NCBA Applauds Passage of Senate Resolution for International Year of Cooperatives
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NCBA Applauds Passage of Senate Resolution for International Year of Cooperatives
“Cooperative enterprise creates jobs and strengthens communities,” says NCBA CEO Hazen.
Washington, D.C. —July 22, 2011 — The National Cooperative Business Association applauds the unanimous passage of Senate Resolution 87, which designates 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives. The bi-partisan Resolution was introduced by Tim Johnson (D-SD) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) and 29 additional co-sponsors. It recognizes the vital role cooperatives play in the economic and social well-being of the United States; urges the establishment of a National Committee for the 2012 International Year of Cooperatives to be comprised of representatives from Federal agencies, all cooperative sectors and key stakeholders; and encourages highlighting the positive impact of cooperatives and developing new programs for domestic and international cooperative development.
NCBA President and CEO Paul Hazen said, “Cooperative enterprise knows no party. The unanimous support and significant bi-partisan sponsorship demonstrates that clearly. Co-ops operate in every state and congressional district, bringing jobs, strengthening the economy and anchoring local communities. Cooperative enterprise builds a better world here and around the world by fostering democracy and providing social and economic development opportunities. I thank all of the NCBA members who wrote to their Senators as well as the national organizations that worked with NCBA in support of the Resolution.”
The United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives in order to recognize the contribution cooperatives make to social and economic development. The theme of IYC—“Cooperative Enterprise Builds a Better World”—reflects the contribution of cooperatives to the communities they serve.
“Cooperative enterprise has a long and strong history in this country, beginning when Ben Franklin organized the Philadelphia Contributionship, a mutual insurance company still in operation today,” Hazen said. “It’s the best business model in the world because it is guided by a set of principles and values, innovates to meet member needs and puts people first. Americans have formed cooperatives to provide for themselves services that no investor-owned company would offer, such as bringing electricity and telecommunications services to rural areas. Food cooperatives were some of the first businesses to offer organic foods—because their members asked for it,” he continued.
Several organizations that serve cooperatives in the United States worked with NCBA in support of this Resolution, including American Farm Bureau Federation, Credit Union National Association,
Farm Credit Council, National Association of Federal Credit Unions, National Association of Housing Cooperatives, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives , National Cooperative Grocers Association, The National Farmers Union, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, National Telecommunications Cooperative Association, North American Students of Cooperation, South Dakota Association of Cooperatives, Parent Cooperative PreSchools International and US Federation of Worker Cooperatives. In addition, members of NCBA wrote to their Senators in support of the Resolution.
A cooperative is a member-owned and controlled business that operates for the benefit of its members. More than 29,000 cooperatives operate in every sector of the economy and in every congressional district; Americans hold over 350 million co-op memberships. US cooperatives generate 2 million jobs and make a substantial contribution to the economy with annual sales of $652 billion and possessing assets of $3 trillion.
Senate Resolution 87 had 31 co-sponsors, which are listed below (by state and party affiliation):
Democrats
1. AR-Pryor
2. CA-Boxer
3. CA-Feinstein
4. CO-Bennet
5. MI-Stabenow
6. MN-Franken
7. MN-Klobuchar
8. MO-McCaskill
9. MT-Tester
10. MT-Baucus
11. ND-Conrad
12. NE-Nelson
13. NM-Udall
14. NY-Schumer
15. OH-Brown
16. SD-Johnson
17. WA-Murray
18. WA-Cantwell
19. WI-Kohl
Republicans
1. GA-Chambliss
2. IA-Grassley
3. IN-Lugar
4. KS-Roberts
5. KS-Moran
6. MO-Blunt
7. MS-Cochran
8. MS-Wicker
9. ME-Collins
10. NE-Johanns
11. SD-Thune
12. WY-Enzi
Several co-sponsors of Senate Resolution 87 provided comments on cooperatives, which are provided below:
Saxby Chambliss (R-GA): “Cooperatives play a crucial role in communities across Georgia and throughout the United States. In some areas they are the only providers of basic essentials and should be commended for their tireless work. Designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives will serve to highlight the significant contributions cooperatives make to our economy and society.”
Thad Cochran (R-MS): “This resolution highlights the usefulness of cooperative business models in creating opportunities for groups of people, especially those living in rural areas. Cooperatives give groups that might otherwise be left at a disadvantage a chance to be more competitive in marketing goods or securing basic services,” Cochran said. “I’m proud of the accomplishments of cooperatives in Mississippi and elsewhere. I look forward to cooperatives continuing to expand and prosper in an increasingly global marketplace.”
Michael B. Enzi (R-WY): “All across Wyoming, cooperatives provide local markets for Wyoming goods and secure a better future for farmers and ranchers by giving them an opportunity to take ownership in a business that buys and sells their goods,” said Senator Mike Enzi. “Co-ops contribute to the American economy and to the lives of those they employ.”
Mike Johanns (R-NE): "Cooperatives play a unique and valuable role for our farmers, ranchers and business owners," Johanns said. "As our economy grows more complex, cooperatives help to ensure rural America remains prosperous and competitive in the 21st century."
Tim Johnson (D-SD): “At a time of great partisan gridlock, I am glad the Senate could come together to adopt the resolution I introduced to support cooperatives,” Johnson said. “As a member of the Congressional Farmer Cooperative Caucus, I have consistently supported cooperative businesses because I understand how important they are to South Dakota’s economy,” said Johnson.
Herb Kohl (D-WI): “Wisconsin is home to more than 640 cooperatives that operate in all sectors of the economy. These member owned and operated cooperatives play a critical role in building local wealth, creating jobs and improving competition in the marketplace. The University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives estimates that cooperatives are responsible for $7 billion in gross sales and employ 23,000 people in our state,” Kohl said.
Dick Lugar (R-IN): “I am pleased to support SRes. 87 and all of the cooperatives in Indiana,” said Senator Dick Lugar. “The economic impact of cooperatives throughout Indiana is important to our economy. These unique ventures offer thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in wages and revenue for our state. I appreciate all their work throughout Indiana.”
Ben Nelson (D-NE): “I am proud to be an original sponsor of Resolution 87, designating 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives because cooperatives are a major economic engine in the United States and Nebraska,” Nelson said. “Nebraska cooperatives enable our farmers to strengthen their marketing and processing opportunities enhancing their crop and livestock production. Nebraska agriculture and marketing cooperatives invested more than $78 million in 2009 alone in new facilities and equipment. They employ thousands of Nebraskans, and pay millions in both dividends and taxes, helping keep Nebraska’s economy robust and thriving.”
Mark Pryor (D-AR): “Cooperatives are a vital resource in Arkansas, bringing economic development and services to many of our rural communities,” Pryor said. “This resolution will ensure that we continue to recognize the positive contributions co-ops make to our local and global economies.”
Pat Roberts (R-KS): “Cooperatives have a long history in Kansas, starting even before former Kansas Senator Arthur Capper helped pass the Capper-Volstead Act in Congress in 1922, giving individuals producing agriculture based products certain exemptions from antitrust laws,” said Roberts. “Today cooperatives continue to play an important role in our economy and in the lives of Kansans, from farmer’s local cooperative elevators to electric cooperatives. I’m very pleased to support 2012 as the International Year of Cooperatives.”
Roger Wicker (R-MS): “Cooperatives help many of Mississippi’s rural communities immensely, and today’s resolution highlights the good work they do,” said Wicker. “The broad support this resolution received is a testament to the benefit of co-ops across the country.”
ABOUT NCBA
Headquartered in Washington, DC the National Cooperative Business Association creates cooperative connections across all sectors of the nation's more than 29,000 cooperative businesses, including agriculture, food distribution and retailing, childcare, credit unions, housing, healthcare, purchasing, worker, energy, and telecommunications cooperatives. In addition, NCBA's CLUSA International Program has helped develop cooperatives and other sustainable businesses in over 50 countries since 1953. CLUSA currently runs 23 projects in 11 countries. To learn more about NCBA, please visit www.ncba.coop.
Friday, 22 July 2011
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Angelina Jolie on the UNHCR Emergency Response Team
Emergency Response Team Delivering life-saving emergency relief for refugees, wherever and whenever disaster strikes
UNHCR is on the ground saving lives within 72 hours in a crisis. Please help us be there every time. Join the team now!
Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie's message: When disaster strikes, the UN Refugee Agency is there, on the ground, saving lives within 72 hours.
UNHCR is on the ground saving lives within 72 hours in a crisis. Please help us be there every time. Join the team now!
Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie's message: When disaster strikes, the UN Refugee Agency is there, on the ground, saving lives within 72 hours.
OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety & Security - Activities - IYC 2011
Invitation Note for the OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety and Security
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will host an OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety and Security on 12 and 13 September 2011.
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) represents the singular legal instrument comprehensively banning chemical weapons and the misuse of chemistry. The CWC thereby helps to ensure that chemistry is used only for peaceful purposes and for the benefit of humankind.
OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety & Security - Activities - IYC 2011
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will host an OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety and Security on 12 and 13 September 2011 in the context of the International Year of Chemistry. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed (resolution 63/209) the year
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) represents the singular legal instrument comprehensively banning chemical weapons and the misuse of chemistry, while ensuring that it is used only for peaceful purposes. CWC has the essential and unique role of ensuring that chemistry is exclusively used in the service of human kind. Bearing this in mind, our Conference is intended to promote the goals of the CWC by highlighting both the achievements of OPCW and the challenges that lie ahead. The Conference will seek to enhance support for the Convention’s objectives, including in the area of international cooperation with major stakeholders (United Nations, State Parties to the Convention, regional and international organisations, the chemistry industry, the IUPAC, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions and think tanks).
Given the comprehensive prohibition of the CWC on chemical weapons, OPCW envisions this conference as a forum for exploring sustainable ways and means of sharing knowledge and best practices to protect chemical plants from potential security threats.
Some of the themes we expect to cover include:
International cooperation
• Chemical management and international conventions
• National implementation: national experiences
• Innovations in chemistry and their applications for developing countries
• Emerging areas in chemistry
• International collaboration for promotion of centres of excellence in the field of chemistry
• OPCW and challenges in promoting international cooperation
Chemical safety:
• Chemical safety management
• Chemical safety in transportation of chemicals
• Green chemistry
• Responsible Care-Chemical Safety for Small Enterprises
• Safety Management in chemical industry
• Lessons in chemical safety-learning from incidents and accidents
• Chemical safety management; Emergency Planning and Response
Chemical Security
• OPCW as a global platform of support for cooperation in decreasing the chemical threat and prevention and preparedness against misuse of toxic chemicals
• Lessons learned from the national and international agencies
• Training
• Promoting awareness of chemical security and safety
• Fostering cooperation between chemical professionals
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will host an OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety and Security on 12 and 13 September 2011.
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) represents the singular legal instrument comprehensively banning chemical weapons and the misuse of chemistry. The CWC thereby helps to ensure that chemistry is used only for peaceful purposes and for the benefit of humankind.
OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety & Security - Activities - IYC 2011
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will host an OPCW Conference on International Cooperation and Chemical Safety and Security on 12 and 13 September 2011 in the context of the International Year of Chemistry. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed (resolution 63/209) the year
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) represents the singular legal instrument comprehensively banning chemical weapons and the misuse of chemistry, while ensuring that it is used only for peaceful purposes. CWC has the essential and unique role of ensuring that chemistry is exclusively used in the service of human kind. Bearing this in mind, our Conference is intended to promote the goals of the CWC by highlighting both the achievements of OPCW and the challenges that lie ahead. The Conference will seek to enhance support for the Convention’s objectives, including in the area of international cooperation with major stakeholders (United Nations, State Parties to the Convention, regional and international organisations, the chemistry industry, the IUPAC, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions and think tanks).
Given the comprehensive prohibition of the CWC on chemical weapons, OPCW envisions this conference as a forum for exploring sustainable ways and means of sharing knowledge and best practices to protect chemical plants from potential security threats.
Some of the themes we expect to cover include:
International cooperation
• Chemical management and international conventions
• National implementation: national experiences
• Innovations in chemistry and their applications for developing countries
• Emerging areas in chemistry
• International collaboration for promotion of centres of excellence in the field of chemistry
• OPCW and challenges in promoting international cooperation
Chemical safety:
• Chemical safety management
• Chemical safety in transportation of chemicals
• Green chemistry
• Responsible Care-Chemical Safety for Small Enterprises
• Safety Management in chemical industry
• Lessons in chemical safety-learning from incidents and accidents
• Chemical safety management; Emergency Planning and Response
Chemical Security
• OPCW as a global platform of support for cooperation in decreasing the chemical threat and prevention and preparedness against misuse of toxic chemicals
• Lessons learned from the national and international agencies
• Training
• Promoting awareness of chemical security and safety
• Fostering cooperation between chemical professionals
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
UC Irvine Feature: UCI center tracks rainfall
“What we provide, essentially, is the fuel for hydrologic models that can predict things like the extent and timing of flooding downstream,” says Soroosh Sorooshian, director of UCI’s Center for Hydrometeorology & Remote Sensing.
UC Irvine Feature: UCI center tracks rainfall
UC Irvine Feature: UCI center tracks rainfall
What Do Medical Students Know. . .
...about the Geneva Conventions, Medical Ethics, and Torture? Not as much as they should, according to a disturbing new study published in the International Journal of Health Services. The Refuge Media Project recently taped an interview with lead author J. Wesley Boyd, MD, PhD.
Campaign to Ban Torture: Douglas A. Johnson
Douglas A. Johnson explains the "Campaign to Ban Torture: American Voices for American Values." Johnson is the Director of the Center for Victims of Torture, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Center is spearheading an unprecedented national coalition calling on the President to issue an Executive Order unequivocally rejecting torture and cruelty. Nationally respected faith, military, and foreign policy leaders have united behind core principles reflecting deeply cherished American values. Coalition members are the Center for Victims of Torture, the National Religious Campaign to Ban Torture, and Evangelicals for Human Rights.
The President’s Meeting with His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama | The White House
Yesterday morning President Obama met with His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama in the Map Room of the White House. Here's the statement from the Press Secretary on their meeting:
The President reiterated his strong support for the preservation of the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic traditions of Tibet and the Tibetan people throughout the world. He underscored the importance of the protection of human rights of Tibetans in China. The President commended the Dalai Lama’s commitment to nonviolence and dialogue with China and his pursuit of the “Middle Way” approach. Reiterating the U.S. policy that Tibet is a part of the People’s Republic of China and the United States does not support independence for Tibet, the President stressed that he encourages direct dialogue to resolve long-standing differences and that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans. The President stressed the importance he attaches to building a U.S.-China cooperative partnership. The Dalai Lama stated that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government can soon resume.
See more about Foreign Policy
The President’s Meeting with His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama | The White House
The President reiterated his strong support for the preservation of the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic traditions of Tibet and the Tibetan people throughout the world. He underscored the importance of the protection of human rights of Tibetans in China. The President commended the Dalai Lama’s commitment to nonviolence and dialogue with China and his pursuit of the “Middle Way” approach. Reiterating the U.S. policy that Tibet is a part of the People’s Republic of China and the United States does not support independence for Tibet, the President stressed that he encourages direct dialogue to resolve long-standing differences and that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans. The President stressed the importance he attaches to building a U.S.-China cooperative partnership. The Dalai Lama stated that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government can soon resume.
See more about Foreign Policy
The President’s Meeting with His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama | The White House
President and Mrs. Obama Celebrate Nelson Mandela Day
Posted by DipNote Bloggers / July 18, 2011
President and Mrs. Obama released a statement in honor of Nelson Mandela International Day on July 17. In the statement, President and Mrs. Obama said:
"As the people of the world celebrate Nelson Mandela's 93rd birthday on July 18, Madiba continues to be a beacon for the global community, and for all who work for democracy, justice and reconciliation. On behalf of the people of the United States, we congratulate Nelson Mandela, and honor his vision for a better world.
"Nelson Mandela said, 'There is no passion to be found playing small -- in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.' A man who devoted 67 years of his life to public service, Madiba sets the standard for service worldwide, whether we are students, shopkeepers or farmers, cabinet ministers or presidents. He calls on us to serve our fellow human beings, and better our communities.
"Michelle, and my daughters, Sasha and Malia, recently met Madiba during an official visit to South Africa that focused on service, youth leadership, education and healthy living. Their time with Madiba was the most moving part of their trip. Mandela's legacy exemplifies wisdom, strength and grace, and on the anniversary of his birth we salute the example of his life.
"In 2009, the United States was honored to join 192 other United Nations member states in the creation of Nelson Mandela International Day. As the global community honors Madiba on July 18 through individual and collective acts of service, we honor the man who showed his own people, and the world, the path to justice, reconciliation and democracy."
You can find a complete transcript of the statement here.
President and Mrs. Obama released a statement in honor of Nelson Mandela International Day on July 17. In the statement, President and Mrs. Obama said:
"As the people of the world celebrate Nelson Mandela's 93rd birthday on July 18, Madiba continues to be a beacon for the global community, and for all who work for democracy, justice and reconciliation. On behalf of the people of the United States, we congratulate Nelson Mandela, and honor his vision for a better world.
"Nelson Mandela said, 'There is no passion to be found playing small -- in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.' A man who devoted 67 years of his life to public service, Madiba sets the standard for service worldwide, whether we are students, shopkeepers or farmers, cabinet ministers or presidents. He calls on us to serve our fellow human beings, and better our communities.
"Michelle, and my daughters, Sasha and Malia, recently met Madiba during an official visit to South Africa that focused on service, youth leadership, education and healthy living. Their time with Madiba was the most moving part of their trip. Mandela's legacy exemplifies wisdom, strength and grace, and on the anniversary of his birth we salute the example of his life.
"In 2009, the United States was honored to join 192 other United Nations member states in the creation of Nelson Mandela International Day. As the global community honors Madiba on July 18 through individual and collective acts of service, we honor the man who showed his own people, and the world, the path to justice, reconciliation and democracy."
You can find a complete transcript of the statement here.
UN marks Nelson Mandela International Day with public service activities
Volunteers work at New York’s Central Park to mark the second annual Nelson Mandela International Day
18 July 2011 –The United Nations today marked the second annual Nelson Mandela International Day with a series of events dedicated to public service, as well as speeches, exhibitions and film screenings in recognition of the former South African president’s contributions as a human rights defender, freedom fighter and peacemaker.
UN marks Nelson Mandela International Day with public service activities
18 July 2011 –The United Nations today marked the second annual Nelson Mandela International Day with a series of events dedicated to public service, as well as speeches, exhibitions and film screenings in recognition of the former South African president’s contributions as a human rights defender, freedom fighter and peacemaker.
UN marks Nelson Mandela International Day with public service activities
Monday, 18 July 2011
Israeli device cuts risk during heart surgery - July 2011
A promising cardiac procedure carries the risk of stroke, but an Israeli invention has it covered.
Israeli device cuts risk during heart surgery - July 2011
Israeli device cuts risk during heart surgery - July 2011
International Criminal Court: "The ICC at a glance"
The International Criminal Court is the world's first permanent international criminal court, which is established and governed by the Rome Statute, a treaty ratified by 114 countries. It is located in The Hague, the Netherlands.
The adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998 was a historic step, reflecting the determination of the world community to put an end to impunity and to contribute to the prevention of crimes which threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world.
The ICC has jurisdiction over the most serious crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed after 1 July 2002.
This video was produced in 2011 by the Public Information and Documentation Section of the ICC, for non-profit and educational purposes. The ICC encourages its use, reproduction and distribution for the same purposes. Sale or commercial use is strictly prohibited.
More information: www.icc-cpi.int
The adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998 was a historic step, reflecting the determination of the world community to put an end to impunity and to contribute to the prevention of crimes which threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world.
The ICC has jurisdiction over the most serious crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed after 1 July 2002.
This video was produced in 2011 by the Public Information and Documentation Section of the ICC, for non-profit and educational purposes. The ICC encourages its use, reproduction and distribution for the same purposes. Sale or commercial use is strictly prohibited.
More information: www.icc-cpi.int
Colorful-Balloons: World Day For International Justice
Colorful-Balloons: World Day For International Justice: "Today is World Day For International Justice ."
UNPO: July 17th: World Day For International Justice
UNPO: July 17th: World Day For International Justice
Governments, civil society organizations, legal associations, students and activists around the globe will celebrate World Day for International Justice on July 17th
Governments, civil society organizations, legal associations, students and activists around the globe will celebrate World Day for International Justice on July 17th
Make a Pledge - The Pledge - One Ocean: The Nature of Things with David Suzuki: CBC-TV
Think resourcefully, reduce consumption and waste, get involved and protect the ocean.
Enter the ocean and experience it in a very personal way. Explore the past, present and future of the world's oceans and our race against the clock to save them.
Make a Pledge - The Pledge - One Ocean: The Nature of Things with David Suzuki: CBC-TV
Enter the ocean and experience it in a very personal way. Explore the past, present and future of the world's oceans and our race against the clock to save them.
Make a Pledge - The Pledge - One Ocean: The Nature of Things with David Suzuki: CBC-TV
- Ask about the sustainability of fish at retailers and restaurants. Ask a local fish retailer and restaurant owner about the sustainability of the products they sell.
- Buy fish directly from fishers on the dock. Learn about locally caught fish to contribute to sustainability.
- Buy locally and purchase organic. Buy locally to eliminate the need for transport, and choose organic products to reduce the use of fertilizer and pesticides.
- Celebrate World Oceans Day and Rivers to Ocean Week. Help celebrate World Oceans Day, June 8 and Rivers to Ocean Week, June 8 - 14.
- Challenge local politicians to take action on sewage treatment. Write to local politicians in areas where sewage is not being treated, and stress the importance of responsible treatment procedures.
- Check the source of omega-3 products. Check the source of omega-3 products to limit menhaden harvesting.
- Choose vacation spots that support coral protection. Find out about the conservation policies of resorts you may visit.
- Collect garbage from beaches, lake shores or riverbanks. Clean up surrounding neighbourhoods, and set an example for others so local areas will be kept in good condition.
- Count and identify seabirds along the shore. Understand the connection between sea birds and other marine life.
- Demand more marine protected areas. Educate yourself, and then write the federal government and demand more marine protected areas.
- Dispose of garbage properly, on land or water. Carry a washable bag and collect garbage while you're out and about.
- Dispose of household hazardous wastes properly. Dispose of household hazardous wastes at proper waste disposal sites rather than dumping them down the drain or in the garbage.
- Dive responsibly. Be sure to book tours with accredited operators in order to protect coral.
- Eat more sustainable seafood. Eat more sustainable seafood species like sardines and mackerel.
- Eat organically grown food. Eat organically grown food and avoid the chemicals and industrial fertilizers that end up in the ocean.
- Explore a tide pool. Learn more about the diverse species that live in tide pools.
- Garden with mesh screens. Using mesh screens to garden helps control weeds and keeps rainwater in the water table.
- Go to the beach as often as possible. Learn how to appreciate the ocean by visiting often and developing a connection.
- Help restore a wetland, bog or riverside. Get involved with community groups working toward restoring wetlands, bogs, and riverside areas.
- Host a sustainable seafood dinner. Show your friends that eating sustainably can be helpful, fun and delicious.
- Learn about the seafood people eat. Learn more about the seafood people commonly eat and how it is caught.
- Learn about the source of meat products. Purchasing meat products responsibly can help to keep certain harmful wastes out of the ocean.
- Learn how to dive or snorkel. Go diving or snorkelling to gain first-hand knowledge of the ocean and its creatures.
- Learn how to identify local ocean species. Gain more knowledge about the diverse species living in the ocean.
- Learn how we are all connected to the world's ocean. Learn how we, as society, are connected to the world's ocean, even if we don't live near it.
- Learn more about northern marine ecosystems. Find out more about northern marine ecosystems, which support wildlife species found only in the Arctic.
- Listen to elders' stories about ocean change. Listen to the stories of elders about the changes they have seen in the ocean.
- Look for books, music, and movies about the ocean. Learn more about the ocean so you can help protect it.
- Make a list of things the global ocean does for our planet. Find out how we're connected to the ocean and get motivated to help protect it.
- No longer de-ice walkways with salt. Keep harmful chemicals from getting to the ocean by avoiding using them in your every day life.
- Only buy vintage or fake coral jewellery. Don't purchase any coral items that were harvested unsustainably.
- Organize or support an environmental fair. Organize or support an environmental fair with ocean-themed games and activities.
- Plant as many trees as possible. Plant new trees to help absorb carbon dioxide, prevent erosion, and store rainwater to keep pollutants out of the ocean.
- Post "No Dumping" & "No Littering" signs. Post "No Dumping" signs beside wetlands and rivers and "No Littering" signs on community property such as schoolyards.
- Practice and promote recycling. Choose reusable products wherever possible, and recycle plastic materials.
- Reduce personal carbon emissions. Develop a plan to reduce personal carbon emissions by 80 per cent.
- Reduce pesticide use and ocean-bound contaminants. Support or initiate programs to reduce pesticide use and ocean-bound contaminants, especially along waterways.
- Reduce plastic consumption. Reduce plastic consumption by choosing items with reusable or recyclable packaging.
- Research environmentally-friendly alternatives to wasteful or hazardous products. Consult a local library or the Internet for information about environmentally- friendly alternatives to wasteful or hazardous products.
- Research seaweed as a source of food and refuge for ocean species. Research the importance of seaweed as a source of food and refuge for many ocean species and learn how over-harvesting can affect marine life.
- Research the fish that used to be in the ocean closest to home. Find out more about the number, species and size of fish that used to be in the ocean closest to your home.
- Set-up a community acidification experiment. Set-up an acidification experiment with your circle of friends to show people how chalk disintegrates in vinegar, just like coral reefs will in an acidic ocean.
- Share info about the affects of CO2 emissions. Read more about the affects of CO2 emissions on the ocean and share that information with others.
- Study an ocean ecosystem. Study an ocean ecosystem, such as a kelp forest, coral reef, rocky shore or sandy beach.
- Support conservation organizations. Support conservation organizations involved with protection of the oceans.
- Teach a child how to responsibly catch and eat fish. Teach a child how to catch and eat fish while obeying local fishing regulations.
- Tell politicians to stop ocean acidification. Tell politicians to stop ocean acidification by cutting CO2 emissions drastically and then start a petition to get others involved.
- Use non-toxic cleaning products. Choose to purchase environmentally safe products for use in your household.
- Visit an aquarium whenever possible. Learn new things about all of the different marine animals you can meet at an aquarium.
- Watch an ocean documentary. Go to a theatre, watch online, or rent a movie about the ocean. You'll find out more about the many issues facing it.
Sunday, 17 July 2011
SPECIAL COVERAGE: The world's most dangerous countries for women - TrustLaw
SPECIAL COVERAGE: The world's most dangerous countries for women - TrustLaw
Women In International Security (WIIS) is the only global network actively advancing women’s leadership, at all stages of their careers, in the international peace and security field.
Women In International Security (WIIS) is the only global network actively advancing women’s leadership, at all stages of their careers, in the international peace and security field.
- FACTSHEET-The world's most dangerous countries for women
- Punitive laws hamper women's fight against HIV/AIDS
- Top 10 myths about women by aid group CARE
- NYC high maternal deaths defy usual explanations
- Reproductive Rights: Why women still die in childbirth
FACTSHEET-The world's most dangerous countries for women - TrustLaw
FACTSHEET-The world's most dangerous countries for women - TrustLaw
Key facts on five countries highlighted by a TrustLaw poll of experts
Key facts on five countries highlighted by a TrustLaw poll of experts
MAIN STORIES AND ANALYSIS
- INFOGRAPHIC: The five countries at a glance
- Q+A: Women's rights in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban
IN FOCUS
MULTIMEDIA
- AUDIO SLIDESHOW: Where women and girls are most at risk
- AUDIO SLIDESHOW: Somalia: Where birth can mean death
BACKGROUND
HAVE YOUR SAY
METHODOLOGY AND FULL RESULTS
Friday, 15 July 2011
Marking Nelson Mandela Day, UN urges action by all to make world a bette...
To honour Mandela, UN asks everyone to devote 67 minutes to public service
Nelson Mandela in February 2005
“Together, the best way we can thank Nelson Mandela for his work is by taking action for others and inspiring change,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a message for the Day.
In November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared 18 July – Mr. Mandela’s birthday – “Nelson Mandela International Day” in recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.
In a separate video message, Mr. Ban calls on people everywhere to embrace Mr. Mandela’s message to change the world and make it a better place. “Tutor a child. Feed someone less fortunate. Care for your environment. Volunteer at a hospital or community centre. Be a part of a global movement to make the world a better place.
“Together, we can help people achieve the dignity and liberty that are their birthright. That is the best way we can honour Nelson Mandela,” he stated.
On Monday, which is Mr. Mandela’s 93rd birthday, senior officials, diplomats and staff from the UN will gather in New York’s Central Park to perform public service to mark the Day.
Also in New York, an interactive exhibit called “Take Action! Inspire Change” will be displayed at UN Headquarters at which visitors can learn about Mr. Mandela through a range of video and audio materials, as well as make their pledge to “67 minutes of service” in a message that will be sent to Mr. Mandela himself.
Other UN offices around the world will also mark the Day by undertaking activities in their local communities.
Nelson Mandela International Day- July 18, 2011
The idea behind the celebration of the Mandela Day is a call to action for individuals – for people everywhere – to take responsibility for changing the world into a better place, one small step at a time, just as Mr Mandela did within his 67 years of public service. Mandela history is also a great example for all politicians around the world. Demonstrations in the middle east and the financial crisis proof that people interests are still unheard and that statesmen must be recalled to their main responsibilities to work for the benefit of the collectivity and for the public interest.Nelson Mandela International Day- July 18, 2011 The call is part of the “Take Action! Inspire Change” campaign by the Mandela Foundation in recognition of the contributions made by Mr. Mandela, as a human rights lawyer, freedom fighter, prisoner of conscience, international peacemaker, and the first democratically-elected president of a free South Africa.
Africa ripe for carbon offset deals, UN tells forum
6 July 2011 – Africa presents a good opportunity for carbon offset projects, United Nations experts told a continent-wide meeting in Marrakech, Morocco, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) said.
“The opportunities in Africa are increasing. I am convinced that the growing interest in Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects will help turn the tide and contribute to firmly positioning Africa’s opportunities for the carbon market landscape beyond 2012,” Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) told 1,100 participants at the Africa Carbon Forum, which brought together project developers, buyers, service providers and national CDM representatives.
Africa ripe for carbon offset deals, UN tells forum
“The opportunities in Africa are increasing. I am convinced that the growing interest in Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects will help turn the tide and contribute to firmly positioning Africa’s opportunities for the carbon market landscape beyond 2012,” Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) told 1,100 participants at the Africa Carbon Forum, which brought together project developers, buyers, service providers and national CDM representatives.
Africa ripe for carbon offset deals, UN tells forum
Thursday, 14 July 2011
Année internationale de la chimie 2011 (IYC 2011)
IYC 2011
Année internationale de la chimie 2011
International Year of Chemistry 2011
http://www.chemistry2011.org/
http://www.essenscia.be/iyc2011/
http://www.heldb.be/he/meurice/iyc-2011
Année internationale de la chimie 2011
International Year of Chemistry 2011
http://www.chemistry2011.org/
http://www.essenscia.be/iyc2011/
http://www.heldb.be/he/meurice/iyc-2011
2011 International Year of Forests - " Forests are more than providing us fresh air "
 " Celebrating Forests For Poeple" |
To bolster efforts that will promote sustainable management, conservation and development of forests worldwide, the General Assembly adopted
2011 international Tear of Forests
Resolution 61/193. International Year of Forests, 2011
The Year 2011 has been declared the International Year of Forests by the United Nations to raise awareness and strengthen the sustainable forest management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests for the benefit of current and future generations.
Slide Shows
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International Year of Forests Logo
International Year of Forests Launch Ceremony
IYF message by H.E. Ms. Sirkka-Liisa Anttila, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Finland
IYF message by H.E. Mr. Henry Ford Kamel, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Ghana
IYF message by H.E. Mr. Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Malaysia
IYF message by H.E. Mr. Janusz Zaleski, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Environment, Poland
IYF message by Mr. Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
IYF message by Mr. Eduardo Rojas-Briales, Assistant Director-General, FD, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
IYF message by Mr. Emmanuel Ze Meka, Executive Director, International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO)
IYF message by Ms. Julia Marton-Lefèvre, Director General, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
IYF message by Mr. Ibrahim Thiaw, Director, DEPI, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
IYF message by Mr. Dennis Garrity, Director General, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)
Video Message from Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon
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 "Forests" - A Film by Yann Arthus-Bertrand (7:34)* |
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