If you’re one of the 81 million people who read the Guardian online each month, then chances are you’ll be familiar with the name George Monbiot. George is a regular columnist for the publication and writes hard-hitting, thought provoking pieces. In fact, “hard-hitting and thought provoking” probably sums him up very well in just a few words. In this episode we talk about oligarchs, the environment, activism and the power of community.

Useful links:

• George Monbiot’s website and blog
• Books by George Monbiot
• His articles and columns in The Guardian.
• George Monbiot’s TED talks.
• His gobsmacking transparency around his finances – here.

Introduction:

If you’re one of the 81 million people who read the Guardian online each month, then chances are you’ll be familiar with the name George Monbiot. 

George is a regular columnist for the publication and writes hard-hitting, thought provoking pieces. In fact, “hard-hitting and thought provoking” probably sums him up very well in just a few words.

George is a well respected author, journalist, political activist and advocate. He started out by studying zoology at the University of Oxford but has devoted his life to human rights, the environment, climate change and social justice. His work has included time with the BBC Natural History Unit as a radio producer making natural history and environmental programmes and he has also worked as an investigative journalist around the world, covering issues and stories which some governments have found decidedly uncomfortable. In fact, he has been made persona non grata in seven countries, and has been sentenced to life imprisonment in absentia in Indonesia. He’s even had the dubious honour of being beaten up and arrested by military police.

So he’s clearly not afraid to be critical of people in positions of power.

A theme throughout much of his recent writing is his exasperation at what he sees as overwhelming inaction in the face of environmental and other crises we face. 

This interview with George took place during lockdown in 2020. But the themes and ideas are as relevant today as they were back then. It was recorded over zoom, so apologies in advance for the slightly hollow sound quality.

I started by asking George whether the label of “professional troublemaker” is fair.

I give you the extraordinary George Monbiot.