As we’ve pointed out a number of times already, there are myriad links between the Occupy Wall Street movement, initiatives like Occupy Rooftops, and modern environmentalism. Both share common roots in their critiques of economic disparity and corporate influence. Both movements advocate for social justice.
For example, some activists have adopted actions like Occupy Rooftops to draw attention to environmental and economic injustice. They seek to address the systemic issues that contribute to environmental degradation and inequality.
The Occupy Wall Street movement highlighted the alarming concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. This concentration often leads to the exploitation of natural resources and marginalized communities.
Meanwhile, environmentalists emphasize the urgent need for sustainable practices that protect our planet for future generations. By intersecting these causes, activists from both arenas aim to forge a holistic approach.
This approach not only fights for economic reforms but also combats climate change and advocates for a more equitable and sustainable society.
The biggest and most obvious is that our energy supply is largely controlled by the 1%. Also, fossil fuel companies like ExxonMobil and Koch Industries are among the largest and most profitable in the nation. Moreover, they exert their influence over the political process to deprive the 99% of something we all want. That is, clean, secure energy.
Occupy Rooftops
These companies dedicate vast resources to keep renewable energy down in a number of ways. First, they use a legion of lobbyists to push Washington to oppose carbon pricing policies and limit tax breaks to renewable energy. At the same time, they keep their own generous subsidies in place. (Remember, Exxon spends more on lobbying than the entire domestic clean energy industry combined.) Second, they mobilize opposition to clean energy policies by funding various front groups like Americans For Prosperity. Furthermore, they finance the campaigns of politicians that can be counted on to vote against measures. These measures would level the playing field for clean energy.
By: Brian Merchant for Treehugger.com
Business / Green Investments
November 14, 2011
For the entire story on Treehugger, please visit http://www.treehugger.com/green-investments/occupy-rooftops-seeks-start-community-solar-revolution.html
Thanks also to the yahoo ET List for emailing the article!!
