Water supplies scarce US states.

The reservoir feeding Hillsborough County in the state of Florida is currently at dangerously low levels, leading experts to predict it may be dry by April 2009 without conservation measures along with more rains. The entire region has received little rainfall over the past three years. Meanwhile across the nation, due to the most serious water shortage in the last three decades, hundreds of families in Mendota, California, known as the produce capital of the US, have been left without income as crops are failing because of the drought.

We pray for the welfare of the residents of Hillsborough and Mendota and that they may soon receive the blessing of rain. Let us all act now in adopting the efficient plant-based diet which best conserves this precious resource.

 
Asian cities take acting to counter climate change. 

In Japan, the Tokyo city government has set a goal of lessening overall carbon emissions 25% by 2020 while Seoul, South Korea has done similarly. Singapore is implementing adaptive measures to cope with rising sea levels through a combination of drainage infrastructure, land reclamation projects, and raising up low-lying areas. China is building a model green city called Dongtan that will use 64% less energy than the average city, while Baoding city is already employing many sustainable energy resources. We laud the eco-friendly endeavors of all these cities across the great continent of Asia. May your shining examples remind us all to strive for greater care of our environment to protect the well-being of all her inhabitants.
 
World's first ecocomputer produced in Ireland

Irish company develops biodegradable computer. With a keyboard, monitor and computer casing composed of recycled natural materials, the computer itself uses 30 percent less energy than comparable models. Called the Iameco, this new product from Ireland’s MicroPro Computers can also have seeds of native plants embedded in its wood panels during manufacture so that when the components are buried, they more easily decompose, allowing new plants to grow. What a delightful green innovation! Hats off, MicroPro Computers, for this eco-advancement. We wish blossoming success for endeavors such as yours that combine useful products with concern for our Mother Earth.

1,000 new jungle species discovered

Over 1,000 new species discovered. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) recently reported that a total of 1,000 new jungle species have been found in the Greater Mekong region of Âu Lạc (Vietnam), Cambodia and Laos over the past decade. The region is home to hundreds of mammal species, including the critically endangered Indochinese tiger. However, this abundant biodiversity could be lost to large-scale industrial projects in the area.

Thus, the World Wildlife Fund is collaborating with local research institutions to encourage governments and industries to conserve this natural treasure. Many thanks, World Wildlife Fund and all those helping to ensure the preservation of the rich flora and fauna found in the Greater Mekong region. May our precious co-inhabitants and the environment flourish through our caring and eco-friendly actions.