Young people wanted for environmental conference
MEDIA RELEASE
Young people wanted for South Island
environmental conference
For immediate release: Friday 31 October 2003
Senior college students with a passion for the environment are invited to put their names in the hat for a five-day international conference in Christchurch next year.
Environment Bay of Plenty wants to sponsor two Bay of Plenty students to the Asia Pacific EnviroSchool conference in April. Environmental education officer Kerry Gosling is now seeking nominations and asks parents and teachers to encourage their “keen young people” to apply for a placement.
“It is a fantastic opportunity – and it will be a lot of fun too,” she says. The event’s aim is to raise environmental awareness in tomorrow’s citizen’s and potential leaders, she explains. “They will have the chance to learn, discuss and debate environmental issues with other youth from New Zealand and the Pacific.“ She hopes the experience will equip students with the confidence and knowledge to “take action for the environment” within their own communities.
Youth EnviroSchool (YES) 2004 is a joint venture between Lincoln University and the Rotary Club of Lincoln. The event, which has achieved international recognition, is an intensive residential school for up to 100 students. They must be more than 16 years old and in Year 12 or 13 in 2004.
Last year Environment Bay of Plenty sponsored Michael Newcombe from Te Puke High School and Kedra Schwab from Mount Maunganui College. They were both involved in environmental groups and activities at their schools.
Mrs Gosling is looking for students already active in the environment or considering a career in the environmental field. Environment Bay of Plenty will pay all the costs, including travel, food and accommodation. For more information, call Kerry Gosling on 0800 ENV BOP (368 267). Nomination forms must be in to Environment Bay of Plenty by November 17.
ENDS