CLIMATE change and poverty were the topics of the day at The Youthie as not-for-profit youth organisation Oaktree made a stop in Tamworth for its Collective Future Speaking Tour.
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Tamworth is the only regional stop on the speaking tour as the organisation travels the country, “sparking conversation” on climate change and raising pressing environmental concerns in the Asia-Pacific.
Oaktree head of campaigns Tim Lo Surdo said an intimate crowd turned out for the forum and was very willing to participate in discussions.
Speakers at the event included 2014 NSW Sustainable Farmers of the Year Derek and Kirrily Blomfield from the Liverpool Plains, who spoke about the agricultural implications of climate change, while Tamworth local Dr Robin Gunning talked about environmental activism.
Mr Lo Surdo said the overarching theme of the tour was raising awareness about climate change further entrenching poor communities into poverty.
“It’s an environmental issue and an issue of justice,” Mr Lo Surdo said.
“Poorer communities have an inability to act on climate change.
“One intense weather event can wipe out years of progress on poverty.
“The Asia-Pacific is one of the most disaster-prone areas in the world and it’s one of Australia’s core economic trading partners.”
