Released 25/07/2017
Schools across the ACT will be switching off their power today for Schools Earth Hour in recognition of the damaging effects of climate change, said Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Shane Rattenbury.
“The damaging effects of our changing climate on the Great Barrier Reef, the ice caps and our endangered species can seem daunting, but fortunately many of our local kids are keen to engage with these issues and take action,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“School Earth Hour gives students the opportunity to think about electricity use and how they can reduce it to help the environment.
“To encourage engagement with these challenges, Actsmart Schools is running a competition where schools can win gift packs valued up to $1,000 for their creative approaches to electricity reduction. Ideas could include creating engaging social media content, writing poems or designing a poster of actions schools can take to reduce consumption.
“Hopefully an awareness of the links between energy use and environmental impacts gained at school can continue to inform consumption and lifestyle decisions as our young people mature.
“Actsmart Schools is making a big difference in local schools by providing them with the tools and knowledge to reduce their energy and waste consumption. Sustainability has become a core component of the curriculum. Schools have formed student energy teams, placed signs with energy saving messages around the school and taken practical steps like turning off appliances when not in use.
As one of the participating schools, Merici College students will be hand printing their individual sustainability pledges on a large banner on display at the school as well as ‘flicking the switch’ on electricity use during afternoon classes.
For more information on the competition, visit www.actsmart.act.gov.au or contact actsmart@act.gov.au
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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