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You Can Make A Difference
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Why Planning Works

Global problems have a local face. Making sure your family recycles your milk cartons, persuading your council to introduce kerbside recycling and campaigning globally to halt the export of toxic waste are all part of the same global effort to stop the over-consumption of resources.


Different people or groups need to decide where they can make most difference. Use the steps below to identify the exact nature of the problem you want to solve and the things that impact on solving the problem.

  
 


Identifying The Problem

Your campaign will be stronger if you take a step back and look at the problem in its context.

  • What is actually happening?
  • What is problematic about it?
  • Who is it a problem for and why?
  • What are your personal reasons for seeing the situation as a problem?
  • What are your professional reasons for seeing the situation as a problem?
  • What prejudices or assumptions do you bring to the issue that need airing?

It is easy to assume that everyone involved in a campaign has the same level of knowledge as you, but this is not always the case. Share information before you begin.

Some of the most powerful campaigns happen when communities facing the same kinds of problems work together to solve them.

Research Is Important

In a complex world no problem stands alone. You need to look at the environment you're operating in. This research can appear to be time consuming and potentially costly. You can avoid 'Analysis Paralysis' by setting limits to the research.

Mapping The Context - Things To Find Out

  • What are the public's perceptions of this issue: why would they care anyway?
  • What are the views of local and state politicians? Are there party positions on the issue?
  • What other organisations have a stake in this issue? Are they potential allies or potential opponents?
  • Does this campaign fit in with your organisation's values? Do you have the skills and resources? If not, can you get them?

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