The recent climate change protests in Sydney that brought parts of the city to a standstill, after protesters blocked key roads and a tunnel during rush hour, have brought the climate change debate to the fore once again.

Blockade Australia protester, Mali Cooper, made national headlines when she locked herself to the steering wheel of a car and stationed her vehicle at the entrance to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, causing traffic chaos.

Cooper live-streamed her protest on social media, showing the bike lock wrapped around her neck and attached to the steering wheel as she conveyed her message. The live stream also captured an extremely irate commuter who hurled abuse at Cooper from outside the car.

The Australian public reacted in a similar vein to the irate commuter following the climate activist’s divisive actions, with many slamming Cooper for the manner in which she decided to protest. Although there were many who criticised Cooper, just as many threw their support behind her and commended the 22-year-old for her stand on the climate change issue.

Despite the significant inconvenience Cooper’s protest caused for Sydney commuters, many recognised that “this is how your issue gets noticed” with many offering their praise.

Much like the climate change debate, there were two sides regarding reactions to Cooper’s disruption of Sydney traffic in the name of saving the environment. For as many people who championed Cooper, there was an equal measure of those who slammed the young protester for her methods.

One commentator offered a novel approach to the traffic chaos.

One member of the public highlighted that Cooper’s actions could have contributed to environmental pollution given the number of cars that were left idling in traffic.

Many took a different approach and decided to remain somewhat neutral, simply choosing to make light of the disruption.