Here is an example of how a conversation could start (or you can just wing it!):
Hello, I’m [Your Name] and I would like to leave a message about neonics for the minister of agriculture.
I have heard that EU governments might vote on a full ban of three widely used neonic pesticides soon. I wanted to urge the agricultural minister to support such a ban.
We all depend on the bees to pollinate our crops. And there is a strong scientific consensus that neonics used on crops are harming the bees that pollinate them. That is why I am deeply concerned about the use of these pesticides -- and why I am urging the agricultural minister to advocate for a full ban of neonics.
Can you pass this message on to the Agriculture Minister?
Thank you for your time.
Tips
- Be friendly and polite - the person picking up the phone will find it hard to ignore you if you are polite.
- Don’t feel like you have to answer any specific questions if you don’t feel comfortable.
Tips
- Be friendly and polite - the person picking up the phone will find it hard to ignore you if you are polite.
- Don’t feel like you have to answer any specific questions if you don’t feel comfortable.
FAQs
What if they ask who asked me to call?
Tell the person that you’re a member of a global organisation called SumOfUs, which runs campaigns to keep corporations accountable. Tell them you’re calling as someone who is concerned about the use of pesticides that threaten the bees. Our entire food system depends on the bees pollinating our crops -- so we should do everything we can to protect them.
What if the person asks me a question you can’t answer?
It’s ok to say you don’t know. Or you might want to say that you will contact them back with more information.
What if I’m not connected?
The line may be busy - sorry about that. Please do try calling again later if possible.