Climate Change - what is it?

You might have heard about climate change on the news, in the newspaper or at school. But what is climate change?

Our atmosphere is full of gases, like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, methane and oxygen. These are called greenhouse gases, and these gases are being made all the time. This has always happened, and having the right amount in our atmosphere helps to keep in enough of the sun's heat to warm the Earth. The problem is, too many of these gases are being trapped. Extra gases are made by things like the transport we use, farms and factories, and the energy we need to make technology work. They are holding in more of the sun's rays than ever before, heating up the planet (global warming).

Scientists have found that this build-up of gases is changing our earth's climate. This is climate change.

Visit www.youtube.com. Search for 'on top of our planet'.

EARTH HOUR - What is it?

This event will take place on Saturday 27 March at 8.30pm. Last year, Earth Hour reached a billion people and over half of New Zealand took part!

What do you know about it? Post a message and tell us why it is so important.

Litter free lunch day

We had our first 'litter free' lunch day recently. Many students got involved and brought along their lunches using a container that was 'friendly' to the environment. These included; reusable bags, lunchboxes with compartments, separate containers and paper wrap. Well done all those who took part!

Don't stop now! Let's keep it going and do this all the time - this is one thing we can do to help reduce plastic in our environment.

Welcome to 2010!

We have many Porritt students who are keen to be involved in our Eco Kids Club. It was exciting to have so many turn up at our first meeting.
During 2010, we will continue to look at ways we can look after our school environment and encourage others to do the same. It'll be fun and we'll learn lots along the way!