No doubt you've noticed our streets return to the congestion we know all too well, affecting our health and the health of our planet. Polluting cars now fill the streets, that only months ago were occupied by children riding, joggers running and people walking. Without significant investment in accessible public and active transport, we're likely to see this trend continue.
That's why the Sustainable Cities collective are more fired up than ever. We've hit the ground running to activate communities, councils, and MPs to build a stronger case for public transport with the city-shaping project of Melbourne Metro 2, whilst supporting our allies at the Disability Resources Centre to campaign for accessible trams.
We're calling on the Victorian government to divert spending away from major toll roads and towards safe, sustainable, and accessible public transport.
Here's what we've been up to:
#GetOnBoard VIC
Despite the approaching 13th anniversary of the introduction of the Melbourne Metro 2, there has still been no commitment to this integral project from the Victorian Government. It's important that we take action and urge the government to get on board and begin plans to keep up with growing demand of public transport. Find out more at #GetOnBoard.
Accessibility for all
Sign the Petition to make Public Transport more accessible.
Present day, 85% of Melbournes tram network remains inaccessible. Urge the Victorian Government to make public transport accessible for everyone. Show your support by signing the petition here.
Join the Disability Resources Centre Action for Accessible Trams!
Thursday 14 March, 11.45am, State Library
RSVP here.
Complete the Community Gardens Survey
Community gardens provide many benefits ranging from environmental to social and more. Friends of the Earth are conducting a survey to discover how community gardens are utilised and how we can further improve accessibility. We're designing a poster to be displayed online and in libraries in the Cities of Melbourne, Yarra, and Port Phillip. Complete the survey above to have your say.
Bus Satisfaction Survey
Friends of the Earth are working closely with University students from the United States to learn about the coverage of Greater Melbourne's current bus network across different neighbourhoods in the form of a short survey accessible here.
Coming up:
Info Night: Campaigning for Climate + Environmental Justice in 2021
Friends of the Earth will host an upcoming COVID-Safe info night to discuss the campaign for environmental justice and what you can do to get involved. If you are passionate about environmental justice then come and join us at Edinburgh Gardens on Tuesday, 2nd March, from 6pm - 8pm. More information can be found here.
Weekly Collective Meetings
Every Monday from 6pm the Sustainable Cities Collective meet to discuss campaign developments, new strategies and other pressing topics. Reply to this email to receive a Zoom link and join in. All are welcome!
Thanks for your ongoing support. See you on the campaign trail!