Robyn Malcolm checks out the Climate Rescue Bus
solutions exhibition, using a hand-powered generator
to compare the efficiency of an eco-bulb with a
standard one. Bunny McDiarmid watches on.
"People understand the seriousness of what's happening, and some
are already taking action. Be The Change is about enabling these
active people to be joined by others," says Greenpeace Executive
Director, Bunny McDiarmid, "New Zealand is renowned for its clean
green approach; let's put that reputation into practice by being
the change and helping stop climate change."
The campaign was launched outside the Auckland museum on October
26. Supporters and media gathered to hear the Executive Directors
of the founding organisations, emcee Francesca Price (host of TV3's
'Wasted'), and Outrageous Fortune's Robyn Malcolm talk about the
importance of taking personal action on climate change. Conor
Roberts spoke about the Carbon Reduction Action Group (CRAG) he has
established in Auckland.
The backdrop to the launch was the impressive Be the Change bus,
kitted out with solar panels and interactive displays, and about to
embark on a nationwide tour, taking the climate message to towns
and communities the length of New Zealand.
"We are all able to do something," says Robyn Malcolm,
"sometimes the problem seems so big it feels hopeless, but if you
take steps toward understanding the problem you see that even the
small things can make a difference".
The new Be the Change website at www.BetheChange.org.nz promises
to be a major focal point for the growing community of New
Zealanders who are acting to address climate change. Read more
about the Be the Change website, and how to get active, over the
page.
The Climate Rescue Tour, Coming to a town near you
On November 7, the Be the Change bus left the town of Bluff. It
will spend the next month working its way up State Highway One,
before finishing up in Northland in December.
On board will be fun, interactive displays and examples of
environmentally friendly technology, such as our roof-mounted solar
panels, in action.
We've got some exciting activities planned, and we look forward
to seeing you (and your family and friends) when we arrive in your
town!