Principal's Note

Hot is not always cool. In a world with faster and faster communications, we need to develop really good research skills so that we can filter out truthfrom opinion and even mischief. That is why Facebook has ways of switching off whole sections – to help us protect our information from unwanted stalkers.

Not all information is personal. Sometimes we need to know about things that affect everyone in the whole world. Did you know that 350 parts per million is considered by many scientists across the world as the highest safe level of carbon dioxide gas in our atmosphere? Doesn’t seem much. Did you know that levels are already over 385 ppm?

Many scientists believe that carbon dioxide levels cause global warming. The oceans’ temperatures are increasing so ice is melting and sea levels are rising. If most of your country is barely one metre above sea level already, like Bangladesh and parts of Africa and India, this is really serious.

So what are New Zealanders doing about it? More than 45 events are planned across New Zealand on International Climate Change Day to increase environmental awareness. At a personal level, you can take action by meeting at Avalon Park on Saturday 24 October to show you care. Look for more news in the local press or speak with the Rev Jean Malcolm at Saint James Church.

Yours sincerely

Dr Jillian de Araugo

Executive Principal