Frequently Asked Questions

It is clear that assembling people from all around the world will generate significant travel related carbon emissions, as may the associated life-cycle impact of the conference itself, however there are several responses to this concern:

• part of expanding our influence inevitably means getting together periodically to exchange our experiences and enhance our learning. Whilst much of this can occur remotely (hence the proposal to make this an event held only once every 4 yrs), there are certain instances where this cannot be substituted - think of the Masters program itself or indeed any other high profile conference or event you may have attended in the past. The key is to be judicious about which events you choose to attend - help us, help you by making this an event truly worth making a sacrifice for!
• many of us feel considerable guilt about emissions however this, in limited circumstances, is a necessary ‘trade-off’ in order to gain something valuable that will help accelerate the overall drive towards sustainability
• carbon offsets, while contentious, do provide a short term management of this problem and whilst not a ’solution’, offer a practical and tangible way to negotiate this aspect of the gathering

Please note that an accredited carbon offset scheme will be selected to offset all travel and other activity related to this gathering and presented to the group as part of the conference - details to come later.

The moth is representative of a particular species found in the Australian Alpine National Park, where the majority of the conference and activities will be held. The ‘Bogong moth’ is a creature of some significance to the indigenous people of this area (both spiritually and as a food source) and seemed an appropriate symbol for MSLS alumni (below) hence it was chosen as the symbol of this gathering!

• moths to a flame, attracted to the light
• transforming from pupae into beautiful winged creatues
• a small group of us flapping our wings, and creating storms of energy and wonder on the other side of the world
• flitting here and there, bogong moths travel great distance each year…