SCOOP! My Inspiration for Wave Riders
I was happier than a puffin with a beak full of sardines when SCOOP asked me to guest-edit their special Ocean issue. I founded Authors4Oceans because I believe that Climate Change, Conservation and Kindness are as critical to the school curriculum as maths and English and that it’s critical that we inspire, educate and give children the skills – and open hearts – they’ll need to heal and save our beautiful earth.
The COVID-19 pandemic is humanity’s wake-up call. Our planet is crying out for help. According to the Living Planet Report 2020, we’ve lost more than 68 per cent of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles since 1970. A million species are facing extinction and, without urgent change, our seas will soon have more plastic than fish. What gives me hope is the rise of young nature writers, conservationists and climate change activists such as Greta Thunberg, Dara McAnulty and Bella Lack. Their words and actions are touching hearts and creating positive change every day. But you don’t have to write a book or have thousands of social media followers to make a difference. A simple act of kindness – putting fresh water out for birds on a hot day or saying no to a plastic toy or bag that’ll end up in the oceans – can save a life. Be the change you want to see in your own home and community.