Clarence Climate Action recently held its second community expo. Held at Citywide Mornington on , Clarence Climate Action representative Katie Kristensen said the event was about raising awareness about climate change.
Clarence Climate Action expo a success
“We want to inspire people to take personal action on climate change and to acknowledge the big and small efforts that are being made by many individuals and groups in the community,” she said.
Speakers ranged from science writers and climate researchers to financial advisers and energy consultants.
“The focus was on speakers who could give practical advice — things like improving home energy efficiency, using investments as a driver of change, and how to talk to friends about climate change,” Ms Kristensen said.
Among the many stallholders at the expo were Plasticwise Eastside, the Sustainability Learning Centre and Warrane Community Garden.
Native plants were available from the Understorey Network, and Teach Make Create ran very popular nature-based craft activities for children.
Young people were well represented by the Rosny College Environment Group’s second hand clothes swap and Clarence High School’s Community Care Club, which allowed attendees to calculate their carbon footprint and test their knowledge of climate change.
“We were really pleased that the students wanted to be involved,” Ms Kristensen said.
“It’s their future at stake, and they bring so much passion and knowledge to the subject.”
Attendees also had the chance to take a test ride on an electric bike and chat to members of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association.
“There was a lot of interest in the electric cars and the electric bikes were a big favourite,” Ms Kristensen said.
“Everyone who tried them was surprised at how much power they had.
“The expo was a lot of work to organise, but we had a wonderful team of volunteers, and so much great feedback afterwards — we’re already making plans for next year.”
Eastern Shore Sun, October 2021, page 17