Minister Power officially marks World Environment Day in Newbridge
Chamber of Commerce talks to focus on environmental protection and energy issues
Newbridge,
5th June 2008
Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Seán Power TD, today officially opened the first in a series of environmentally-themed talks, organised by Newbridge Chamber of Commerce.
The talks will take place over a number of weeks, to officially mark the United Nation’s “World Environment Day”, which takes place today, June 5th, and will focus on subjects such as water conservation, waste water treatment and energy-efficiency.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Power said, “We are faced with the responsibility of protecting our environment. Fossil fuels production is at a peak, many of our delicate ecosystems are being damaged, and the global temperature is changing. Undoubtedly, human activity is a principle factor in climate change and we therefore must recognise the need to mitigate the effect of this activity.
It is crucial that we not only raise awareness about environmental protection issues such as water conservation and energy efficiency, but that we also take specific and effective action. World Environment Day highlights the urgent need for an international collective response to the environmental problems we are faced with, but this begins at a local level. It is not enough to “leave it to the others”. We must all play our part, by making real changes in our lifestyles and actually becoming aware of the environment in which we live.
I am delighted that Newbridge Chamber of Commerce has taken the initiative and organised this series of talks, which without doubt, will raise important questions and stimulate an enthusiastic response here among the people of Newbridge, and wider Kildare. I wish all involved the very best of luck.”
ENDS
Note for Editors:
World Environment Day is an annual event, organised by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) which takes place on June 5th. Its purpose is to create awareness and an understanding of environmental issues worldwide. Further information available at: http://www.unep.org/wed/2008/english/About_WED_2008/index.asp