Far North advocate gets behind and spreads message of Run4Planet movement
MOVEMENT
The Pace running group held a BBQ at Smithfeld at the weekend to help spread and promote the Run4planet message about continuing to protect and preserve the mighty Great Barrier Reef.
Run4planet is a free climate awareness movement designed as an easy way for Australians to participate in saving coral species through two specific reef projects.
The weekend's support was led by passionate climate supporter, 21 year old Izzy Dix, who also issued free reefies (head scarves) to all attendees.
“I wanted to do something to raise awareness about environmental conservation and sustainable living and I think a healthier lifestyle can help lead to a healthier planet," Izzy told Newsport.
A key voice said it remains easy to be a part of the movement.
“The great thing is, you don’t have to run to support this cause," Run4planet founder Sam Cullen explained.
"We want every Australian to be able to get involved. Participation is just registering and people are encouraged to register for free at run4planet.org with every registration helping critical reef projects.
"No one has to dedicate an activity or pledge, that just enhances their involvement."
Of the two projects involved, Forever Reef project will collect specimens of all the world’s coral species and preserve them in a controlled environment resembling a Coral Arc.
Registrations also directly support a reef cooperative recovery day where coral fragments will be planted to areas requiring restoration from the effects of climate change.
There is also an opportunity to dedicate an activity or make a personal pledge to proactively benefit climate action such as not using single use plastic water bottles or coffee cups.
Participants could also win a trip to Port Douglas to join coral scientists on a coral planting expedition.
“What makes this year so important is the combination of the El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole so we’re expecting a warmer summer which leads to coral bleaching, which is further motivation to take action and protect as many coral species as possible,” Mr Cullen reiterated.
The movement started 12 years ago supporting James Cook University ocean research with a running event and has now transitioned to a social movement.
Crucially, Run4planet is supported by both the Australian and Queensland Governments to ensure the climate conversation is taken across Australia.
“I ran in the run4reef, 2022 with my daughter and look forward to seeing people right across the country get behind run4planet this year," Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef Senator Nita Green said.
Thank you!
Newsport thanks its advertising partners for their support in the delivery of daily community news to the Douglas Shire. Public interest journalism is a fundamental part of every community.
Got a news tip? Let us know! Send your news tips or submit a letter to the editor here.
* Comments are the opinions of readers and do not represent the views of Newsport, its staff or affiliates. Reader comments on Newsport are moderated before publication to promote valuable, civil, and healthy community debate. Visit our comment guidelines if your comment has not been approved for publication.