After the United Nations' climate change conference in Bali, world leaders must match the commitment of local people.
Climate change is happening, and the overwhelming weight of scientific evidence says that humans are causing global warming.
The richest countries are most responsible, but the world's poorest people are already feeling its devastating effects.
Changing weather is already having a profound effect on millions of poor people, who simply don't have the resources to cope with this change.
In Oxford, many individuals, groups and businesses are making substantial efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.
Last month, Oxfam supporters across Oxford organised a number of film parties to engage friends and family in the issue of how climate change is already impacting on the world's poorest people.
But tackling climate change needs action not just at a local level but at a global level.
By taking personal actions to green our lives, we can encourage governments to act, and make them realise how serious people are about combating climate change.
HAYLEY BAKER, Oxfam Campaigner, London and the South East
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