Congo set to halt most logging
Logging greatly reduced in Congo. The Congo Basin, which makes up over 25% of the world’s tropical forest, had been losing more than 800,000 hectares annually due to logging, mining and land clearance for farming. Now, through an evaluation process supported by World Bank, the Environment Ministry of the Democratic Republic of Congo has halted 91, or nearly 60 percent, of the country’s 156 timber contracts. This will save almost 13 million hectares of forests from logging. Our gratitude, Democratic Republic of Congo and World Bank, for this important step towards conserving our life-giving forests. May many nations enact similarly noble measures to ensure the continuation of our planet’s unique and beautiful biodiversity.


Secret gift to save ancient woods
UK woodland conservation charity expands through anonymous gift. The Woodland Trust organization in the United Kingdom has received US$220,000 from a quietly giving Canadian to assist in purchasing a woodland area near Derry in Northern Ireland. The organization plans a 38,000 native tree planting on the 58-acre site, linking woodlands and providing a larger area for flora and fauna, including the rare red squirrel. Heaven smiles, kind Canadian donor, on your gift to green and expand the homes of our precious co-inhabitants. Through partnerships such as yours, surely we will soon see the balance restored to our treasured Mother Earth.

New Solar Cooking Technology Program Successful
Solar cooking is heating up in Gambia. Coordinator of the President's International Award solar cooking project, Mr. Lamin Sawo, said that more than 1,000 women have been trained in this sustainable technology, whose goal is also one of helping the women avoid long distance travel to find wood for fuel use. With women in 7 villages so far who have been taught how to construct and use solar panels for cooking, Mr. Sawo said there are plans to teach more as well as provide them with the means to train others. Bravo, Mr. Sawo and Gambia for improving women’s lives through these eco-friendly opportunities. May families throughout your beautiful land flourish in sustainable fulfillment and success.


Efficiency Can Reduce Electricity Consumption Growth Rate 22%
Energy efficiency can go a long way. A new report from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in the United States says that energy efficiency programs nationwide could reduce the growth of electricity demand by 22 percent, which translates to a power savings of approximately 14 times the annual electricity consumption of New York City by 2030. This trend is in line with national goals to meet energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. Electric Power Research Institute, we appreciate this heartening news that shows how we can each contribute by utilizing energy resources more intelligently. Let us all be encouraged toward considerate and conscious living that creates a better environment each day.