US beach and island succumb to the rising sea.
The once-picturesque Broad Beach in Malibu, California, has now been reduced to a narrow strip of sand. Not only that, the sea walls that have been constructed to protect from rising waters may have an opposite effect, as they multiply the energy of the waves and speed the rate of sand erosion. In the state of Louisiana, the island named Isle de Jean Charles, which was once 5 miles wide, with groves of Cypress trees and wildlife, is today about a quarter-mile wide and bare. Along with the endangered coastline are the threatened livelihood and culture of the 20 families belonging to the French-speaking Native American Biloxi-Chitimacha tribe that still reside on the island. We pray for safety and well-being of all whose lives are affected by this and other aspects of our planet’s urgent situation. Let us all do our part in alleviating these conditions through our kinder stewardship of our precious Earth.




World Day for the Abolition of Meat / Climate Action Summit
Veg Climate Alliance sponsors a World Day for the abolition of meat. The very first World Day for the Abolition of Meat will be held on January 31, 2009, where various organizations around the world will actively promote the idea of forgoing animal products and raise awareness of animal welfare issues as well as the benefits of an animal-free diet. Also beginning on January 31 is the Climate Action Summit, which is being joined by different groups across Australia to call on the government for immediate action on global warming. Heaven bless the Veg Climate Alliance and all others involved in this noble movement. Wishing your efforts abundant success in helping countless people realize the benefits of the vegetarian lifestyle as the most effective solution to climate change.

Tunisia reports 9% drop in energy consumption
Tunisia increases energy-efficiency. Public campaigns encouraging the use of sustainable sources of energy are being credited with a 9% decrease in 2008 energy consumption of the nation’s companies and local energy utilities, with a savings equivalent to 800,000 tons of oil. The government has announced a goal of reducing Tunisia’s oil consumption 1 million tons by 2011. What heartening news! May the world follow your shining example, Tunisia, in the quest for eco-friendly lifestyles and sustainable energy.

Transport ministers plot climate action in Japan
International meeting held for greener transportation. With air, sea and land transport currently contributing to 23% of the world’s carbon emissions, ministers from 22 nations met in Japan for a two-day discussion on reducing the CO2 emitted by this sector. The meeting is one of a series leading to the December 2009 summit in Denmark to agree upon a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, which has not included transportation up to now. We send our respectful support to all nations uniting to help solve the global problem of CO2 emissions and climate change. Our prayers for governments worldwide to help lead in green and noble ways so that all beings may continue to thrive on our irreplaceable Earth.