Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard hosted a workshop for local primary school students on 26 October 2010 to raise awareness on climate change and local biodiversity issues. The workshop was organised in conjunction with Conservation Week 2010 which falls on 23 to 30 October.

"I was very pleased to see that the students were very knowledgeable about climate change and biodiversity issues," said Dr Woollard.

"They offered constructive and practical suggestions on how to live sustainably, minimise their carbon footprint and conserve the environment."

Dr Woollard said 21 students and three teachers from seven of the nine primary schools within the Electorate attended the workshop. Representatives from the Conservation Council were invited to discuss climate change and how the students and their families could change their lifestyles to help the environment.

Dr Woollard also invited the Millennium Kids to present at the workshop. The organisation discussed the history and biodiversity of the Swan River, and introduced the students to bobtail lizards.

"The students enjoyed the hands-on session with the bobtail lizards as they learned more about the reptile, how they contribute to our biodiversity and how they could be protected when found on the roads or around the house," said Dr Woollard.

"I am confident the workshop enhanced the knowledge of the students and I hope they will share what they have learned with their school friends and their families.

"The Conservation Council are asking parents if they can follow-up with some of the students in one month’s time to see how sustainable living practices have been implemented."

Dr Woollard said she is looking forward to learn how the students apply what they learned at the workshop. "It is heartening to know that our young children are keenly aware of the problems facing our environment and are eager to make changes that would help to improve it," said Dr Woollard.

About Conservation Week 2010

Conservation Week is the largest community focused event which celebrates Western Australia’s unique environment. Community events were organised during the week to help raise awareness of issues facing our environment. http://conservationwa.asn.au/content/view/64/202/

About Conservation Council

The Conservation Council of WA was formed in 1967. It is an outspoken advocate of environmental protection, which informs the public and governments on key environmental issues and participate in government and community processes that seek to restore and protect the natural environment. The Council is the State's main non-government organisation for accessing conservation resources and networks in WA and assist many members of the community and conservation-focused groups throughout the State. It is The Council is the State’s representative for conservation groups who are active in protecting the natural environment and sustainability in WA. http://conservationwa.asn.au/

About Millennium Kids

Millennium Kids is a not-for-profit non-government organisation which was established in 1996. It is an organisation run by young people and was established in response to their demand to have a say about their environment and their world. Our aim is to develop local regional and international partnerships which empower young people to explore, identify and address environmental issues through information exchange, membership networks and on the ground action and development of youth leadership issues. http://www.millenniumkids.com.au/