The Palaszczuk Government has announced that it will host Queensland’s very first Climate Week later this year.
Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch said during Climate Week Queensland, to be held between 2-8 June, the state will host political, business and community representatives, including former US Vice President Al Gore, to discuss how we can all work together to address climate change.
“Climate change is the greatest challenge facing our planet today and it is critical that we unite to take urgent action,” Ms Enoch said.
“The Palaszczuk Government is a strong supporter for action on climate change, and hosting this event in June puts Queensland at the forefront of this international issue as the world transitions to a low carbon economy.
“Climate Week Queensland will also build on our Government’s targets for 50% renewable energy by 2030, and zero net emissions by 2050.”
Ms Enoch said action is needed to safeguard Queensland communities and natural assets like the Great Barrier Reef.
“Science shows climate change is the biggest threat to the Great Barrier Reef, and we have a responsibility to ensure it is protected for future generations.
“As a proud member of the Under 2 Coalition – a group of sub-national governments committed to keeping global warming to below 2 degrees – the Palaszczuk Government is committed to doing its fair share to meet Australia’s Paris commitments.
“During Climate Week Queensland, we will bring together sub-national governments from across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
“In addition, we will host a First Nations Summit to ensure that these communities, many of which are also experiencing the impacts of climate change, are part of these important discussions.”
During the week, former US Vice President Al Gore and Climate Reality will host climate leadership training for between 800-1000 business and community leaders from across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Professor Don Henry, chair of Climate Reality in Australia and the Pacific – said that this is the first time Nobel Prize winner Mr Gore will do a training on this crucial issue in Queensland and Northern Australia.
“It is a good opportunity for people from all walks of life to be better informed and act on the solutions needed to tackle climate change,” Professor Henry said.
“With the Great Barrier Reef threatened by climate change and action needed across the Asia Pacific region, the training will be of global significance.”
Climate Week Queensland will also include business forums and a public program of arts, music, and panel discussions.
“As part of the week, I am very proud to launch the 2019 Minister’s Climate Challenge which provides bright young Queenslanders an opportunity to be involved in the climate change conversation,” Ms Enoch said.
“Students from years 3 to 10 across the state are invited to identify a local climate problem and brainstorm an innovative business or social change idea to solve it.
“The students who put forward the most innovative ideas will have the opportunity to be mentored by and have their solutions judged by world-class business leaders during Climate Week Queensland.”
