Plan Z: From Lab Coats to Handcuffs

Are scientists doing enough to sound the alarm about climate breakdown? Plan Z traces the motivations of British researchers who’ve turned to civil disobedience to warn the public directly, risking arrest, a criminal record and their professional reputations. 

When the UK government pledges to ‘max out’ oil and gas extraction, the lives of psychology professor Colin, microbiologist Abi and ecologist Aaron collide outside the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), where they and six others are arrested for causing alleged criminal damage. But who are the real climate criminals? As restrictions on protest tighten, will scientists retreat to their laboratories or will more stand up than ever before?

A window into the world of reluctant activism, Plan Z explores the moral power of protest when established routes of influence fail.

This is an Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) x Department of Biology event.

Note: photographs will be taken during the event. We will not use any photographs that show faces without consent.