Raising climate awareness

• Published date: 04 November 2021
• Publication title: Clutha Leader

The environmental group created a display in the former H & J Smith building on Clyde St, for which Stirling School pupils provided visual materials.

Forest & Bird member Jan Johnstone said it would remain in place for the duration of the international COP-26 climate change talks in Glasgow.

The focus of the United Nations’ Conference of the Parties 26 is climate action, and the theme of the local display combines ideas for individual actions to reduce emissions, with pupils’ hopes for how the world will evolve.

Mrs Johnstone said she wanted to raise climate awareness locally during the COP-26 summit over the next 12 days.

‘‘We’re over doom-saying about climate and wanted a positive approach, addressing that ‘What can I do about it?’ question people ask themselves.

‘‘We involved Stirling School seniors so we could include young people’s ‘dreams of the future’, saying for themselves how they want the planet they’ll inherit.

‘‘Climate change is about getting people thinking globally and acting locally. When individuals put in the effort to change themselves, they’re more likely to put pressure on government and business, and demand action from the big players.’’

Stirling School principal Will Fraser said the school was happy to take part.

‘‘We had a Zoom meeting with Jan last Friday and she asked the kids how they would like the...