In 2008, the Kerkenes Eco-Center program of activities and public outreach focused on global issues that are causing great concern across the planet. Climate Change now appears as a real threat at our doorstep. A known quote from a German Theologian features on the information material:

'The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children.' Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Leaflets and posters have been produced for distribution to all stakeholders, local authorities and educational institutions. They focus on the importance of a low-carbon economy and to all voice an appeal to

'Choose Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future'.

Some illustrated explanations summarise the issue:

• Plants use carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. The sun is a source of energy. Forests that have absorbed carbon dioxide have been fossilised and transformed into petroleum, coal and gas. Burning these fossil fuels for energy releases carbon dioxide back to the atmosphere.

• Deforestation and growing industrialisation cause drastic increases in carbon emissions. The resulting "green house effect", which raises temperatures and drives climate change, is cause for global concern.

The Kerkenes Eco-Center Team and ŞAH-DER were very active during the fall of 2008, everyone striving to 'Think Globally, Act Locally' as suggested by René Dubos. The ladies assiduously used every bit of available solar energy to extend the production season well into the autumn months while others were organising the scheduled events that would conclude a very successful program.