“Climate change still remains a difficult topic both nationally and internationally, with many

organisations still grappling with the best way to manage it for the future,” Professor

Palutikof said.

“The scale of the issues is massive and a lot of work remains to be done if we are to

avoid becoming more adversely affected.

“Unfortunately, if we sit back and do nothing about climate change, it is likely to be those

people in the economically disadvantaged ‘water limited’ regions such as Africa, who will

be most negatively impacted.

“Up until 2050, first world countries, including Australia, the UK and the US which are

‘temperature limited,’ will see an increase in crop yields due to the ongoing effects of

global warming.”

Held from July 19 to 23 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, this year’s

Congress will be themed Explore, Experience, Educate.

More than 600 delegates from organisations with a stake in environmental and

sustainability education are expected to take part in the international Congress, which will

hear from global experts about the latest in environmental research, industry and policy

developments, and educational programs.

The five-day program will encourage participants to learn and share new ways of thinking and to explore new trends in research and practice in environmental education.

The first two days of the program will focus on the science impact on climate change in

the Asia-Pacific, while day three provides an opportunity for young people to discuss the

nature and purpose of environmental education in the future.

Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in activities run in conjunction

with the Congress including showcasing the Queensland Department of Education and

Training’s Outdoor and Environmental Education Centres’ pedagogy and place,

Field trips on Saturday July 23 will give delegates the opportunity to experience the

leading environmental education practices that are in place throughout South-East

Queensland.

Participants will have the chance to network and engage with environmental educators

who work in schools, higher education, federal, state and local government agencies,

non-government organisations, industry, business and education. Sponsors of the event

include the Queensland Government, Griffith University, Auzion, Redland City Council,

the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and The Australian Association for

Environmental Education.

For more information about the program or any aspect of the Congress visit

www.weec2011.org