29 August 2007

Mackay students will share their views on climate change at the Mackay Future Leaders Eco Challenge.

The Eco Challenge is being facilitated by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) as part of the Reef Guardian Schools Programme and will involve more than 30 students from seven schools around Mackay, Bowen and the Whitsundays.

GBRMPA Reef Guardian Schools Programme Manager Megan Sperring said the theme of the Eco Challenge was: in an ever-changing world, what does climate change mean to you?

“The students have the opportunity to hear from climate change experts and share stories and experiences with other students about what their school is doing to better understand climate change,” she said.

“They will also be encouraged to network and problem solve with one another on current climate change issues, and plan for the future on what they can all do to be a part of the solution.”

GBRMPA Mackay Regional Liaison Manager Michael O’Keeffe, who will officially open the Eco Challenge, said students would benefit just as much as the community would from the outcomes of the day.

“The Eco-Challenge is an opportunity for young leaders to work on practical solutions to develop and support our response to climate change over the long-term,” he said.

“This will result in a school climate change plan for a sustainable region.

“The plan will be developed by young people, for young people and includes a school-based approach to achieving a sustainable future.”

The event is being run in conjunction with the Mackay City Council and the Mackay/Whitsunday Natural Resource Management group with support from the Whitsunday and Mackay Local Marine Advisory committees.