The trade union movement was out in strength on Saturday 12 November, as we joined thousands of activists from various campaign groups and environmentalists at the “This Crisis Demands Action” COP27 rally in Edinburgh.
The Trade Unions in Communities banner was prominent as we led sister unions through the city centre from St. Andrews Square to the Scottish Parliament.
With other rallies taking place throughout the UK, let’s hope this sends a clear message to the politicians at home and those attending COP27 in Egypt. We can no longer stand by and do nothing about climate change, especially when utility companies are making £millions in profits during a Cost-of-Living Crisis, that will see the most vulnerable in society and workers driven into fuel and food poverty. These companies need to be properly taxed, nationalised, and have their profits re-invested into clean renewable energies that makes the UK less dependable on other countries. 
Employers also have a responsibility to make sure that their buildings are environmentally sound, with improved air quality making for a better work environment. We also need investment in employee training and up-skilling for new and changing technologies. This is best done by the public sector, who can re-invest in their workforce and improve services rather than handing out £millions to shareholders. Said Ian Mullen, Branch Health and Safety Officer. Green UNISON Network member. 