SCIENTISTS AND TEACHERS ADDING EXCITEMENT TO CHEMISTRY

Scientists from the Department of Natural Resources and Water (NRW) will showcase practical ways to help the environment when they meet with science teachers at Cairns State High School tomorrow (September 12).

The workshop is part of an innovative Queensland approach to demonstrate in the high school syllabus how chemistry is used in real world environmental situations.

Minister for Natural Resources and Water Craig Wallace said the scientists had teamed up with the Department of Education, Training and the Arts, the Science Teachers’ Association of Queensland and the Australian Society of Soil Science.

The team is developing packages for schools that teach scientific principles with real life examples.

“Chemistry and science can be exciting,” Mr Wallace said.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s scientists – we need to show them how they can transform the science they are learning at school into a rewarding career option that will benefit the whole community.”

Dr Angus McElnea from NRW will use a local case study from the East Trinity Acid Sulfate Remediation Project opposite Cairns Harbour. Prior to treatment, the site released sulfuric acid and heavy metals into the ocean, killing marine life and damaging the local environment.

Dr McElnea will demonstrate how to use chemistry to treat acid sulfate soils through studying their chemical properties, sampling the soils and measuring acidity.

“Scientists from my department have been recognised internationally for the marvellous soil remediation work they have done at East Trinity. They are world leaders at treating acid sulfate soils,” Mr Wallace said.

NRW scientists also participated in a similar workshop with Science Teachers in Brisbane last month, and will continue to seek opportunities to support science education in Queensland schools.

Media inquiries: Caroline Kaurila, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0414 213 954.