Astronomers for Planet Earth: Engaging with the Public to Forge a Sustainable Future

Abstract

The climate crisis is here and the time for action is ticking away. Scientific evidence has repeatedly shown that humanity alone is responsible for the destructive changes happening to our climate. Likewise, the responsibility to address and curb global warming lies with us all. As astronomers, we have a unique opportunity to educate people on the impacts of anthropogenic climate change and urge those in power to take meaningful action. Astronomers for Planet Earth is a group of current and former professional astronomers, amateur astronomers, astronomy educators, and astronomy students from over 40 countries around the world. The organisation's goal is to 1) provide astronomers interested in climate change with a community to discuss ideas;2) provide the public with information about the climate crisis; and 3) provide the climate movement with an astronomical perspective.