LONDON: Two UK activists painted “1.5 is dead” on Charles Darwin’s grave in Westminster Abbey on Monday morning.
The phrase refers to surpassing the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold meant to limit global warming impacts.
Protestors entered the historic site at 10 a.m., calling attention to the ongoing climate and biodiversity crises.
Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident, and activist group Just Stop Oil claimed responsibility in a public statement.
Alarming Climate Milestones
Activists stated, “We’ve passed the 1.5-degree threshold that was supposed to keep humanity and ecosystems safe.”
They highlighted consequences like mass displacement, California wildfires, and significant wildlife population losses since the 1970s.
The Copernicus Climate Agency recorded 2024 as the hottest year, with global warming exceeding the 1.5-degree mark.
Scientists warn prolonged breaches above 1.5 degrees will challenge humans and ecosystems’ ability to adapt.
Activists Reference Mass Extinction Crisis
Protestors linked climate change to a “sixth mass extinction,” causing vast habitat destruction and species extinction worldwide.
“Darwin would turn in his grave seeing this catastrophic loss of biodiversity,” activists proclaimed during their demonstration.
They demanded the UK phase out fossil fuel extraction and burning by 2030 to mitigate environmental damage.Activists used spray chalk, a washable and non-toxic substance, to mark Darwin’s grave, minimizing any permanent damage.
History of Just Stop Oil Protests
Just Stop Oil has conducted numerous protests, including targeting artworks and landmarks like Van Gogh’s painting and Stonehenge.
Since 2022, over 3,000 of their activists have been arrested, many for direct actions disrupting public spaces.
Their methods include slow marches, traffic blockages, and acts of civil disobedience against climate inaction.
Some members received unprecedented lengthy sentences for non-violent demonstrations in September 2024.
Growing Calls for Urgent Climate Action
Protestors aim to pressure governments to act swiftly, citing worsening ecological damage and unfulfilled global climate commitments.
The alarming warnings and protests underline the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy and conservation efforts.
Public debate over balancing activism and respecting historic sites remains a polarizing topic within society.
Efforts continue worldwide to mitigate climate impacts as activists push for systemic change to ensure planetary sustainability.
