is a new norm. Our planet is being exploited and destroyed for economic growth. We are in a time of Climate Crisis. What does that mean for our economic system and how can we actually utilise economic tools to combat climate change? How is climate change an opportunity for economic transformation? Why is a carbon tax so important? Can and should we still “growth” in a world of Climate Emergency?
This podcast episode is a live on-air radio show discussion with Professor Felix FitzRoy, co-author of “An Introduction to Climate Change Economics and Policy” and Professor Emeritus of Economics in the School of Economics and Finance at the University of St Andrews.
Climate Change is the largest threat humanity has ever faced but it is also our greatest opportunity for global systems change. One Earth. One Home. One mission.
Hope you enjoy this episode and thank you for listening.
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Website: http://eco-activists.co.za/
Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea
YouTube: Léa Weimann
Twitter: @WeimannLea
Corporate sustainability and creating change - Interview with Dr Biliouri-Grant
Hope you enjoy the podcast. Connect with me via Instagram @ecoactivist.lea
Love,
Léa
Interview with Greenpeace Canada’s co-chair Dr Anna Crawford
Thank you for tuning in and I hope you enjoy this podcast episode on Eco-Activist Journeys. Tune in Fridays from 3-4pm on St Andrews radio to contribute to the live discussion.
My website: eco-activists.co.za/?page_id=598
Radio show with Sir Ian Boyd discussing the Climate Emergency and the University of St Andrews’ new Environmental Sustainability Board
This podcast episode is a recording of the live radio show on Friday the 7th of February 2020 on St Andrews Radio with Sir Ian Boyd. Sir Ian is the former Chief Scientific Advisor at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the UK. He helped establish the Scottish Oceans Institute and is now back in St Andrews and will head the University of St Andrews’ new Environmental Sustainability Board. During the radio interview we discussed Sir Ian’s environmental journey, his route to politics, the workings of climate and environmental policy, the urgency for action in a Climate Emergency and the mission of the new Environmental Sustainability Board.
Many thanks to Sir Ian for such an interesting and inspiring discussion and for joining me on “Eco-Activist Journeys”. Thank you also to all the listeners who joined the live show. My radio show will continue running Fridays from 3-4pm during this semester so tune in via St Andrews Radio (STAR) to contribute to the live discussions and shape debates on sustainability and climate politics.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, that is the only thing that ever has." - M. Mead
Arts & Activism: Announcing the release of my poetry book ”Dear Earth”
Just before Christmas 2019 I announced on my radio show Eco-Activist Journeys that I am publishing a poetry book called “Dear Earth”. This episode is a recording from the radio show where I announced the book release and explained a bit more about my book, poetry and the importance of art and creativity in activism. My friend Luis Koester, who is also part of the Environment Subcommittee and Inklight, the creative writing society in St Andrews, joined me for the show and read some of his poetry too. It was an inspiring and special afternoon so I hope you shall enjoy this podcast episode.
“Dear Earth” is a not-for profit book and all profits go to environmental charities supporting the protection of the Amazon rainforest. Find more information about the book on my website: http://eco-activists.co.za/?page_id=598
It is also available for order on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/3000644156
#artandactivism #culturedeclaresemergency #dearearth #letterstoearth #ecoactivist
The Myth of Corporate Social Responsibility and the case of the Andi Coal Mine Project in Australia
It's devastating to hear the news about the fires in Australia and the ways Climate Change is already having an impact on animals and humans. However, what is even more frustrating to hear is that companies like Siemens continue to participate in coal mining projects in the region despite calls from activists and youth around the world crying out to respect our future and our planet. It seems that industrial change will only come if it hurts financially and not through any sense of responsibility. Is corporate social responsibility a myth? It is merely a marketing tool? Why do profits continue to be placed over morals? In May 2019 I recorded a podcast about this just before my Sustainable Development exam and I think now the time is right to post it. Why are corporations so important to include in sustainable development? Why is it that they are not responding to activist calls? This podcast discusses these topics further to explore why so little action is taken and about what needs to be done.
#ecopodcast #corporatesocialresponsibility #protectthepublicnotindustry #Andi #Siemens #australiafires #sustainability #boycottsiemens #peoplepower #youthactivism
Friday the 29th of November: St Andrews Global Climate Strike & Fashion Revolution
The 29th of November 2019 marked the day of the 4th global climate strike in 2019. Co-incidentally it also coincided with Black Friday - a day of heightened consumerism. That is why this podcast discusses the St Andrews Climate Strike and Fashion Revolution to challenge to norms of today for a better tomorrow. World leaders: we are watching. The winds of change are blowing…
For the live radio show on St Andrews Radio (STAR) I was joined by two students from Bell Baxter High School Rebecca McQueen and Sophie Gent as well as Emma Saisi and Kathleen Pitches from Fashion Revolution St Andrews. We discussed the St Andrews Climate Strike that morning, activism, consumerism, fast fashion, standing up for climate justice, hope and the start of a new revolution and a new Earth.
#globalclimatestrike #greenfriday #takebackblackfriday #standrews #climateactivists #ecopodcast #anewearth #windsofchange #nevergiveup #climatestrike #climatejustice #voicesofthefuture #ecoactivists
What role do faith communities and churches play in the Climate Crisis?
This podcast episode is a recording from the live radio show discussion with the University of St. Andrews Chaplain Rev. Donald MacEwan on Friday the 8th of November 2019. We discussed the need for increased climate action, why a stronger involvement of churches and faith communities is needed in the Climate Crisis, why there has been a lack thereof and what can be done to foster action and involvement in environmentalism. Tune in for a discussion on hope, crisis and climate action.
Many thanks to Donald MacEwan for joining me on my radio show and for his support of climate action in St Andrews.
"The biggest political issue that we face today" - A discussion on climate politics with MP Stephen Gethins
On Friday the 1st of November 2019 MP Stephen Gethins joined me for a radio show on STAR: St Andrews Radio to discuss climate action and politics. We discussed climate politics in Scotland and the UK, climate goals and targets, the climate strikes, Extinction Rebellion, Citizens Assemblies and creating societal change. This podcast episode is a recording of the live show and I would like to thank Stephen Gethins for joining me and for his support of climate action and activism.
Discussing the Climate Crisis, Human Rights and the Kenly Windfarm with Amnesty St Andrews - STAR podcast recording
This podcast episode from Friday the 11th of October 2019 is a discussion with Amnesty St Andrews’ President Catherine Bentley about the Climate Emergency, human rights and climate action. The questions we addressed in the radio show include:
-How do human rights and climate change intersect?
-What is Amnesty doing to address the Climate Emergency?
-What can we do in St Andrews?
-What is the Kenly Windfarm petition about?
I hope this can inspire you to get involved in activism and to use the tools that you have to create change. Please also sign and support our Kenly Windfarm petition to power the University of St Andrews on renewables and leave a positive legacy for the future: https://www.change.org/p/university-of-st-andrews-the-university-of-st-andrews-must-begin-the-construction-of-the-kenly-wind-farm?recruiter=1011887513&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink&utm_campaign=share_petition
Climate Action St Andrews and Line in the Sand - STAR Radio Podcast
Whose future? - Our future. Let's keep the momentum going and continuing pushing for climate action!
On the 20th of September 2019, a day of global climate strikes, citizens, students and children of St Andrews came together to form a line in the sand for climate change of 1.200 people. This podcast recording is a discussion about the Climate Action St Andrews group, the global climate strikes and the need to keep the momentum going.
I was joined in the radio studio for a live show on STAR by my friend and fellow climate activist Bethany Carol on Friday the 4th of October 2019. Our message to you is - keep that passion for our future bottled up inside of you and don’t give up. Get involved. Use your voice. Make a difference.
How to reduce your plastic waste - an interview with “Less Waste Laura”
Single use plastics require massive amounts of energy for a very short and undervalued usage. It is also leading to the pollution of our landscapes and oceans. We can all play a part in reducing the amount of pollution and demand change in the packaging industry. Our choices impact the world in more ways than we often like to admit especially if we decide to go against the norm and do things differently. You never know who you might inspire to consider a different route...
This podcast is a short episode with Laura Young on the topic of zero waste, how to start reducing your waste and common questions in the plastic debate. Check out her blog (https://www.lesswastelaura.com/) and Instagram @lesswastelaura for more tips and information on reducing single-use plastics and implementing sustainable lifestyle choices.
I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and thank you for tuning in.
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My webpage: http://eco-activists.co.za/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecoactivist.lea/
This is an Emergency and it's not a drill! Join the Rebellion...
We are standing at the wake of a new era. A time that will fundamentally decide the future of life on Earth. Our future.
What can we do that is in alignment with the statement of a “Climate Emergency”? We are watching our planet burn, be exploited and abused and then people sit and talk about what we can do within the next 10, 20 or 30 years to slowly cease the fire. But that fire will keep burning, it will engulf more and more land every minute that we wait. In my opinion that is a very strange concept of Emergency that leaders are showing. There need to be more concrete goals about what needs to be achieved today, tomorrow, next week, next month and next year.
This Earth cannot sustain us any longer in a system built for greed, profit, consumerism and where economic interest trump any consideration or justice for the humans that live on this planet and those who will carry the biggest consequences of the Climate Crisis.
We need to show that we care and that we are prepared to do everything that it takes to push for climate action and the protection of our planet and future. We need to stand strong for climate justice.
Is peaceful civil disobedience the only way forward? What can we do to push for action right now?
Nature Deficit Disorder and its consequences: Why is nature connectedness so important for conservation efforts and human wellbeing?
In our modern world spending time outside has become less common. Children are spending increasingly more time inside and in front of screens rather than outside. This is leading to a phenomenon known as “Nature Deficit Disorder”. It describes a condition of an increased disconnect between the natural world and humans due to the fact that less time is spend outside. This also has consequences for conservation. We do not care for something that we do not love and value but how can we value nature if we spend less and less time outside?
Hence, spending time outside and instilling a greater sense of nature connectedness has become crucial if we want to live on a habitable and healthy planet. Spending time outside also has a very important part to play in both mental and physical health. So, let’s reconnect with our roots, spend time outside and find out what this world can teach us when we are prepared to listen.
For more information check out my website: www.eco-activists.co.za
Instagram: @ecoactivists.lea and @ecoactivistjourneys
#ecoactivist #climateactivist #naturedeficitdisorder #natureconnectedness #natureconservation
The importance of emotional intelligence and reflexivity in activism:
Emotions are important drivers of change and play a key role in environmental activism. However, activism burnout is also very common and can stop action and commitment to a cause. Change takes time and determination. For some people not seeing immediate change is very frustrating and leads to them losing hope, denying that any change can still happen and even giving up.
We need to create spaces to address our emotions and realise how we can create regenerative times and a sense of community within causes. As a society we need to look at activism in a new way. A way to bring purpose into our lives. When looking at history there are some amazing examples of societal change and this should give us hope and determination for societal change today. Personally, activism has brought to much purpose and mission into my life. It has changed my entire world view and transformed my life.
We need to break down ontological division between activist and non-activist. Deep down we all are passionate about something. In that way maybe we are all activists. This is a critical point in our time on Earth, and we must rise to the challenge of Climate Emergency on our little planet. There is no planet B.
#ecoactivist #climateactivist #ourhomeourmission #planetearth #ecopodcast #emotionalreflexivity #emotionalreflexivity #emotionalintelligence #noplanetb
For more eco-conscious tips and ways to become active check out my website: www.eco-activists.co.za
Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea
My eco-activist story and journey: how did it start?
This episode is a podcast recording from the 27th of April 2019 which was my last radio show for the semester on St Andrews student radio. I talked about what "eco-activism" means to me and what got me started talking about climate justice and environmentalism.
My activism started back in 2014 when I was about 15/ 16 years old and in this episode I reflect on my journey and the strength it takes to stand up for what is right rather than what is easy. We are currently in hopeful times where it has become a lot more acceptable and easy to speak up for climate justice so let us use this unique window opportunity in history to push for climate action!
Sorry for the delayed upload and I promise my next episode will be up soon! Thank you for listening.
Best wishes, Léa
My website: www.eco-activists.co.za
Instagram: @ecoactivistjourneys
Fashion Revolution Week 2019: how can we revolutionise the fashion industry and why do we need to?
Did you know that the fashion industry is the second biggest polluter of fresh water on Earth?
It is estimated that around 80 billion items of clothing are delivered out of factories worldwide. Clothing consumption results in 1.5 billion tonnes of C02 emissions per household each year which is equivalent of driving 6000 cars. Yet, 95% of clothing that is discarded could be recycled or upcycled.
It is clear that we need a fashion revolution. A new way of seeing, consuming and producing clothes in a way that respects both the workers that make clothes and the environment. We are the ambassadors of our clothes, so it is important to know the story behind the clothes we wear and the true cost of them to both the workers and the environment.
This is a podcast recording from my live radio show on Saturday the 20th of April. Feel free to check out my Facebook page @ecoactivistjourneys and tune in via St Andrews radio to listen to my full show on Saturdays between 3-4pm (UK time).
Remember every day is Earth Day. I hope you learnt something new and this podcast could inspire you to take action, use your voice and speak to others about it as well.
Love, Lea
Do women "care more" about climate change? How does feminism relate to climate change politics?
This is a recorded podcast from my live radio show on St Andrews Radio (STAR) which takes place every Saturday from 3-4pm during term time.
In this episode on Saturday the 13th of April 2019 I discussed the topic of climate change politics and feminism addressing some of the following questions:
-Why is it that there seem to be more female climate activists?
-Do women care more about climate change?
-How can feminist theories help us understand political outcomes and dominant societal structures?
-What can be done to challenge norms and push for climate action?
Furthermore, I also talk about the global climate strikes including the St Andrews climate strike and the Extinction Rebellion strikes.
If you want to tune into live shows and contribute to the discussion please tune into STAR radio and check out my Facebook page: @ecoactivistjourneys
Hope you enjoy and get inspired to use your voice and make a difference.
Global Climate Youth Movement - podcast recording from the 6th of April 2019
With Climate Change we are standing at a tipping point of Earth’s history and yet many still do not recognise the severity of the situation. Even though it has been known for over 50 years that humans are doing considerable damage to the Earth and environment no significant change has been implemented by governments and the international community. As young people, who are working hard for our future it is very alarming to see that future crumbling beneath our feat. That is why we are left with no option but to try get our voices heard through protest, demonstrations and strikes.
For that reason, together with fellow passionate students we formed the “Climate Action St Andrews” group to mobilise action for climate change and unite school children and student from around Fife to join us. We are not staying silent any longer. Along with people from around the world we will act and protest as long as it takes to implement real change for climate action. All over the world people are rising in the name of climate action and we stand in solidarity together with them.
This podcast is an edited recording of my live radio show on STAR on the 6th of April 2019. I discussed the global climate movements, Youth strikes, Extinction Rebellion and the upcoming global climate strikes. Furthermore, I also address criticism about the strikes and what my response is to those. This is our future and we have a right to stand up for it. Join the movement!
"This is a Climate Emergency!" - St Andrews Climate Demonstration and Voices of the Future
As young people, we are told to work and study hard for our future, but with Climate Change progressing the question arises: what does that future look like? According to the International Panel on Climate Change, we have 11 years left to tackle Climate Change. 11 years that will decide the fate of our planet. 11 years that will decide our future. We were born into a world threatened by environmental destruction. For decades scientists have been speaking up and for decades politicians have been negotiating. Yet, nothing substantial has been done!
St Andrews might just be a small town and we might not be able to gather a crowd as big as a city, but we still want to demonstrate how much we care. Together with cities and towns from around the world, we joined the Youth Climate Strikes inspired by Greta Thunberg on Friday the 15th of March.
Our future is in danger and we have a right to stand up for it.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the St Andrews Climate Action Strike on Friday the 15th of March 2019 and who spoke up for their future. This is only the beginning. Stay strong and join the global movement. Let's make history together.
Our Earth. Our Home. Our Mission.
Love,
Léa
My Vegan Story + vegan ice cream taste test
This is a special episode of me taste tasting vegan ice cream and talking about why and how I went vegan!
Over two years ago I decided to go vegan and it has been one of the best decisions ever. In this episode I discuss environmental, ethical and health reasons for going vegan and explain why I think it is such an important lifestyle change that can make such a massive difference.
I hope you enjoy it and feel free to contact me if you have any questions (Instagram: @ecoactivist.lea and Facebook page: @ecoactivistjourneys).
Sending positive vibes and hope you are having a beautiful day. Take care.
Léa