Climate crisis: Zack Polanski delivers “reality check” to prime minister Andy Burnham

On Wednesday 5th August, Green Party leader Zack Polanski got together with experts and workers, including presenter Chris Packham, to give a press conference described as a “reality check” for the Prime Minister. You can view the full press conference above.

From the Green Party national website:

After highlighting the multiple threats we face – to our safety, our food and water supply, and our way of life – Zack called for action to keep people cool and safe, taxes on oil and gas giants to fund our fire services, and public ownership of water to end the failed experiment of privatisation.

Zack was joined on stage by an ex-soldier and engineer, a doctor, and a firefighter, who described the consequences of extreme weather they had seen in their work – as well as broadcaster and environmental campaigner Chris Packham who warned of the present and future risks of the climate crisis.

Zack started his press conference with a vivid description of the consequences of the extreme heat that has hit the UK this year.

The day before he had witnessed the aftermath of the devastation caused by a wildfire in Oxfordshire.

“Trees reduced to charcoal. Cars turned to burnt out wrecks. The smell of smoke still lingering in the air, on the site of what was once a thriving local business – now reduced to ash.

“Wildfires. Literal scorched earth. And that looming sense that this is only the beginning.

“These days feel exceptional, but what we’re living through right now are likely some of the least extreme summer temperatures we’ll experience in our lifetimes.”

Zack also filmed a short video on location where the wildfire had destroyed a local business and surrounding woodland.

Meanwhile, extreme weather continues to cause bleak scenes across Europe; yet right-wing voices still deny the severity of what is happening right in front of us. It is imperative that those in power immediately address the climate emergency for what it is.

Join us today and become a vital part of the battle for survival and sustainability.

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