International Year of Chemistry - New Zealand Launch

Throughout 2011, United Nations member states will celebrate the science and art of chemistry and its contribution to humankind. The UN General Assembly declared 2011 the International Year of Chemistry and nominated UNESCO as the lead UN Agency for the year.

New Zealand's launch kicks off this evening with a fashion show - highlighting the amazing Merino Gold, a Kiwi creation of gold atoms and fine merino yarn - and a lecture by visiting Cambridge lecturer, Sir Richard Friend. UNESCO sees the International Year of Chemistry as a way to inspire young New Zealand scientists.

"Kiwi ingenuity and creativity is a legacy handed down to our youngest scientists by world leading scientists such as Nobel Prize winner Ernest Lord Rutherford whose revolutionary research saw the discovery of the nucleus," says NZ National Commission for UNESCO Deputy Chair, Andrew Matthews.

"Each year UNESCO helps sponsor the annual Realise the Dream Awards that celebrates our nation's leading junior scientists from schools throughout New Zealand. Their intelligence and passion for science and how it can change our world is truly awesome."

The Royal Society of NZ and the NZ Institute of Chemistry are partners in promoting the year in New Zealand.

For more information please contact Christine Robertson (Public Relations,UNESCO) on 027 506 3370

http://www.unesco.org.nz

ENDS

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