Dubbo helps map future of environmental education
13 September 2001
Environmental educators from Dubbo's industry, community and government sectors will have their say this week on a new blueprint for environmental education in NSW.
The NSW Council on Environmental Education (CEE) will convene one of a series of statewide workshops at the Western Plains Zoo this Friday (14 September) to hear local views on its Working Paper Environmental Education in NSW: Towards a three year plan. The final plan will be presented to the Government in November.
Council Chair Associate Professor Ronnie Harding said the draft plan sets out a new strategic direction for environmental education in NSW based on co-ordination of efforts across state and local government, industry, community organisations and the education sector.
"The Paper proposes a greater integration of education with regulation and other strategies to improve environmental outcomes," she said.
"Education is a crucial part of protecting the environment and creating a sustainable NSW.
"In the latest Who Cares about the Environment survey, the NSW community rated education as the single most important thing that the Government can do to protect the environment.
"At the forum we are looking for local insights into how educators from all sectors can best work together to address the environmental challenges we face," she said.
Dr Harding said environmental educators and other stakeholders can offer feedback on the Working Paper by attending the open forum at the Western Plains Zoo from 9.30am to 1.00pm this Thursday. A statewide consultation process began on Monday (10 September) with an open forum in Sydney opened by Environment Minister Mr Bob Debus. Meetings in Port Macquarie, Lismore and Kiama are also being held.
People are also invited to comment on the draft plan by sending written submissions before 28 September 2001. The Working Paper is available by visiting the Council's website www.epa.nsw.gov.au/cee or by contacting the EPA's Pollution Line 131 555.
Media contact: Ariane Rummery 9995 5347