Concerned parents have gathered at Ocean Grove main beach to call on the federal government to adopt a bold, science-based 2035 climate target.
The community action was part of a national month of mobilisation led by Parents for Climate in response to the federal government’s upcoming decision on Australia’s 2035 climate target.
The event was held on August 10 with a similar event in Torquay on August 17.
“As a parent, I think about the world my kids will inherit,” Geelong-Bellarine-Surfcoast Parents for Climate local group Laura Billings said.
“Unless we drastically cut emissions this decade, they’ll face more fires, floods, heatwaves and hardship. Our leaders have a legal obligation and duty of care to protect children-not delay action.”
Holding signs reading ‘Future on the Line’, ‘Net zero by 2035’, and ‘Cut Pollution, Not Our Kids’ Future’, local families called on the government to commit to reducing emissions to net zero by 2035, in line with the best available science and Australia’s obligations under international law.
“Kids born today will be in primary school by 2035 (and) that’s not some distant future-it’s right around the corner,” Ms Billings said.
“We’re making a stand as the decisions made today will deeply affect their tomorrow.
“The science is clear. The law is clear. And so is the voice of our communities. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to do the right thing. Our kids are counting on us.”
