Disrupted salamander populations signs of a changing climate.
A 2 year study conducted by the Korea Forest Research Institute has found that Jeju Island salamanders are laying their eggs over a month earlier seasonally, which the scientists are linking to global warming. And on the other side of the world, a team of US scientists who studied Guatemalan salamanders in the 1970s recently returned there to find many of the species completely gone, with others in sharp decline. The researchers state that global warming is one of the main reasons for their disappearance, as the warming weather pushes the amphibians to new territories and also supports the spread of fungal diseases such as the deadly chytrid. Researcher Dr. David Wake emphasized the only effective solution: “We need to promote activities that reduce the impact of climate change.”

Many thanks, South Korean and US scientists, for bringing to our attention the delicate balance of our environment. Let us quickly switch to eco-friendly lifestyles for the sake of all residents of our biosphere.


Ecuadorian Communities Conserve Forests to Combat Poverty
Ecuador offers green jobs for Amazon conservation. As part of the country’s Forest Partnership program, the Ministry of Environment has initiated a conservation project that employs 15,000 local and indigenous people to help conserve some 165,000 hectares of forest. An agreement was signed in December 2008 whereby the government will pay individuals and communities for their efforts in protecting the land. Ecuadorian Minister of Environment Marcela Aguiñaga said the program showed that it is possible to address conservation and climate change while alleviating poverty.

A green salute, Ecuador, for conserving the lungs of our Earth while supporting indigenous communities. May Heaven grace such efforts as yours to preserve and protect our beautiful planet.

World youth discuss climate change solutions at UN
Youths gather at the United Nations for global warming. The “Interactive Dialogue on Climate Change Solutions” event was sponsored by the United Nations Program on Youth and this year attracted young people’s organizations worldwide. Attendees gathered in New York, USA on Monday to discuss the effects of climate change and possible solutions. Their viewpoints will be added to the 2009 World Youth Report, “Youth and Climate Change,” to be released later this year.

Hats off, international youth, for your care and valued contributions. With ideas and enthusiasm such as yours, surely we can walk sustainably toward a joyful tomorrow for all in our world.
 
Leonardo DiCaprio Gets International Green Film Award
Leo DiCaprio wins green award at Cinema for Peace. At the 8th annual Cinema for Peace Gala Night, held in Berlin, Germany, Mr. Leonardo DiCaprio was honored for his documentary “The 11th Hour” with the event’s International Green Film Award, which was presented by former Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding cinematic eco-activism, with the recipient also being granted US$250,000 to help raise public awareness through an environmental foundation or film project.

We join in applause for your deserved recognition, Leonardo DiCaprio. May your shining star continue to light the way toward a greener Earth.