Engineers warn PM: Kyoto is not enough

Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd has been warned that signing the Kyoto protocol won't be enough to tackle global warming in Australia.

In an open letter to the new PM, the Australian chairman of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), Russell Scott, has warned Rudd that a shortage of scientists and engineers will damage the country's efforts to tackle the problems caused by global warming.

"Our planet and the Australian economy need scientists and engineers more now than at any time in our past," said the letter.

"Whatever the conclusions of discussions in Bali, any long-term plans will be significantly hindered if we cannot supply the required quantity and quality of young scientists and engineers."

The letter recommends five key initiatives, designed to get more young people to consider a career in science and engineering.

"IChemE recommends better pay for science teachers in schools to attract more top graduates into teaching; properly qualified teachers in each science discipline (a physicist teaching physics etc); first-rate careers advice, including opportunities to hear from young scientists and engineers in industry; greater support for science and engineering graduates in repaying their students debts; and a long-term target of a science specialist in every Australian primary school."

The call to action comes just weeks after the launch of the IChemE's whynotchemeng campaign in Australia. Designed to teach 14- to 18-year-olds about the benefits of a career in chemical engineering, the program has shown great success after its launch in the UK, increasing applications and admissions to study the subject in UK universities.

IChemE chief executive, Dr David Brown said that IChemE wants to help the new government be at the heart of the international effort to combat global warming.

"Chemical engineers will play a key role in helping Australia build a prosperous, cleaner, safer and more sustainable society," he said.

"We are ready to offer our support to the new Prime Minister in any way possible."