Introduction

Parramatta Climate Action Network (ParraCAN) aims to provide a forum for organisations, agencies and individuals to collaborate for action and climate education. Members of ParraCAN share ideas to coordinate efforts and advocate policy reform. They also collate learning resources and support integration of climate literacy into formal and informal education. Initiatives of ParraCAN include efforts to raise awareness and educate the public about climate change, sustainability and related issues, as well as supporting actions to address the urgency of global warming. ParraCAN's brochures and other materials feature accurate scientific information and engaging learning experiences, using multiple pathways to reach broad and diverse audiences.

Parramatta Climate Action Network (ParraCAN) was influenced by the following scientific organisations and individuals: James Hansen of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the UNFCC, David Spratt and Philip Sutton's book, Climate Code Red, and Tim Flannery's book The Weather Makers. These distinguished groups of scientists and educators have defined a set of essential principles and scientific thinking skills that a climate-literate person should understand. To this end, these scientists provide a common set of ideas that are scientifically accurate. In this way, they provide benchmarks for achievable goals.

As the world confronts the reality of global climate change, education has emerged as a crucial issue. An informed public should:

(a) understand the natural and human factors that affect climate;

(b) comprehend the potential dangers of large-scale impacts of climate change;

(c) consider the personal, regional and national responsibilities that might help reduce the rate and magnitude of climate change; and

(d) act to ensure resilient communities and a sustainable world.

This requires a multi-faceted approach to climate education in communities, learning institutions, museums, websites, public events and other information sources, with the support and direct involvement of educators and the climate movement, for example in attending the annual Climate Action Summit.

Dated 14 July 2011