‘SCIENCE BY E-MAIL” – LEARNING HOW IT WORKS…THEN HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

29 March 2006 - The Australian Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Senator Ian Campbell, today announced a three year $105,000 sponsorship of the CSIRO’s online publication, Science by E-mail, to help improve Australian students’ understanding of the science behind the environment and how they can make a difference.
“It’s important for people of all ages to better understand our environment, how it works, and how we as individuals can make a difference in our everyday lives,” Senator Campbell said.
“There is some fascinating science associated with the environment. From complex ecosystems, global climate systems, ocean currents, whale migration and Antarctic ice cores right through to the development of new renewable and energy efficient technology – it’s all underpinned by science.
“This sponsorship will help our young people learn the importance of creating a sustainable environment – one that they and future generations will be able to enjoy as we do today.”
Senator Campbell announced the sponsorship at the National Museum where he presented compact fluorescent light bulbs to several students after they interviewed him about environmental issues.
“The scientific evidence reveals that small changes in human behaviour can significantly affect the environment, but this also means that by taking a few small actions we can have a positive impact on the environment,” Senator Campbell said.
“Installing compact-flourescent light bulbs is one example of the many simple, cost-effective ways to help create a sustainable environment.
“If all Australian households replaced their standard lightbulbs with compact fluorescent lamps, they would save the equivalent amount of electricity as generated by one 600-mg power station.”
Science by E-mail is a free online publication that is e-mailed to subscribers each Friday. Every edition contains a feature article about a scientific article, a science activity students can recreate at home or in the classroom, some quiz questions, and a review of a scientific website. There are currently more than 16,000 subscribers.
While Science by E-mail is written specifically for students, their parents and teachers, Australians of all ages and interests subscribe.