Climate science and solar technology will be a feature at desertSMART Ecofair 2016, with Professor Lesley Hughes from the Climate Council and Claire O’Rourke from Solar Citizens being guest speakers at the EcoFair Sustainable Living Festival and Eco-markets on Sunday August 14th, at the Alice Springs Desert Park.
EcoFair is organised by the Arid Lands Environment Centre, as part of National Science Week, and is sponsored by the Australian Government’s Inspiring Australia Initiative, as well as a range of local community sponsors. The event is a focal point for scientific research and sustainability initiatives that exist in Central Australia, it shares the expertise of high profile science and sustainability guests, and encourages community discussion on how to live together sustainably in the desert.
Lesley Hughes is a Distinguished Professor of Biology and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Integrity & Development) at Macquarie University. Her research has mainly focused on the impacts of climate change on species and ecosystems. Claire O’Rourke is the National Director of Solar Citizens, a national solar advocacy group that has just released the Home Grown Power Plan - a comprehensive blueprint for repowering Australia’s homes and businesses with 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
Ecofair Ambassador, Costa Georgiadis from Gardening Australia will also be returning for the duration of EcoFair, not only sharing his gardening expertise but also his valuable social media experience through his presentation “The Science of Social Media”.
“One of the great features of the desertSMART EcoFair is the opportunity to listen to the expertise of scientists, local entrepreneurs and change-makers and learn more about how to engage with the forces that shape our world,” said Nicole Pietsch, desertSMART EcoFair.
“Change is happening rapidly and is being fuelled by science, improvements in technology and social entrepreneurs, so much so that communities, local councils and even whole countries are aiming to be 100% powered by renewable energy by 2030. It’s an incredibly exciting time, and we are looking forward to our guest speakers sharing their knowledge and expertise in these areas,” said Nicole Pietsch.
For more information: www.ecofair.org.au
Check out Costa's Walkabout from EcoFair 2016