Greenhouse gas sign
More than 160 local residents gathered at Umina Beach to make a human sign in support of a greenhouse gas target of 350 parts per million on October 24.
Local groups including the Central Coast branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation, the Community Environment Network, Peninsula Environment Group and the Climate Action Group Central Coast were involved.
"The 350 stands for the level of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere, measured in parts per million, that scientists tell us we need to get back to in order to halt dangerous climate change," event organiser Ms Rachel Lonie said.
"Current levels are now at around 390 parts per million, way above our pre industrial levels of 275ppm.
"Climate negotiators and politicians are urged to adopt 350 as their target in the climate negotiations in Copenhagen this December.
"The likely impacts of climate change are dire and overwhelming.
"The message sent by participants at Umina Beach was that a solution is possible and that people expect their leaders to work very hard over the next two months to reach a global agreement to make this achievable.
"This part of Umina Beach and other coastal beaches won't be here for future generations unless we all act together and let our politicians know that something must be done now.
"This part of the beach won't be here for future generations unless we all act together and let our politicians know that something must be done now."
The event was part of an international day of action where more than 5200 groups of people in more than 180 countries joined together to send a message on the need for climate action.
More information about the 350.org movement visit www.350.org
Press release, 25 Oct 2009
Rachel Lonie, 350.org