S Korean President wants to help N Korea restore forests

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak announces plans to help North Korea with reforestation. Years of deforestation have caused erosion and landslides, leading to crop failure and famine in North Korea. President Lee said, “`South Korea should begin now to cooperate on the forestation of North Korea. Such cooperation would not only help prepare for reunification, but also help conserve our land. In addition, it would also help us create a national value of environmental protection.” Thank you, Your Excellency, for your progressive initiative to renew North Korea’s forest ecosystems. Heaven bless your efforts with verdant success.

Steelcase Buys Naming Rights To Wind Farm

US office manufacturer purchases renewable energy credits (RECs). Steelcase, Inc., located in the northern US state of Michigan, has announced that it has purchased RECs from the new Wege wind energy farm in the southwestern state of Texas. This will enable Steelcase to offset 25% of its emissions. This will allow the wind farm to sell the wind-generated electricity to a local utility at affordable prices. We extend our appreciation Steelcase, Inc. and Wege wind energy farm for your environmental stewardship. May all companies and people be inspired by your example to protect our Mother Earth.
 
Motorway car-sharing lane opens

Carpool lane opens in Britain to improve air quality. In an effort to lighten congestion and lessen carbon emissions, a 1.7 mile stretch of road is now open and available only to vehicles with two or more occupants. Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly stated that an estimated 500 miles of freeway have been designated for new traffic improvements, including car-sharing lanes. Many thanks, Britain, for taking action to reduce harmful emissions and provide solutions for traffic congestion. May your citizens enjoy many more relaxed, cleaner and healthier rides.
 
Fish key to reef climate survival

Australian scientists say herbivorous fish are crucial to the survival of coral reefs. Speaking to lawmakers in the capital of Canberra, a group of scientists revealed that fish play an important role in protecting threatened coral reefs. They cited studies demonstrating that in protected areas, fish eat unwanted algae, helping coral to thrive. We offer our appreciation, scientists, for documenting the importance of a balanced ecosystem to ensure the survival of our coral reefs. May the rich diversity of marine life continue to thrive and flourish in our oceans.

Algae may help corals withstand warmer waters

Australian scientists discover algae that helps coral survive warming climate. Coral has a symbiotic relationship with certain types of algae. When oceans get too warm, the algae secrete a toxin that harms the coral. In order to survive, the coral starts to remove the algae. This process eventually leads to massive coral bleaching, which may subsequently result in coral die offs. Researchers in Australia have discovered a heat resistant strain of algae that helps coral survive warming oceans. It is hoped that these heat resistant algae can be used to repopulate bleached coral reefs. Our gratitude, Australian scientists, for this very promising news. May the Providence grace us to act wisely and quickly to halt global warming for the survival of our marine ecosphere.

Eco silver award for city college

English University honored for its eco-friendly endeavors. Bath Spa University has received a silver award from the Higher Education Funding Council for England. The University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Frank Morgan, said: "This award shows we take our responsibilities to protect this environment very seriously indeed. We feel strongly that higher education has an important wider role in achieving sustainability." Kudos, Bath Spa University! We applaud your efforts to preserve our shared planet. May all institutions of higher learning quickly set examples of sustainability for future generations.

PG&E Announces Solar School and Bright Ideas Grant Winners

US power company donates solar cells to Californian public schools. The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is giving 1.3 kilowatt solar power generators worth US$25,000 each to 40 schools throughout California. PG&E will also award grants of up to US$5,000 to 42 regional schools for solar science projects. PG&E spokesperson Ophelia Basgal said, “Educating and inspiring our future leaders about the importance of renewable energy and environmental stewardship is critical as we seek to address the challenges of climate change.” A big thank you Pacific Gas and Electric Company for supporting sustainable energy. We wish you all the best in your community-greening endeavors. 
 
Cuba launches program to protect water resources

Cuba to safeguard water and environment. As part of plans to enhance economic and social growth, Cuba is prioritizing water and environmental protection. The government will provide information on sustainable agriculture, preventing pollution, boosting land quality, and improving water networks. The media will cover topics such as saving water and being environmentally conscious. A comprehensive tree-planting effort is also part of the program. Our sincere thankfulness, Cuba, for your leadership in caring for our ecosphere. May your sustainable efforts ensure a green and bright future for the Cuban people and our planet.
 
Fiji: Pacific keen on organic farming

Organic farmers in the Pacific Islands look forward to expanding markets. As the demand for organic produce increases around the world, Oceania’s farmers are excited about meeting the demand of the global market. Fiji has already followed other island countries in establishing a national organics association. What good news to hear of this growing trend towards natural, healthy produce. Thank you and best of success, Fiji and all Pacific nations, in your endeavors to promote growing practices that are good for people and the planet.