1 November 2007

Gladstone students will share their views on climate change at the Gladstone 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 students from the region.

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 Southern Senior Regional Liaison Officer, Warwick Sheldon 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 develop practical school-based solutions and create plans that will strengthen our response to climate change over the long-term,” he said.

“The plan will be developed by young people, for young people and will include a student centred approach to achieving a sustainable future."

The event is being run in partnership with the Gladstone City Council and the Fitzroy Basin Association.

Representatives from Queensland Aluminium will be present to hear how schools have been using the Reef Guardian Fund grants issued earlier this year.