BP headquarters at St. James Square, London has been blocked by Greenpeace activist. These climate change activists have devised a novel way of making the world listen to their demands. They demand an end to new oil and gas exploring.
The activist has placed five large containers strategically barring the entry to oil company office. These activists arrived at 3 am on Monday and stationed themselves in heavy containers. The containers weigh some several tonnes and are preventing the staff of BP from entering their office. The containers were decorated with image from Gideon Mendel’s Drowning World.
Two activists of the Greenpeace army are stationed inside the containers. They have enough provision to last for at least a week. These activists have all the essential amenities like food, water, reading books and phone to communicate with a fellow activist. While another group of activists, around 15 occupy the top of the boxes and in front of the building windows to unfurl banners and flags.
The protest is taking place just ahead of BP’s AGM on Tuesday. A similar protest took place weeks after protestors carried somewhat same operation wherein Shell’s headquarters were targeted. Bp’s staff has been advised to stay at home for the day.
Greenpeace activist had to take such extreme step as BP activities are threatening climate emergency where millions of lives and the future of the world are threatened. The only way to make their voice and concerned be heard was this. There must be a full stop to the searching for oil and gas and instead, renewable energy sources must be searched to make our planet a better place to live.
It is reported that BP is spending thirty times as much on developing new oil and gas fields. Greenpeace reports that BP is spending more than other oil firms on lobbying campaign against climate action. It is believed to have spent $16 billion adding to it oil and gas reserve in 2018. While only $500 million was invested in alternative to fossil fuel.
BP has welcomed debates and discussions and peaceful marches on important issues. They are ready to changes in their business for the welfare of the world. But it does not approve of the method of protest the Greenpeace has employed.
According to protestors, the company has no future in oil. So it is left with two choice- 100% renewable sources or to wind up its business. In fact, all oil companies should look for alternative sources. As humans, we have already used the natural resources to the point of depletion. We have to bring about the change not just for better today but also for better tomorrow.
The London Metropolitan Police reported that it had arrested four of the protesters. But later informed that all the protesters were detained by late Monday evening. The area has been cordoned for precautionary measures and all the protesters had left. There had been no such major disturbances affecting the other office goers, tourists or shoppers.
