Reformism and radicalism in the Climate Camp in Britain: benign coexistence, tensions and prospects for bridging

Abstract

Data from in-depth interviews with participants in the 2008 Camp for Climate Action, participant observation and documents written by participants, are used to illustrate the tension that developed between reformists and radicals within the Climate Camp. Contrary to surface appearances and expectations derived from previous studies of environmental direct action groups, it is found that Climate Campers do not share a radical approach. The consequent drift towards reformism caused tension and contributed to the demise of Climate Camp as a national network. One way to avoid future tension might be for all participants to recognise the value of a multi-pronged approach to solving climate change. Allowing the Camp to act as a bridging organisation would reduce potential for fragmentation and collapse.