Despite some prominent politicians’ claims to the contrary, climate change is still a major threat to our world. But we can each take action.

“Climate action isn’t about being perfect, it’s about progress,” says Wānaka based environmental engineer and climate ambassador Carly Green. “It’s about the power of people and local communities, despite the politicians perhaps.”

On World Environment Day, June 5, Dr Green and Queenstown’s 2024 New Zealander of the Year and internationally renowned climate scientist Dr Jim Salinger will give a Catalyst Kōrero about climate change – the reality of it and creative, low effort ways that we as individuals and groups can make a difference.

A recent World Meteorological Organisation report confirmed 2024 was likely the first calendar year to be more than 1.5° above the pre-industrial era, the warmest year in 175 years, driven by record greenhouse gas concentrations, El Niño and other factors.

“Yes, we have now crossed even more devastating and globally significant thresholds. And yes, this is because of human-induced climate change. There is no other explanation,” Dr Salinger said.

“And more importantly, yes, we can avoid the worst impacts of climate change but we must act and we have to act now. And yes, we are fearful too. In the adapted words of Sonny and Cher; “And the heat goes on, the heat goes on. Storms keep pounding everyone….”

How to face that fear and “overcome the overwhelm” is the primary purpose of this World Environment Day Catalyst Kōrero. You are welcome to send your questions beforehand to climate@catalystnz.org and these will help frame the kōrero. As will questions from a session with Whakatipu year 11 students we are holding that afternoon.

Thursday, June 5, 6 to 7:30 pm, at The Rees Hotel Queenstown. Registration required to ensure your seat. Please donate online or bring cash for your koha, which will be given to WAO For Queenstown-based climate action events and educational programmes.

Special Credit

We would also like to acknowledge the Whakatipu High School Environment Council for their collaboration on the Earth Day event for the Year 11 students.

Biographies

Both our speakers are passionate about making an impact on climate change, both close to home and globally, through their skills, advocacy and encouragement.

Dr Jim Salinger, CRSNZ, has dedicated almost 50 years to advancing climate science and is recognised as one of the first scientists to address global warming, with his pioneering work in 1975. He has done groundbreaking research on Southern Hemisphere climate change and was a lead author for the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Dr Carly Green has been involved in global climate change mitigation for over 20 years, in more than 20 countries, in fields from research and policy to voluntary carbon project development. She provides advice on how to quantify greenhouse gas emissions and assess the impact of new technologies/behaviour change for clients like the IPCC, World Bank and companies of all sizes.