Let’s be honest: between school runs, lunchbox prep, and the endless pile of laundry, "saving the planet" can feel like just another thing to feel guilty about. When we see news of rising temperatures, it’s easy to feel stuck. But the truth is, it isn't up to any one family to fix this alone; it requires a collective response. That’s why Parents for Climate exists - to empower us to take action together and build support networks in our communities.
With World Environment Day approaching on June 5th, this year’s global theme - The signals are clear. What comes next is up to us - feels especially relevant. It’s an opportunity to pause and think about the "signals" we are sending. The planet is signaling us through heatwaves, more intense rainfall and shifting seasons; in response, we can signal that our families care, that we are ready for change, and that we’re moving toward a cleaner future together.
Low-Stress Ways to Get Involved (May 30 – June 7)
We are encouraging families to get involved in acknowledging World Environment Day by taking action or attending an event between May 30 - June 7. You don’t need to be a policy or science expert to make an impact. Here are a few tangible and creative ways local families are "sending a signal" this year. Whether you have an hour or a whole afternoon, there’s an opportunity for you and your family.
- The "Swap, Before You Shop" approach: Local groups are hosting clothes and toy swaps. It’s a win-win: you declutter the playroom and get "new" gear for the kids without the carbon footprint (or the price tag) of new manufacturing.
- Nature play & family picnics: Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is reconnect. Join a family picnic or nature playgroup. It’s a chance to let the kids play while we chat with other parents about what a climate-safe future looks like for our community.
- The power of showing up: Many events are inviting local MPs and Councillors. You don’t have to give a speech, informal conversations matter. Just showing up with your kids sends a massive signal to decision-makers that local families prioritize climate action.
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Showcase examples in your community: Interested in cutting energy bills? Look for an EV or home electrification showcase. Seeing how someone else has transitioned to an induction cooktop or an electric car makes the "big switch" feel a lot more doable.
What’s Happening Near You?
Our local groups have already hit the ground running. If you’re near these areas, we invite you to join us!
- Western Sydney: EV and home electrification showcase.
- Bathurst: Winter family picnic and nature playgroup.
- Blue Mountains: Winter Kids’ Clothes and Toy Swap.
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Brisbane & Surrounds: Family event at Daisy Hill Conservation Park.
Connect with a local group - https://www.parentsforclimate.org/localgroups
Find more events here - https://www.parentsforclimate.org/events
Can’t Find an Event? Start a Small Signal.
If your calendar is truly maxed out, you can still participate. Start a conversation with one other parent at the school gate about a climate win you’ve seen lately, maybe it’s a new bike lane or a neighbour’s solar panels.
The planet doesn’t negotiate, but it does respond to movement. When we move together, we move the needle. This June, let’s show our kids that we aren't just watching the signals - we’re sending back a message of hope and action.
If you’d like to host a small gathering or need help connecting with your local MP for an event, please reach out to our Community Resilience Manager Bianca Sands - [email protected] We have plenty of resources to make it easy and effective.