News

Join the Dots Together items of interest

  • The Outcomes of Biodiversity COP16 and Climate COP29: Why They Matter 

    The Outcomes of Biodiversity COP16 and Climate COP29: Why They Matter 

    Discover why the recent Biodiversity COP16 and Climate COP29 are pivotal for our planet’s future. In a thought-provoking article, Athena Peralta, director of the WCC Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development, answers pressing questions about the outcomes of these critical events. Key topics include: The alarming impacts of the climate emergency in 2024. The…

  • Where women lead, action follows

    Where women lead, action follows

    Just published, the Wilton Park report on the Frascati meeting last October which initiated work to set up the “Women, Faith & Climate Network”. The full report is available here: https://www.wiltonpark.org.uk/idea/where-women-lead-action-follows/ Here is the summary, Women climate change activists from the global South, their counterparts from the North, young and older, from diverse faiths, faith-based…

  • Our Voices Matter – Youth & Politicians Forum

    Our Voices Matter – Youth & Politicians Forum

    On Friday, 13th December, members of the “Join the Dots Together” Steering Group met with MLA Paula Bradshaw (Alliance Party)  in her office on the Ormeau Road. It was a great opportunity to update Paula on our recent activities and discuss plans for the future. We shared the success of the “Our Voices Matter” schools…

  • Women Faith and Climate Network

    Women Faith and Climate Network

    Climate justice advocate Lorna Gold, Chair of the Laudato Si’ Movement, emphasizes the vital role of faith and women in addressing climate change. Speaking to Renata Steffens of the Irish Catholic on 8th December, she highlighted the unequal impacts of climate change, particularly on impoverished communities, women, and children. Lorna’s lifelong mission stems from growing…

  • Public Consultation – Private Member’s Bill on improving tree protections in Northern Ireland

    Public Consultation – Private Member’s Bill on improving tree protections in Northern Ireland

    Consultation starts 27/11/24, ends 06/03/2025 Peter McReynolds MLA plans to introduce a Private Member’s Bill to improve protection for trees across Northern Ireland. This legislation would seek to strengthen the legal protection of individual and groups of trees, as well as ancient and long-established woodland in Northern Ireland. A proposed Bill would cover three key…

  • UNCCD COP 16

    UNCCD COP 16

    The 16th session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16) is currently taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2nd-13th December. This conference brings together 197 parties to address pressing global issues like land degradation, desertification and drought resilience. Under the theme “Our Land. Our Future”, the event emphasizes the importance of…

  • “The Future’s Already Here: Communities Stepping Into Their Power”

    “The Future’s Already Here: Communities Stepping Into Their Power”

    What an inspiring event today, 15th November, in Carrickfergus Town Hall. A gang of change makers gathered for “The Future’s Already Here: Communities Stepping Into Their Power.” The event was a celebration of innovative ideas and grassroots action, highlighting how communities can transform challenges into thriving futures. A Day of Connection and Insight The event…

  • Faith Response to Climate Crisis

    Faith Response to Climate Crisis

    The first day at COP29’s Faith Pavilion set a powerful tone, showcasing the essential role of faith communities in the global climate movement. The overall theme is “Bringing Faith to the Climate Frontlines”.  Representatives from diverse faiths gathered to discuss how spiritual values and beliefs drive climate action and inspire resilience. Key topics included the…

  • Lorna Gold speaks about COP29

    Lorna Gold speaks about COP29

    In an interview with Vatican News, Lorna Gold of the Laudato Si’ Movement emphasised COP29’s importance. Having addressed our January meeting, Lorna is familiar with Join the Dots Together. COP29, ongoing in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a major UN climate conference bringing together world leaders, scientists, activists, and faith-based organizations to tackle urgent climate issues. This…

  • Faith at the Forefront of Climate Action – A Look at COP29

    Faith at the Forefront of Climate Action – A Look at COP29

    As COP29 convenes this November in Baku, Azerbaijan, the role of faith communities has gained unprecedented attention, marking a powerful alliance between religious conviction and environmental advocacy. The global climate crisis impacts millions, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Religious leaders across faiths now recognize a moral imperative to lead in this struggle, emphasizing a shared commitment…