02 November 2007

Schools all over the UK are being invited to be part of the climate change solution. ActionAid, an international development charity, is calling for schoolchildren to show their commitment to saving energy. The campaign, PowerDown, will be launched during the UN Climate Change Summit in Bali 3-14 December.

This year, ActionAid’s disasters and emergency teams have dealt with devastating floods in countries like Bangladesh, India and Uganda. Out of the 13 emergency appeals made by the United Nations this year, a record 12 were for floods, droughts and other disasters related to extreme weather. 2007 may be a freak year, but climate scientists believe this could be a taste of the future.

Janet Convery, Head of Schools and Youth at ActionAid said: "We are inviting schools here in the UK to show their solidarity with schools in Africa and Asia who now are having to learn how to cope with the increasing threats from extreme weather.

"It is hoped that in December world leaders will agree principles of a new international treaty for climate change and will commit more funds to lessen the impact of disasters. However, individuals and communities have an important role to play too!"

During PowerDown (3-14 December) schools can:

• Hold an assembly during the climate talks. Show the free PowerDown DVD to help young people understand the link between climate change and global poverty and how individuals can make a difference
• Use PowerDown posters around the school to raise awareness
  
• Order stickers for students to use at school and home
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