Sara’s Press Conference Speech 8 December
My name is Sara Svensson, I'm 25 years old and I'm from Sweden. Today is my 33rd day of Climate Justice Fast.
For over a month I've been eating no food at all, drinking only water. It has certainly not been easy. I get colder than usual, my body is physically weaker, and every day requires a lot of self-discipline to keep going.
On the other hand, this fast is also very empowering. My mind is clear, I'm focused and peaceful. I feel that there's nothing more important I could do with my life than to undertake strong personal action to ensure the survival of humanity and all life on earth.
This experience has opened my eyes and given me a better understanding for the daily reality of many less privileged people in our world. I'm now more committed than ever to do everything I can to prevent food shortages and other severe catastrophes that climate change may bring to millions more, if we allow it to continue.
To stop climate change and create a sustainable and just world will require total comittment from every individual on earth. It may seem impossible, but it's not. For me it seemed impossible to go without food for a month, but it was not.
Climate Justice Fast has inspired thousands of people. We're spreading hope and belief in positive change. Thanks to all the feedback and support we get, my sacrifice seems minimal.
A one-planet lifestyle with enough resources for everyone will mean a totally different way of life. It means a whole new way of thinking, planning and doing things. But this new reality is not at all less desirable.
In the sustainable future we will be happier than today, have more time for family, community, personal relationships. Instead of material consumption there will be much more creativitiy and space for healthy activities like dancing, sports, and leisure time in nature. It will bring us joy and fill us with love while connecting us more to mother earth and to each other.
Here, at COP15, we now have the biggest opportunity we've ever had for this necessary positive shift to happen. I'm full of expectations and hope for what political and cultural shifts Copenhagen will bring.
For COP15 to be a success, we need a lot of effort from our world leaders. We need and expect them not to waste this chance. We ask them to be courageous, to look beyond what may be ”politically pragmatic” and instead show real bold leadership. Take scientifically sound decisions with the long-term interests of the world's population and future generations in mind. Provide real outcomes right here and now, without further delay.
We ask our world leaders here to please not disappoint us. Our fast is a demonstration that people are ready for change. Give us the deal we need for survival and give us the political tools to transform our world. We are ready, and we will!
