The eco-worrier in me has gone into (electric) overdrive this week as heads of state meet at COP27 to tackle the climate emergency.

It’s never been more urgent, particularly after the recent publication of a UN report that warned that the climate crisis has reached a ‘really bleak moment.’

One of the key topics on the agenda is to deliver commitments to finance climate action in developing countries, to back demands for a loss-and-damage finance facility.

For most of us, the term Climate Justice evokes the human side of the climate crisis, happening thousands of miles away from where we live.

It’s something that many of us feel powerless to influence. But as the drama unfolds at COP27, there are actions can we take here in Camden.

Ham & High: Debbie Bourne says we can all support Climate JusticeDebbie Bourne says we can all support Climate Justice (Image: Debbie Bourne)

Meet Nazma Begum. Nazma is a Camdener who is on a mission to help communities and schools in the Sylhet region in Bangladesh by raising funds to provide wells, toilets and dignity packs. Nazma’s parents were born in the Sylhet region.

As Nazma says; "I’m in a privileged position where I have the education and capacity to give back. I believe we can all do small actions together to make a difference to the lives of others."

She continues; "Bangladesh is one of the countries on the front line of the climate emergency.

"Here, global heating is not a theoretical calamity of the future, but a very real, present danger.

Earlier this year there were catastrophic flash floods. Much of the Sylhet region was flooded, killing at least 68 people, leaving thousands displaced.

"According to the UN, an estimated 7.2 million people were affected. Women and children in Sylhet are more likely to be affected than men, which is a key motivation for the work I do."

As we approach the season of goodwill here in Camden, I urge all you eco-worriers to support Nazma’s amazing project. Together, let’s make Climate Justice something we’re empowered to influence, from our secure homes in Camden (justgiving.com/crowdfunding/givethegift).

And here’s another idea for businesses reading this. Join Camden Council and Think&Do on Tuesday, November 29 at 11am for an action packed morning of climate action (eventbrite.co.uk/e/post-cop27-what-next-for-camden-tickets-452023132357).

Together, let’s find ways to tackle the climate crisis through our business and community networks.

Debbie Bourne is from Think&Do Camden and also designs wild gardens: ofbutterfliesandbees.co.uk