International Day of Climate Action

International Day of Climate Action

On Friday 23rd October 2009, all eyes will be on the Seafront as Vanuatu celebrates the International Day of Climate Action for the first time. Climate change is an issue receiving a lot of attention at the moment – and rightly so, we are already seeing the effects on peoples’ livelihoods across the Pacific, including in some islands in Vanuatu. Effects being experienced right now include sea level rise and saltwater intrusion, changes in rainfall patterns, coastal degradation, and increasing disasters such as cyclones.

2009 is the Pacific Year of Climate Change and on Friday, 23rd October, Vanuatu will join over 125 countries around the world who are taking action on this day. Vanuatu’s event “Dei Blong Klaemet Jenis – Save moa blong tekem aksen” will focus on raising awareness about climate change, and what the people of Vanuatu can do about it.

The Honorable Ralph Regenvanu MP will officially launch the day and present his view on what Vanuatu can do about climate change. Held at the Seafront Stage, from 10am to 12pm, the activities will include an exhibition of competition entries – stories, posters and poems from school students about climate change and the famous Wan Smolbag “ANZ Bikers in blue” will perform their bike tricks on a purpose built obstacle course. There will be prize packs donated by the Environment Unit for all schools who enter the climate change competition plus more prizes on the day.

“This day is a celebration and a way for people to come together and learn more about climate change and what we can do a nation to address climate change effects”, Emma Peppler, Chair of the organising committee and Live and Learn Environmental Education Volunteer said.
She said ”It is vital that Vanuatu presents a strong position for Pacific Island Nations at the international climate change negotiations in Copenhagen in December and the Dei blong Klaemet Jenis will be an opportunity for people to lend their support and start taking action.”

This inaugural celebration is being coordinated by Live and Learn Environmental Education, Wan Smolbag, Save the Children, World Vision, and the Presbyterian youth. The event is also supported by the Vanuatu Meteorological Service and the Department of Youth and Sport.

The organising committee is also seeking sponsors for the event - should you wish to offer your support, please contact Emma or Sophie at Live and Learn Environmental Education, on 27448.

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