On the picture is me ( Kenneth ) from Tanzania on the right and my friend Sebataolo from Lesotho. As International students in Stellenbosch University we decided to take part in the 350 global initiatives even though we are far from home nature is our priority.
350 March day ( 24 Saturday 2009 ) Stellenbosch , South Africa !
24th October is an international day for climate action. The science Behind 350 is simply 350 parts per million Of Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere . In which parts per million is the way of measuring the concentrations of different gases, therefore the ratio of carbon dioxide to the rest of the molecules in the atmosphere can be expressed in this way.
There is a necessity of carbon in the atmosphere but the question is how much is it needed?
Currently the planet has almost 390 parts per million CO2 and the figure is rising rapidly by about 2 parts per million every year. This has been contributed from our daily consumption of energy which relies on coal or oil that emits carbon dioxide and other heat trapping gases. The facts of global warming are commonly known which mainly include sea levels rising, ice caps melting, drought and the temperature level increasing.
The answer according to 350.org is “350 parts per million is what many scientists, climate experts, and progressive national governments are now saying is the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere” .
The global mission is to have a global awareness of what is going on and stand as one to support efforts of saving the deteriorating environment. In other word cut Carbon emission back to 350 parts per million of Carbon dioxide.
Stellenbosch University joined millions of other people in the world to bring this matter to the world leader’s attention.
And the following was all about it
First was the preparation for the big day by making banners and posting posters all over campus to make all students aware of the big day that was ahead .
Having a table approaching student to sign up for the event and to enlightening them on 350 climate act was the second step.
The morning of 24th October started with painting some posters and banners that people were supposed to carry. People gathered at the Admin B at Stellenbosch university to help out in any possible means plus painting themselves green. 
We painted ourselves with green colour just to embrace the green nature that we are protecting. And green also represents life, fertility, rebirth and hope! – According to Karine who was one of the main organizers.
The march started on campus then we went through the historical centre via Church st. and finish on Die Braak (Park) on Bird St.
Everyone was singing with joy across the streets of Stellenbosch.
There were over 300 people and the match was a success. It was a great opportunity also to educate Stellenbosch civilians, municipal officials and the community the significance of 350 global act. We finally took a picture together showing a 350 pretty much from every possible angles.
You can take part too by creating a blog, you tube video, facebook group or e-mail friends.
Together we can save the planet.
Many thanks to Matthew Haden ( Chair person – Environmental affairs SRC ) , and Karine ( affiliated student at Stellenbosch University – Masters in Ecology Conservation ), SRC office ( Student Representative Council – Stellenbosch University ) , Stellenbosch University and the Students , Stellenbosch Municipality for using the premises and everyone who took part in every possible way.
For more Information visit 350.org
Kenneth Mbwanji
Student – Stellenbosch university (South africa)
Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology .
Member of the Sub Committee – Environmental affairs ( SRC).
Stellenbosch University 2009.
