The Advertiser
By: Clare Peddie, Science Reporter
A growing awareness of the need for local action to solve global problems is driving a new green movement.
United Nations Environment Program executive director Achim Steiner says World Environment Day tomorrow is a chance to celebrate people power.
"Ultimately, history has been made by people who make change possible,'' he said. "It begins with individuals, it gathers communities and ultimately becomes a movement that can make a difference.''
This year's World Environment Day theme is "Many Species, One Planet, One Future'', as 2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity.
Local events include a biodiversity tour of Tulya Wodli (North-West parklands), organised by Adelaide City Council. Schools are taking the opportunity to focus on the environment, with class activities and excursions to conservation areas. Students from Belair schools are visiting Belair National Park for birdwatching and koala-spotting.
Australian Conservation Foundation GreenHome co-ordinator Ross Egleton said some might feel a sense of "green fatigue'' when faced with the challenge of sustainability. "There's a long list of actions people can take and this can be overwhelming, so we encourage people to choose one or two actions, do them well to build confidence,'' he said. "It feels great to be organised enough to shop with a calico bag, drink from a stainless steel bottle, reap food from your garden or ride your bike to the shops.
"Local community projects targeting sustainability and climate change are becoming popular. These include regular toy swap events, solar streets and some communities are taking themselves off the grid.''
More than 30 community gardens serve South Australians who wish to grow fresh produce.
Hoang Ly spends a couple of hours a week tending a small plot at the Fern Avenue Garden in Fullarton with her toddler, 3, and baby, 1.
"It's nice just socialising with other people, getting ideas,'' she said. "I think it would be hard doing it on your own.''
Vida Biggs has been going to the garden for nine years.
She felt she was doing her bit for the environment by growing organic produce.
More about World Environment Day at www.unep.org/wed/2010/english/