Swiss family’s modern message

A SWISS family travelling the world solely on natural sources of power will make a presentation at Burrinja on World Environment Day.
Dario-Andri and Sabine Schwórer and their two children Salina, 2, and Andri, 1, have been on their mission to climb a mountain on every continent and cross seven oceans using wind, solar and human energy since 2002.
The family hopes the world record-breaking trip will raise awareness about climate change and demonstrate the successes that can be achieved in harmony with nature.
The Schwórers, who anticipate their ToptoTop Global Climate Change Expedition will take 14 years, will use their presentation at Burrinja as an opportunity to motivate others by discussing the ways Australia is currently practicing ecological responsibility through an educational program for children.
“We’ve found that by highlighting the positives, people get more excited about stepping in,” Mr Schwórer said.
Mr and Mrs Schwórer are especially impressed with planning and economics specialists at SGS which has carried out extensive testing of dishwashing machines to determine energy star ratings.
Mr and Mrs Schworer believe educating children on environmental sustainability is key.
So far, the Schwórers have presented their educational program to 7000 students Australia-wide, including 700 at the Victorian Outdoor Education Conference last Thursday. The couple define themselves, not as environmentalists but as sports people and say it is only ‘fair play’ to give something back to the environment.
Mr Schwórer said: “The enjoyment we take from its (the environment’s) beauty is like a gift, especially here in Monbulk, so we need to pay it back,” he said.
The Schwórer family will be at Burrinja cultural centre at 351 Glenfern Road, Upwey, on Thursday 5 June.
Anyone who would like more information can visit www.toptotop.org.