The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) has officially kicked-off in Glasgow on October 31 and will run until November 12, 2021. With heightened awareness and deepening concern about climate change, there is an expectation that action needs to follow. There is little patience for yet more rhetoric and continuing slow progress. Even with the absence of some countries whose emissions are part of the problem, it is still right to hope that good things will flow from this meeting of minds.

Being optimistic about our capacity to drive the meaningful change we need to secure our planet’s future is likely to be more productive than living in fear. This is at the heart of an art initiative presented by #TOGETHERBAND at COP26 to launch the Clean Power campaign designed to kick start the green energy movement. Artist Morag Myerscough has brought extra color to Glasgow with her bold flags which have appeared all over the city. With their simple message of “CLEAN POWER” and “SUN, SEA, AIR”, the colors used of oranges, green and blues represent the essential elements which can help us to find a way out of a climate emergency.

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The artist wants everyone who sees the flags to have a sense of joy not foreboding. She wants us to be thoughtful about what they symbolize and how they reveal a different approach to sourcing and managing our energy supply in a sustainable way. As she says: “It is so wonderful to see iconic sites filled with color and hope”. The choice of materials used matters too – every flag is made from recycled ocean plastic as a reminder of one of the key environmental dangers which we face.

Each flag installation has URL and QR codes which direct you to the website cleanpower.eco where you can find energy saving advice, details on how renewables can fill the gap and even how to secure a share in a new wind farm. It is a striking concept and the flags are set to go on a nationwide tour after COP26 before finishing their journey in London’s Regent Street to launch Earth Hour in March 2022.

Art has a vital role in highlighting international efforts to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. Imagery is power and can also resonate more than a set-piece political speech. In building awareness, there has to be an emphasis on our own role in generating greenhouse gas emissions in the ways we travel and heat our homes. With action clearly needed, Clean Power wants the focus to be on changes which are practical, affordable and realistic.

Since its establishment on Earth Day 2019, #TOGETHERBAND has had a huge impact with its non-profit campaign to highlight the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. As a leading sustainable accessories brand, it works to support over 40 grassroots organizations striving to make the world better for current and future generations.

With the colorful flags fluttering all around COP26, perhaps the many delegates will see them as a sign of hope but also a call for action.