Government distributes climate change film to all secondary schools
Al Gore's climate change documentary An Inconvenient Truth will be sent to every secondary school in England, Environment Secretary David Miliband and Education Secretary Alan Johnson announced today.
The film, which will form part of a climate change pack, documents the former US vice president's personal mission to highlight the issues surrounding global warming and inspire actions to prevent it.
"The debate over the science of climate change is well and truly over, as demonstrated by the publication of today's report by the IPCC," said Mr Miliband.
"Our energies should now be channelled into how we respond in an innovative and positive way in moving to a low carbon future.
"I was struck by the visual evidence the film provides, making clear that the changing climate is already having an impact on our world today, from Mount Kilimanjaro to the Himalayan mountains.
"As the film shows, there's no reason to feel helpless in the face of this challenge. Everyone can play a part along with government and business in making a positive contribution in helping to prevent climate change."
Mr Johnson said that influencing the opinions of children was crucial to developing a long term view on the environment among the public.
"With rising sea temperatures, melting ice caps and frequent reminders about our own 'carbon footprints', we should all be thinking about what we can do to preserve the planet for future generations. Children are the key to changing society's long term attitudes to the environment. Not only are they passionate about saving the planet but children also have a big influence over their own families lifestyles and behaviour.
"Al Gore's film is a powerful message about the fragility of our planet and I'm delighted that we are able to make sure every secondary school in the country has a copy to stimulate children into discussing climate change and global warming in school classes."
The DVD will go to 3,385 secondary schools in England. It make up part of a Sustainable Schools year of action to help all schools become models of sustainable best practice.
Other tools and support being produced include teacher resource packs, a pupil 'detective kit', guidance for bursars and governors and a new teaching award.
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Page published: 2 February 2007