ST. JOHN’S – Local organisations are joining together Thursday evening, November 17, in St. John’s to host a panel discussion on the upcoming United Nations climate change negotiations. The event “Climate Policy, Climate Justice” is an effort to share information and ideas on how we can respond to the global climate crisis.

“It is crucial that we engage our communities, especially youth, in a discussion on climate change: the impacts, and solutions,” stated Meghan McCarthy of the Canadian Youth Climate Coalition. McCarthy will be participating in the negotiations, being held in Durban, South Africa at the end of November, as a member of the Canadian Youth Delegation.

“According to the latest International Energy Agency report the world is moving closer toward irreversible climate change,” stated Bill Hynd of Oxfam Canada.  “Inaction on climate change is simply not an option.”

“Act locally to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” is the message of Fred Winsor, Sierra Club of Canada. “Many of us can do this when we step out our front door. Walk, ride a bicycle or take a bus. In many cases we do have choices. Each small choice can make a big difference. It’s up to us.”

The event is open to the public.

The event is organised by the Canadian Youth Climate Coalition, MUN Project Green, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Environment Network.

 

Time: 7:00pm – 8:30 pm, Thursday, November 17, 2011

Venue: The Landing, UC 3018, Memorial University, St. John’s

 

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For further information contact:

 

Meghan McCarthy

Canadian Youth Climate Coalition

709-725-5769 / meghanemilymccarthy@gmail.com

 

Bill Hynd

Oxfam Canada (St. John’s)

709-753-2202 / billh@oxfam.ca

 

Fred Winsor

Sierra Club of Canada (Atlantic Chapter)

709- 738-3781/ winsorf@nl.rogers.com

 

Chris Hogan

Newfoundland and Labrador Environment Network

709-753-7898 / nlen.ed@gmail.com