Tasmania Leads the Way on International Day of Climate Action

The creation of a collage of plants alongside the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens floral clock is just one of thousands of actions being taken around the world in support of the International Day of Climate Action on 24 October 2009.

The Minister Assisting the Premier on Climate Change, Lisa Singh, today said Tasmania had shown great innovation and leadership in response to climate change.

“As only the second state in Australia to legislate an emissions reduction target, Tasmania is taking major steps to reduce our emissions profile,” Ms Singh said.

“We have set an ambitious target of reducing our emissions by 60 per cent of their 1990 levels by 2050.

“Achieving this target will require government action and changes to the way we do business.

“Most importantly, it will require individuals and communities to take action to reduce their own carbon footprint.”

Ms Singh said an expert advisory council on climate change had been established in Tasmania to provide high-level, independent advice on the State’s response to climate change.

Significant initiatives already underway include the ClimateConnect community grants program, a number of climate research projects focused on mitigation and adaptation and a partnership with Sustainable Living Tasmania to help householders, schools and small business reduce their carbon footprint.

The International Day of Climate Action has been initiated by the 350 org campaign, with the aim of reducing carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere to below 350 parts per million.

Events promoting the 350 message are happening across Tasmania, and include the 350 Windmills for Climate Change in Launceston, a Mole Creek Food Mile Market and a procession of precious things in Hobart.

More information about Tasmania’s response to climate change can be found at www.climatechange.tas.gov.au

Further details about the 350 campaign can be found at www.350.org
Lisa Singh, MP Minister Assisting the Premier on Climate Change