Sharing climate lessons

Students become the teachers in day of protest

TORRENTIAL rain did not dam pen the spirits of students striking for their future.

Hobartians young and old gathered at Parliament Lawn son Friday for the national day of action calling for a safe climate future.

The School Strike 4 Climate nipa luna Hobart team set up a ‘climate classroom’ with a series of talks aimed at educating Tasmanians on the ways climate change is impacting the state and why they should take action.

From 10 am the lawns were filled with people of all ages learning about climate science, social science, and global climate action, with the event culminating in an action rally about 2 pm.

School Strike 4 Climate member Sam Eccleston said the day was a success.

“We’ve been really impressed and really encouraged by the size of the crowd that’ s turned out ,” he said.

“It shows just how important the issue is to the people of Hobart – despite a pandemic and the pouring rain, the issue is still important, and people are still willing to

turn out and make their voice sheard.”

Mr Eccleston said the strikes across the country were united in their message.

“We don’t want the government to invest in gas as part of the recovery out of COVID-19. We want investment in a green-led recovery

so that we can more quickly transition to a zero carbon economy.”

Premier and Climate Change Minister Peter Gutwein said Tasmania was a leader in climate action. “This government recognises that climate change is an important issue, especially for our young

people, that requires action by all governments ,” he said.

“It’ s why we are consulting on our draft Renewable Energy Action Plan with a version designed specifically for young Tasmanians, and we will consult on our next Climate Action Plan soon .”