Amongst the event’s various hip hop performances, eco-friendly dance floor and dinner aboard a hybrid ferry, young environmental leaders from the United States and Canada showcased their environmental work on a regional and international platform, while also connecting them to UNEP and the global Tunza Network.

The event itself was organized by UNEP’s Regional Office for North America (UNEP RONA) and was hosted at the University of California at Berkeley.

Started in 2003, Tunza (meaning “to treat with care” in Swahili) is made up of networks of young environmentalists from across the world and is part of UNEP’s long-term strategy for engaging young people in environmental activities.

The project is designed to foster a generation of environmentally-conscious citizens and help channel their enthusiasm into positive action – even at the very highest level.

CODE Green

One of the weekend’s events included a presentation by Bonnie Nixon, founder of the CODE Green Agency, on how young people can work with governments and corporations on green issues.

“Engaging young people is crucial to tackling some of today’s most pressing environmental issues, not only in our region but around the world. This conference represents a major step in solidifying UNEP RONA’s youth outreach work,” said Amy Fraenkel, Director of UNEP RONA.

The conference was facilitated by Darian Rodriguez Heyman, current chair of the UN’s Green Tech Summit. Representing UNEP RONA was Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox, the person responsible for bringing the Tunzana Network to fruition.

In addition to developing a strategy for the Network’s activities in the coming two years, some of the conference’s main highlights included:

• A presentation by 350.org co-founder May Boeve on ‘Using Social Networks to Organize Grassroots Campaigns’
• A campus tour around UC Berkeley that showcased sustainable initiatives, as well as some of the school’s major student-run environmental groups
• A two-hour trip aboard the Hornblower Hybrid ferry, the United States’ first hybrid ferry, which uses energy from solar, wind, grid electric, and Tier 2 diesel generators to power the vessel

“It’s important to participate in conferences like this because when you engage in a group you feel like part of a family, a network of others who have the same passion and vision for a better world,” said Marisol Becerra, one of Tunzana’s youth network advisors.

The University of California at Berkeley served not only as a picturesque venue, but also as an example of an institution that employs progressive environmental and conservation initiatives.

After the weekend’s inspiring talks, trips and tours, as well as some invaluable networking, it’s hoped that Tunzana’s young members will return hope, ready to take action on the environment in their schools and communities.

For more information, visit www.unep.org/Tunza.

Available via www.letsgochipper.com, or download on iTunes, iTouch or iPhone the eco-educational APP includes animated and live action videos, e-books, games and music for young children.

The series takes Chipper, an overly curious squirrel, on adventures in nature to meet animals and learn about their habitats and the importance of keeping the environment healthy so everyone can thrive. The stories excite, engage, and playfully teach young children good character and a love for the environment.

Teaching value through fun and learning

In the premiere video “Into the Great Outdoors” music, mishap and humor guide the adventure taking Chipper on a camping trip to explore the wonders of the park.

With park rules delivered by Ranger Frank, Chipper’s curiosity gets the best of him as he dashes from the campsite to make friends with birds, Red and Robin. Chipper quickly discovers he’s broken the first rule, “Always be with a partner” but with the guidance of the birds and many other park helpers, Chipper connects with nature and learns valuable lessons that will help empower young children to make conscientious choices when camping, hiking, or just exploring in the backyard with family and friends.

“Many parents avoid camping or simple trips to the park because of the fear of their child getting lost or even getting dirty but Chipper empowers children and provides a positive parenting tool to help reinforce lessons and good choices,” says creator Stephanie Rach-Wilson. “Our goal is to help confirm the intuitive mindset in children through play-based learning and nature-inspired stories.”

Research shows that more often than TV is parental fear keeping children from exploring just beyond the back door. The benefits of exploring nature are included in many medical journals and noted author, Richard Louv discusses the phenomenon of Nature Deficit Disorder in his book Last Child in the Woods.

Making real-life connections

Connecting with nature can help reduce stress, and children with ADHD have shown a reduced need for medication through experiencing nature. Additionally, physical activity and “free play” helps children stay fit while encouraging imagination.

The opportunity to connect children to nature and foster future environmental stewards is the goal behind the series. The Company partners with park systems, environmental organizations and schools to reinforce the learning within each story. Chipper recently led Earth Stroll and presented Crissy Field, part of the Golden Gate National Park system, with a customized story. Let’s Stroll Crissy Field teaches children about urban habitats, the benefits of taking public transportation, and the history of one of the nation’s most visited urban parks.

Keeping things fresh

The Let’s Go Chipper app releases a new book every two weeks. Stories range from:

• Out to Sea with Sally taking Chipper on adventure from fresh water to salt water and back again to learn about the life of a salmon and the importance of keeping waterways clean.
• Into the Great Outdoors introducing children to adventures beyond the backyard where they can meet rabbits, bears, deer, birds, and learn about ecosystemsars.
• Break it Down with Bruce Chipper and his sidekick, Paisley, play hide and seek and wind up on silly, slimy adventure with one of nature’s best composter – the banana slug.

Additionally, Chipper learns about safe air travel in Get Ready to Fly. From what to pack to check-in, boarding, flying and landing children are better prepared to fly and more respectful of on-board behavior with Chipper’s simple lessons via an easy-to-download app.

The Let’s Go Chipper!™ app provides entertainment while educating and encouraging children about the great outdoors. Created and produced by Bay Area based IAGmedia, a conscientious family-lifestyle media company, the series is also available as physical books, DVDs and products via the Let’s Go Chipper website.

The Company environmentally packages its products and manufactures almost entirely in the USA using FSC certified papers and soy based inks. Additionally, a portion of proceeds directly support educational and scholarship programs that connect children with nature-based experiences.

To learn more, visit www.letsgochipper.com.

Its goal: to inspire and enable people of all ages to become regularly active outside, and to develop the benefits gained through a connection to nature. The site has partnered with more than 100 non-profit organizations across the country, offering many opportunities to discover a diverse array of outdoor activities.

To kick off the launch in New York, PlanetExplore and New York Restoration Project will be hosting NYRP’s Winter Warm-Up – a free event offering winter activities that encourage local exploration and expose youth to nature experiences – on Saturday, February 13th. Supported by the NYC Green Stops, Winter Warm-Up will expose local children to hands-on activities in the non-profit’s Swindler Cove Park and the adjacent Highbridge Park.

“Kids and adults, especially folks from urban communities, NEED to get outside — time in nature makes them more healthy, fit, and even more happy,” said Akiima Price, Chief of Education and Programs at NYRP. “I’m so proud we’re partnering with The North Face and PlanetExplore to get people outdoors. And, by introducing New Yorkers to all the great organizations at the Winter Warm-up and on PlanetExplore, they’ll be getting out even more in the months to come.”

The New York launch of PlanetExplore comes on the heels of The Outdoor Foundation’s recently released Special Report on Youth, which found that outdoor participation among youth continues to decrease each year, with the rate of decline steepest among the youngest age groups.

History of outdoor inspiration

After launching in the San Francisco Bay Area (home of The North Face), PlanetExplore expanded into the Midwest with a Denver release, and is now available nationwide with the New York introduction.

Since The Outdoor Foundation began tracking youth participation in 2006, the rate of participation among girls 6-to-12 fell from 77 to 58 percent, while that of boys 6-to-12 fell from 79 to 69 percent, reflective of the inactivity and obesity crisis facing American youth today. The biggest barriers for non-participants were lack of interest, including screen time (TV, video games, and computers) at 39 percent, and lack of parental support, 17 percent.

“Thanks to the steadfast leadership and generous support of The North Face, young leaders from across the country will be empowered to reclaim, redefine and rediscover the outdoors,” said Chris Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation.

Other organizations supporting the Winter Warm Up include the National Parks Conservation Association of New York City, Greenbelt Nature Center, New York State Outdoor Education Association, and the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, among others.

Later this year, PlanetExplore, Backpacker Magazine and Outdoor Foundation will be hosting the first annual Outdoor Nation event in New York City, the largest effort to bring youth together to discuss the challenges and opportunities around increasing youth outdoor participation.

For more information, visit www.planetexplore.com.

The WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization.

“Doubletree’s Community Drive to Fight World Hunger is educating students on the hunger needs of their neighbors and then extending that awareness to other regions of the world,” said Mary Beth Parks, vice president-brand marketing for Doubletree Hotels.

As an integral part of Doubletree’s award-winning “Teaching Kids to CARE” community outreach program, “Community Drive to Fight World Hunger” hopes to raise awareness on key social and environmental issues through educational activities.

Food drive collection activities will take place at participating Doubletree hotels in more than 125 cities worldwide between now and December 18th.

“Our hope is that participants will gain a sense of the scope of the hunger crisis and their role in addressing it through hands-on donation and fundraising efforts,” added Parks. “Students will also learn ways to impact this worldwide challenge by making enlightened changes in their own lives, like cutting down on food waste during meals or donating regularly to a local food bank.”

‘Teaching Kids to CARE’ this holiday season

The Teaching Kids to Care campaign works to educate students on the impact hunger has on both a local and global level by highlighting the critical importance of food donations during the holiday season.

Founded in 2002, “Teaching Kids to CARE is a community-based outreach initiative that has connected local Doubletree hotels with more than 150,000 students in local elementary schools and youth organizations. Teaching Kids to CARE educates children about the importance of making environmentally and socially conscious decisions for their community and their world at the earliest ages.

As part of the campaign, students across the country are filling self-decorated food collection containers and organizing “Great Community Food Collection” drives, encouraging family, friends and fellow citizens to feed their hungry neighbors through non-perishable food donations.

All collected non-perishable food items will be presented to a variety of nonprofit community outreach organizations including local food banks, rescue missions, mobile meal delivery programs and more—directly connecting students to the hunger needs present in their own communities.

Doubletree commits to hunger relief

Taking part in the giving-spirit of the season, Doubletree Hotels has committed to contributing $0.05 for every non-perishable food item donated to Friends of the World Food Program (Friends of WFP), a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that builds support for WFP operations. Funds will be donated exclusively to WFP’s school meals program, which provides meals to more than 20 million of the world’s poorest schoolchildren each year.

Research from the WFP has found that supplying meals to students at school significantly increases enrollment, attendance and academic performance—especially for girls. This reinforces Doubletree’s mission of supporting and enhancing educational efforts for youth worldwide and engaging Teachings Kids to CARE participants in actively supporting academic aspirations through the power of community outreach.

“WFP seeks partnerships that, in addition to monetary donations, are committed to creating lasting change and addressing the core of the hunger epidemic worldwide,” said Friends of WFP President and CEO, Karen Sendelback. “Doubletree’s youth-focused program ensures that future generations of leaders are aware of this issue and are able to take proactive steps to help eradicate world hunger.”

For more information or to find out how you can contribute, follow the campaign via Twitter at www.twitter.com/doubletreehtls.

Built on a solid foundation of passion and pride, African Impact has taken the lead as the industry’s most renowned Africa-based volunteer travel projects. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, African Impact works in partnership with extensive office and field staff in Southern and East Africa, as well as volunteers from around the world.

Now in their eighth year, the Imvelo Awards have had a huge impact on tourism in South Africa, creating significant awareness of environmental management issues in the industry. The awards are in line with the Responsible Tourism guidelines for the South African hospitality industry and the UN World Tourism Organization’s code of ethics. Imvelo is supported by the Heritage Environmental Rating Program.

This year’s award ceremony takes place in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 11th November 2009.

A worthy journey

Since its humble beginnings in late 2004 at their Antelope Park Lion Rehabilitation Project in Zimbabwe, African Impact’s first volunteers were welcomed with open arms. Since then, Andrew and Wendy Conolly, along with a dedicated team of managers, office and field staff, have built African Impact into a voluntourism organization of which they are immensely proud.

“Having traveled to our volunteer projects throughout Southern and East Africa, I’ve seen a lot of fascinating things and met a lot of intriguing people!” said Sarah Graham, a co-founder of African Impact.

“From camping with Masai warriors and camels in the bush of Northern Kenya while scouting a new project; to tracking leopards with experienced scouts in Southern Botswana; taking a ‘chicken bus’ up to the lip of the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, or having the time of my life reading to kids at our adopted orphanage in Mozambique, I have never failed to be continuously inspired, and re-inspired, by the people that I have met.

“Whether they were our very own African Impact project managers or participants or local partners such as headmasters in small rural schools or over-eager children with an amazing desire to learn, I am continuously awed by the beauty of the kind of humanity that can eclipse all boundaries and bring people together when working for a common cause.”

Creating real results

African Impact employs a “results-based assessment approach” to volunteer travel. The organization prefers to seek out the evidence and outputs that stand to support the work that they are doing as further proof that they are making a sustainable difference in Africa.

The African Impact team is made up of people with vast experience living, working and traveling in Africa. They raise up and invest in local staff wherever possible, and their colorful group is made up of people who have an unparalleled passion and enthusiasm for their work.

“The whole experience was absolutely incredible,” said Stuart Neath, a past volunteer to African Impact Volunteer Project in Mozambique. It was uplifting, rewarding, challenging, grounding, heart-breaking and soul-destroying in equal measure. To see the absolute joy on the faces of the children when we arrived to spend time with them, or their excitement at being given the opportunity to do something creative, was incredible. This is why I WILL do it again and why I would encourage anyone who is thinking about doing this to go and do it.”

“As a department, we truly appreciate your dedication and hope you recognise, as we do, the valuable role you play in building brighter futures for Zambia’s next generation,” reads a statement from the Zambian Ministry of Sport, Youth and Child Development. “Thank you for your continuing support. It is through the positive efforts of organisations like yours that we can change a lifetime for a child in need…”

African Impact is the largest on-the-ground facilitator of responsible volunteer projects in Southern and East Africa. In 2009 they were nominated as finalists in the World Travel Awards, as well as the prestigious Imvelo Awards, and are continuously striving to improve the nature of the work that they are doing in Africa.

“Without sounding trite, living in Africa and volunteering in this way has profoundly influenced my perspectives and outlook on life,” commented Victoria Blackwell-Hardie, another past volunteer to Kenya Medical and Community Project. “I re-evaluated my personal relationships, the way I interact with people, the things I value, my approach to material possessions, and my overall career goals. To say I loved living there would be an understatement.”

For more information on African Impact, visit www.africanimpact.com as well as www.africanimpact.com.

As a parent, I tend to stay up-to-speed on the latest warnings and hazards that may be involved in the common household products I buy and use, whether they be for cleaning, playing, or any other method within the daily routine. Recently, though, it seems that more and more “breaking news” continues to expose further dangers of toxic chemicals – in places you would sometimes never even think to look.

Scientific studies are emerging on an almost daily basis that continually link toxic chemical exposure to serious health problems, especially in young ones.

From bisphenol-A in baby bottles to phthalates in childrens’ toys and flame retardants in nursery furnishings, the modern world is filled with synthetic compounds that research now shows likely cause neurological and behavioral disorders, reproductive and developmental disruption, cancer and other troubles.

Modern families are exposed to literally hundreds of untested chemicals in the products they use every day. Since the TSCA’s passing in 1976, the EPA has investigated only 200 of the more than 80,000 chemical compounds available to manufacturers today.

Even still, TSCA critics say that it doesn’t give the EPA enough authority to demand that companies supply the information needed to evaluate a chemical’s risk.

New bill aims to protect kids from untested chemicals

A new and aggressive coalition of nearly 30 leading non-governmental organizations, called Safer Chemicals Healthy Families, is working to help Congress overhaul the nation’s chemical regulations.

The group supports new legislation proposed by several Congress-people, including Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), including the stringent requirement that new chemicals be safety-tested before they are put into products that children and others use.

Manufacturers would also have to prove that chemicals already in production are free of danger. This information would be publicly available so that consumers could see exactly what they’re bringing home.

Here’s what the bill can do:

• Take quick action on the most dangerous chemicals.
• Require full information on the health and environmental hazards associated with all chemicals.
• Protect all people and vulnerable groups – including children and pregnant women – using the best science.

Coalition supporters include the Environmental Defense Fund, Healthy Child Healthy World and Seventh Generation, the maker of all-natural cleaning products and diapers.

What you can do

Follow a diverse nationwide coalition comprised of environmental groups, health professionals and others working to pass smart federal policies that protect us from toxic chemicals.

Learn more about Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families and email Congress to let them know you think it’s time to update the law governing toxic chemicals For more information on how you can help the proposed legislation become law, visit www.millionbabycrawl.com/.

Lately, I have realized that i have been placing much emphasis on the world’s youth – a multitude of programs, initiatives and organizations are finding that the youth of the world are becoming “rallymakers” for their cause.

Today’s youth have been born into a world where there is no room for compromise; where much-needed action is crucial in the face of the harsh environmental, political and social changes we have looming over our planet in the decades to come.

Here is a quick list of past posts highlighting not only what this blooming generation is bringing to the table, but also the programs and efforts offered to help educate and guide them in the right direction.

How to inspire kids to connect with nature

The Children of the Earth Foundation has expanded its youth “Survival School” to a new location in Grass Valley, California, bringing a rather unique approach to connecting children and nature in the western United States. The non-profit is offering week-long courses for youth, teens and families in California and British Columbia as well as working with local schools and groups to create programs that meet the goals and interests of each organization.

Youth call for governments to ‘Seal the Deal!’ action against climate change

Young people from around the world have challenged world leaders to take radical, positive measures to combat the problem of climate change in preparation for the U.N. summit in Copenhagen this winter. Approximately 700 young people – ranging from 10 to 24 years old – created the largest global youth gathering on climate change in history.

Teens work with the Obama administration to “Green the White House”

The Green the White House initiative, gives teens ideas, inspiration and expertise on how to make simple green changes around their homes, and help teach the rest of the world, including The First Family, how to green theirs.

Tourists can help stop child sex tourism in Peru

Young women and girls, as well as boys, are being exploited by a commercial sex industry fueled by increasing numbers of tourists who visit Peru to engage in sex with children. Travelers are banning together to help put an end to child sex tourism, or trafficking, out of Peru with a new campaign that aims to put pressure on the Peruvian government to pass sterner laws regarding the commercialization of children.

Al Gore’s ‘Climate Project’ partners to enable youth against global warming

The Climate Project, the world’s leading climate change organization founded by former Vice President Al Gore, has teamed with Athgo International, a global non-profit, to work on initiatives designed to mobilize global youth support to protect the environment and to develop solutions that promote a more efficient use of our natural resources.

The Climate Project partners with ‘Cool the Earth’ to teach kids about global warming

Al Gore’s Grassroots Organization, “The Climate Project”, is partnering with with Bay Area non-profit, “Cool the Earth”, to educate and motivate kids K-8 to preserve the environment and reduce global warming.

New National Children’s Museum inspires children to change the world

Scheduled to open in 2013, the National Children’s Museum will be a world-class cultural and educational center dedicated to engaging children and empowering them to make a difference.

Clinton Global Initiative and others motivate kids to help save endangered gorillas

The new children’s book, “Looking for Miza”, National Education Program and Kids Gorilla Summit raise awareness and empower children to participate in global issues.

New interactive website to help children learn about the environment

The new Chuckie Goodnight Foundation website provides users with an interactive experience to learn more about the non-profit environmental organization and ways to help spread environmental awareness.

Teen nature and wildlife adventures in Costa Rica

Wilderness Ventures is offering service programs to teens in Costa Rica’s Savegre Valley. This Costa Rican teenage community service exploration is an exciting combination of diverse adventure travel and stimulating cultural immersion in an unspoiled tropical paradise of pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, and a rainbow of colorful flowers and

JuvenesseSpa in Chicago supports PeaceJourney.com Youth Adventures

The grand opening events are now set for JuvenesseSpa, the exclusive Skincare Spa and Lifestyle Studio, opening September 21, 2008 in Chicago’s downtown River North art, culture and beauty district. September 21st, the United Nations International Day of Peace is significant to JuvenesseSpa because of the spa’s direct support of PeaceJourney.com Youth Adventures, the socially responsible program founded by Jeannette Kravitz, CEO of JuvenesseSpa and Skin Care.

Pacific Whale Foundation Offers Scholarships to Summer Ocean Discovery Camp

As part of their “No Child Left Indoors” program to make outdoor environmental education available to children of all income levels, Pacific Whale Foundation is offering two full scholarships and four partial scholarships to our Summer Ocean Discovery Camp.

Clean, green beaches are always good for family fun

As families and beach-lovers around the country prepare to flock to the shored for the July 4th weekend, the Clean Beach Council has just released its annual list of clean and healthy beaches for “National Clean Beaches Week” – highlighting family-friendly beaches that are clean, healthy and above all environmentally well-managed.

Fairmont and National Geographic create a kids ‘Explorers Camp’

Fairmont Scottsdale has just announced a new partnership with National Geographic through the creation of an all-new “Explorers Camp” for kids this summer, where eight world-renowned National Geographic explorers will share stories of their adventures with participating families.

Help stop child exploitation in the travel industry

As tourism and international travel across the globe reaches unprecedented levels, so does the need to combat child labor and sexual exploitation in the global travel industry – that is why the United Nations body for tourism is taking action now.

And that’s all, folks!

If you have an idea for a new story focused around the youth of the world, send me aline at info{at}terracurve{dot}com. OR, check out how to become an actual article contributor here!

Located in Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes region on the shores of Stoney Lake, Pine Vista Resort is an award winning cottage resort for nature lovers of all ages, perfect for any family summer vacation, fishing weekend, romantic couples retreat or girls getaway.

With ecotoursim being one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry, the resort’s new construction aims to develop a better understanding of the natural environment and developing a moment to protect it. Teeming with life, the resort’s wetlands boast diverse and abundant species of animals and fauna, including dozens of different species of birds.

Guests are invited to spend a few hours observing the wildlife on display and share their experiences and sightings with others via a trailside log book. A log book is available trailside so that guests may share with others their experiences and sightings.

Connecting kids to nature

During the summer, the boardwalk will be used in Pine Vista’s Kids Klub program – a place for kids to learn about the various components of our natural environment in a way that they can understand and that is fun for them.

Under the guidance of program leaders, the children will be using the information collected in the boardwalk sighting log to learn about the significance of wetlands, and their importance to the health and sustainability of the planet.

“Through our interpretative programs it is our goal to promote interest by developing an understanding of our role as humans to share, respect and care for natural systems that all creatures call home,” said Pine Vista Resort owner Bonnie Hamilton.

Nature-oriented tourism “makes sense”

Out-door recreation and environmentally sustainable tourism is building in popularity among Canadians. More and more people are participating in outdoor recreation due to greater awareness of the importance of health and fitness.

A number of outdoor, nature-based, non-consumptive recreation activities have experienced significant growth, while bird watching is rapidly becoming one of the most popular nature-based activities in Canada, followed by hiking and back-packing.

“Preserving our wetlands just makes sense,” added Hamilton. “Not only because it is the right thing to do but also because protected wildlife areas can make a significant economic contribution to communities. Rapidly growing activities like bird watching directly benefit areas that depend on tourism. Bird watchers and other eco tourists visit areas that actively protect the environment. We are pleased that Pine Vista Resort can play a part in protecting the environment and sustaining eco-friendly tourism.”

For more information, visit www.pinevista.com.

For Summer 2009, beaches in twenty states and U.S. territories, including American Samoa, California, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin, made the final cut.

“Because of the recession, the summer travel season is expected to be lighter than it has been in recent years, according to the Travel Industry Association of America, but still beaches remain one of the most popular destinations,” stated Walter McLeod, President of the Clean Beaches Council. “Even though millions of Americans spend time at beaches, there is still no easy way to determine which are clean and well managed. We hope our program increases public awareness of our individual responsibility to keep beaches clean and safe.”

This year’s announcement coincides with National Clean Beaches Week (NCBW) held annually from July 1-7. This “Earth Day” for beaches has four main themes: environment, healthy seafood, sustainable travel, and fitness.

Founded in 2004, NCBW has grown in mammoth proportion. More than fifty (50) coastal mayors and twenty-eight (28) coastal governors along with numerous counties have issued proclamations or resolutions endorsing the week. On Capitol Hill, the United States Senate and House of Representatives each unanimously passed Clean Beaches Week resolutions, and the U.S. President has traditionally honored the week.

Riding the Blue Wave

The Blue Wave is the first environmental certification program for beaches in the U.S. Now in its tenth year, the program has been called the “LEED” certification for beaches.

To become certified, beaches adhere to best management practices in the following areas: water quality, beach and intertidal conditions, hazards/safety, services, habitat conservation, erosion management, public information and education.

For a full listing of Blue Wave beaches, visit www.cleanbeaches.com.

Making safety first

The Clean Beaches Council has collaborated with Dr. Tom Griffiths, Director of Aquatics at The Pennsylvania State University to produce the “7 Tips for Family Beach Safety.” This guide is meant to help families make the most of their trip to the beach.

Here are some tips to make sure your next beach trip, whether solo or with the entire family, remains a safe one!

1. Keep kids within arms reach (especially in the sea, but also on land)
2. Don’t dive in (2/3 of catastrophic neck/head/spinal injuries occur in the ocean and sea)
3. Knee deep is too deep (strong winds, waves and currents create dangerous rip currents that can sweep a child out to sea)
4. Know before you go (swim near a lifeguard – know your flags; red means stop/green means go)
5. Take frequent breaks (every hour take a sun, bathroom, or water break)
6. Go with the wind (children tend to take the course of least resistance – follow the wind to find your lost kid)
7. Look but don’t touch (call local authorities to help injured/stranded sea life)

The New Jersey-based non-profit organization is offering week-long courses for youth, teens and families in California and British Columbia as well as working with local schools and groups to create programs that meet the goals and interests of each organization.

In a time when young people are so inundated with electronics, non-stop communication and a real disconnect from the natural world, families and groups are looking for opportunities to show them an alternative. The Children of the Earth Foundation provides this opportunity through half day to week-long programs that truly impact young lives.

Founded in 1999 by author and outdoorsman, Tom Brown Jr., the organization provides courses in survival, tracking and nature awareness to youth, teens and families.

As one teen participant shared; “This experience is amazing. It brings you out of the new and into the old. Nature’s beauty consumes you as it helps you learn new skills”.

Until now, operations have taken place from a New Jersey home base which allowed opportunities for area schools, scout troops, indigenous populations and other groups to have customized programs. Because of the cost of travel, programs offered in California and other western states were severely limited.

Youth interest in nature growing in leaps and bounds

With the opening of the new California branch this Spring, response has been very positive as homeschool groups, area tribes, schools and scout troops have discovered The Children of the Earth Foundation’s distinctive approach to the outdoors.

In Children of the Earth programs, children and teens are introduced to traditional skills used by indigenous peoples from around the world.

Participants learn outdoor survival skills like how to make shelters, make fire without matches using bow drill and hand drill methods, learn to find and purify water and find wild edibles. They also learn the ancient skills of making stone tools, tanning hides to make buckskin, making bows and arrows, baskets, pottery and other skills that have been lost from modern society.

Woven within the curriculum are lessons in respect for the Earth and understanding how it sustains our lives. The end result: participants exit the program with confidence, a sense of responsibility and a meaningful relationship with the natural world.

For more information, visit http://cotef.org.

The new program is the latest addition to the resort’s Planet Trekkers Kids Club – a club that lets kids ages 4-12 learn the importance of the Earth, water, plants and animals. It teaches youngsters how caring for the planet and its creatures can be fun.

Working together with the nonprofit Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC), the resort adopted a leatherback sea turtle. Listed by the U.S. federal government as endangered worldwide, the leatherback is known to nest in southeastern Florida, Puerto Rico and St. Croix.

All kids enrolled in the full-day program at the Planet Trekkers Kids Club gets a free “sea turtle adoption kit” that includes a personalized adoption certificate with the picture of the InterContinental San Juan’s leatherback sea turtle among other goodies.

The really cool part is that kids can track the the “adopted” turtle’s migratory patterns online for a whole year on CCC’s website via satellite tags and transmitters.

The turtles will also be participating in the “Tour de Turtles: A Sea Turtle Migration Marathon” starting August 1. For three months, Tour de Turtles will follow four species of sea turtles, using satellite-tracking technology, as they travel from their respective nesting sites to unknown feeding grounds, with the goal of being the first to complete the 2,620 km (1,628 mile) marathon.

“We hope our guests of all ages will enjoy learning about these endangered species and what measures we can all take to prevent their extinction,” said Sharon Kilmartin, general manager at the InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino. “Our resort is excited to work with the CCC to build awareness of the endangered species of sea turtles that grace the waters of Puerto Rico. It gives our guests a glimpse into the mysterious life cycles of sea turtles, which represent a special part of the natural world.”

The resort is also making a significant financial contribution and will continue to support CCC on its ongoing efforts to study and save sea turtles across the Caribbean.

“The waters and beaches of Puerto Rico provide critical habitat for sea turtles,” said David Godfrey, CCC executive director. “We applaud the InterContinental Resort for its support of sea turtle conservation. Efforts to protect and recover sea turtle populations benefit greatly from the kind of partnership they are forming with CCC.”

A race for survial

With as few as one out of 1,000 hatchlings surviving to adulthood, sea turtle conservation must focus on combating human-caused threats through research and education. By tracking sea turtle migrations using satellite technology, scientists can learn more about these mysterious mariners and the routes they take. This knowledge helps researchers, conservationists and governing agencies make more informed decisions about sea turtle conservation methods and policies.

Just as with human marathons, each turtle will swim to raise awareness about a particular “cause” or threat to their survival. Utilizing interactive online maps, videos and games, Tour de Turtles will focus on the biology and conservation of sea turtles and their habitats.

For more information, visit www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/sanjuan.

"We are honored that the Web Marketing Association awarded an IAC ‘Best Travel Website’ Award to Adventures by Disney," said Don Gross, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. "With our 2009 re-design, we sought to combine a user-friendly format with highly informative content, including features to better assist families planning vacations. We continue to raise the bar by enhancing our creativity with the latest technology."

Using a newly created Trip Selector tool, the new website clearly guides travelers through destinations across six continents to make navigating our website as easy as Adventures by Disney makes navigating the world. New featured videos capture breathtaking footage from actual vacations and for the youngest travelers, online activities such as itinerary specific games, trivia, photos and coloring maps help familiarize them with each destination, while also teaching them about the world. Many of the website enhancements support Adventures by Disney’s environmentally conscious focus. The site offers Guests the opportunity to mitigate the carbon footprints created by their air travel to and from each destination. Travelers can also download the enhanced trip itineraries or print select pages of the E-brochure. Phase 2.0 of the redesign will coincide with the launch of Adventures by Disney’s 2010 season in August 2009.

Recreating family travel
Adventures by Disney is re-creating the way families think about vacationing together.

Launched in 2005, Adventures by Disney provides immersive, hassle-free and exhilarating guided family vacation experiences to destinations in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Families traveling with Adventures by Disney receive exceptional service while taking part in extraordinary experiences from Prague to Paris, Yellowstone to Costa Rica, the ruins of Pompeii to the ruins of Machu Picchu, the Great Barrier Reef to the Great Wall of China and more.

With Disney-trained Adventure Guides, engaging activities, VIP experiences and personal touches throughout, Adventures by Disney excites and delights every member of the family. Guests wanting more information about Adventures by Disney can visit www.adventuresbydisney.com .

“By aligning with organizations that have built successful regional models like Cool The Earth, The Climate Project can reach more people and create momentum exponentially,” says Jenny Clad, Executive Director of The Climate Project. “The climate crisis is an urgent issue that affects everyone. Cool The Earth is an example of citizen involvement at the grassroots level which can make a difference when it comes to protecting our planet.”

Through its extracurricular program, Cool The Earth educates K-8 students about global warming and provides them the tools to motivate their whole family to take simple actions to reduce their residential carbon emissions. The rapidly expanding program, running in over 150 schools and youth groups, has now been responsible for motivating over 37,000 energy-saving actions, taken by over 25,000 families, and eliminating approximately 30 million pounds of carbon.

“We are excited to partner with this prestigious organization in our fight against global warming,” says Carleen Cullen, co-founder and executive director of Cool The Earth. “Our school-based program offers families easy-to-take actions to decrease energy consumption and increases civic engagement in climate change solutions. Coupled with The Climate Project’s message, we feel our program has the potential to serve as a catalyst for turning communities across the country into more energy-efficient and energy-conscious consumers.”

With its global headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee, The Climate Project began operations in June 2006 with the mission of increasing public awareness of the climate crisis in the United States and abroad. The organization consists of a professional staff and more than 2,600 volunteers worldwide who have been personally trained by Gore to present a version of the slide show featured in the Academy Award-winning film An Inconvenient Truth. In 2009, it expanded its mission with a new commitment to advocacy and activism to combat the climate crisis.

For Carleen Cullen, who co-founded Cool The Earth with her husband, the partnership with The Climate Project is particularly meaningful because she was originally inspired to form her organization after viewing the Gore film An Inconvenient Truth. Concerned for the future of her children and future generations, she launched Cool The Earth at her children’s elementary school in Kentfield, CA in the spring of 2007. Within two years the fledgling organization has been able to galvanize parents and leaders in the community to expand the program to 150 schools and youth groups throughout the Bay Area.

The partnership hopes to reach 250 schools, 100,000 students, and 200,000 parents during the 2009-2010 school year.

With its unique mission, NCM strives to teach children how to become informed, active citizens. NCM’s eco-friendly building provides another means to demonstrate the Museum’s commitment to children and the planet. Through its new space, NCM will encourage and foster an understanding and love of nature; champion outdoor play (in the Museum courtyard and beyond); and encourage the use of natural materials to foster connections to the environment, helping kids become better stewards of the earth.

“The building’s overall design reflects the mission of the National Children’s Museum through a series of dynamic architectural forms surrounding a large exterior courtyard,” said Cesar Pelli, Senior Principal of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects. “Areas of the structure vary in shape and size to create a ‘village of forms’ that provides great architectural scale and experiential variety to the visitor, along with intuitive wayfinding and seamless interaction between exhibits, programs, and activities. In all aspects, the design seeks to encourage and inspire children to think about their role in the community and the world.”

In his FY 2010 capital budget, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley included $5 million towards the construction of the Museum.

“We are thrilled to welcome this beautiful new museum to Maryland,” said Governor O’Malley. “The National Children’s Museum’s green building is a wonderful example of best practices in sustainability, and demonstrates a commitment to the environment that sends a positive message to children and families in our region, across the country, and around the world.”

Green Features
The Museum plans to incorporate a number of green features in the new building, including:

• A Wind Turbine: The building’s wind turbine, a symbol of NCM’s commitment to sustainable and renewable energy, will be a source of power.
• A Sun Reflector: A series of reflective panels on the roof of the arrival space will reflect sunlight, minimize artificial lighting, and reduce energy loads during the day.
• A Living Wall: The Museum’s south facing façade features a cable and tray system to support a framework for a living, green wall. The Living Wall will shade the building from the bright, hot southern sun, helping to cool the building and reduce energy demands.
• A Green Roof: A green roof system will provide for sedums and small scale planting, absorb rainwater (reducing storm run off), improve thermal insulation, and reduce the “heat island” effect.
• Recycled Materials: The new Museum will use recycled structural steel and some recycled brick from demolished buildings.

When completed, the new NCM will house exhibits, programs, and resources designed to spark the imagination and celebrate the power of children and their families. Interior exhibits will highlight six core content areas (the environment, health and well-being, play, civic engagement, the arts, and world cultures) and will be created by three prominent design firms: Amaze Design, Roto Studios, and Aldrich Pears. The Museum is projected to attract 600,000 visitors annually.

NCM Launch Zone and Website Provide “Kid Ownership”

Children and families will learn about the green building through two new initiatives that embody the NCM mission and provide “kid ownership” of the new Museum: The NCM Launch Zone and the new NCM website. On April 25, the Museum will open the NCM Launch Zone at National Harbor, a 2,700 square-foot space on Waterfront Street. Open to the public seven days a week, the Launch Zone is a place where children can prototype exhibit components and programs; share their ideas about what should be included in the new Museum; learn about NCM’s green features; and participate in programs related to the Museum’s six core content areas. Through images, table-top interactive exhibits, and computer kiosks, NCM will introduce select areas of the Museum, while soliciting feedback and input from the children and families. The Launch Zone will also host ongoing Museum Without Walls programming, professional development workshops and trainings, and community learning events for parents and caregivers.

A newly designed NCM website features new and updated Museum information, a schedule of activities, opportunities to get involved with the organization, as well as a virtual Launch Zone. The Launch Zone page provides kids from across the country the opportunity to learn about NCM’s green building features, test select exhibit and program content, and help shape the Museum through rotating interactive experiences.

“NCM belongs to the nation’s children and these new experiences provide additional opportunities for children and their families to share their voices and shape the Museum’s exhibit and program content,” said S. Ross Hechinger, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Children’s Museum. “We look forward to continuing to introduce innovative ways for children to care about and improve the world as we build our new home.”

Through its interactive exhibits, online community, and unique national programs and partnerships, NCM is transforming the concept of a traditional museum by becoming a catalyst and forum for a national movement to inspire and empower kids to speak up, take action, and get engaged in their communities.

NCM’s Board of Trustees and volunteer leadership continues the Museum’s national campaign to build the new institution, reaching out to potential contributors in the public and private sectors in the Washington community and across the country.

For more info, visit http://www.ncm.museum.

Set in the Sonoran Desert, the Fairmont Scottsdale reflects the Southwest with its Spanish style architecture, 649 guest rooms, five swimming pools, Willow Stream spa and championship golf at TPC Scottsdale. The resort is operated by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and is owned by Strategic Hotels & Resorts.

Navigating a GPS to discover desert creatures, going on a photo safari or meeting real-life explorers, the Fairmont Scottsdale is making this summer an adventure. The luxury resort in Arizona is partnering with National Geographic for the first National Geographic Explorers Camp, exclusively for its overnight guests.

From May 22-September 7, 2009, the camp offers discovery-based activities for children ages 5-12, with half-day and full-day sessions. Campers trek on a “Desert Discovery” GPS treasure hunt, go on a “Photo Safari,” have fun at a “Geo Bowl” geography bee, and play on gigantic, highly-detailed maps of continents.

Best of all, eight world-renowned National Geographic explorers will share stories of their adventures on select Saturdays beginning May 30. The speakers interact with youngsters at the day camp, then give a special presentation at a Saturday dinner for the whole family.
- Greg Marshall, Biologist/Inventor/Filmmaker May 30
- Brady Barr, Reptile Expert June 13
- Zeb Hogan, Aquatic Ecologist June 27
- Tim Samaras, Tornado Researcher July 11
- Joel Sartore, Photographer August 1
- Mireya Mayor, Primatologist August 8
- Kobie Boykins, NASA Engineer August 22
- Mark Moffett, Ecologist September 5

Summer room rates for Fairmont Scottsdale begin at $199 per room, with a daily $100 dining credit, May 10-September 20, 2009. The Explorers Camp is a la carte and prices start at $49 for a half-day session, and each camper receives a backpack. The Saturday speaker dinner is $15-$30 for kids and adults.

Families also enjoy 200-foot waterslides, “dive-in” movies, fishing, basketball, teen “Hang Out” and complimentary child amenities upon request.

For more information, visit, www.fairmont.com/scottsdale or www.nationalgeographic.com.

“Weaving sustainability into every aspect of our operations and our travellers’ experience is the essence of G.A.P Adventures,” said Richard G. Edwards, Director of Planeterra, the non profit foundation founded by G.A.P Adventures. “Earth Month is an opportunity to question how as a business or as a traveller one can integrate sustainability into every decision, to not only lessen impact on ecosystems and other cultures, but to create positive impacts.

“Our experienced Product Development team and field offices have demonstrated a strong commitment to designing tours that ensure the protection of local people and the environment. Working in partnership with our local leaders and guides, we strive to operate our tours in a manner in which our dedication to sustainability is evident on every G.A.P Adventures trip.”

Dollar-A-Day program – Double the impact
In honour of Earth Month G.A.P Adventures will match each donation to our Dollar-A-Day program. This initiative provides travellers with the opportunity to donate one dollar per day for the duration of their tour with 100% of these proceeds going directly to support Planeterra projects.

Planeterra supports more than 25 local community projects, as well as non-profit organizations and international charities that focus on the areas of health, education, community development, environmental conservation and employment skills training.

Projects include:

Kenya Community Tourism Project: Through Planeterra we are working to raise funds to install water tanks in a remote village in western Kenya. By purchasing and installing 3,000 litre water tanks, time and energy spent hauling water for survival in the past can now be invested in education, further agricultural production, and other economic activities.

Brazil Reforestation Program: Through our partnership with Trees for the Future, we are working with local communities in the development of a reforestation program, which seeks to improve living conditions and increase agricultural production in the area. The initiative includes training programs for 100 local farmers which teach practical techniques to manage land sustainably. Over the coming year we aim to plant over 1 million trees and native plant species in an effort to reduce the negative impact that deforestation has on climate change, while improving the living conditions of local people in the area.

New Delhi Street Kids Project: Through Planeterra’s partnership with Salaam Baalak Trust, we provide scholarships to young people who once lived and worked on the streets of Delhi. Travellers on G.A.P Adventures Project India trip can also choose to take part in a city walk led by a child who was once living and working on the streets.

Cuba Greening Project: Through Planeterra, we support a schoolyard greening program that brings together elementary school principals, teachers and students in creating a natural green space on their school grounds. The children are involved in all stages of the hands-on planning, design and implementation of the project. It allows them to decide what to incorporate into their green space, including native trees and shrubs, fruit trees, organic vegetable gardens, composting and medicinal plant gardens.

Minimizing our impact
G.A.P Adventures has taken numerous steps to reduce its impact on the environment. The company demonstrates its desire to be a responsible member of our local communities through the following initiatives:

Public Transportation Subsidy: In an effort to encourage Head Office staff to do their part to reduce air pollution, individuals who purchase passes for use on Toronto’s public transportation system are provided with a monthly subsidy.

Supporting Green Energy: Head Office, and Toronto, Calgary, Melbourne and New York Concept Stores are all 100% powered by green energy providers including Bullfrogpower. These companies provide green electricity and purchase power exclusively from wind and low-impact hydro generators.

PEFC Certified Brochures: All G.A.P Adventures brochures are 100% PEFC certified. The PEFC Council (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) is an international organization focused on promoting sustainable forest management.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle: In an effort to reduce paper within the office, all fax transmissions and pay stubs are sent electronically. G.A.P Adventures also donates used computers and equipment to reBoot Canada, who refurbish these items for people with limited access to technology.

Clean Air Commute: Pollution Probe hosts the Clean Air Commute, a weeklong event to promote awareness of Toronto’s air quality. G.A.P Adventures has won awards for the past seven years as a result of 100% staff participation in using cleaner methods of commuting to work.

Volunteer Adventures– Save 10%
Volunteer adventures are a way to give back to the communities and regions we visit. Travellers can make a difference to the local communities while taking a hands-on approach to bringing about positive change.

G.A.P Adventures encourages travellers to experience this life-changing way of travel and is pleased to offer 10% off volunteer tours booked by April 30, 2009.

G.A.P Adventures offers a variety of volunteer adventures to choose from including:

Project South Africa
Volunteer opportunities include working with local preschools and elementary schools, assisting teachers with many programs, including reading, arts and crafts and sports – and helping to paint and refurbish classrooms and school buildings.

Project Costa Rica
Work along side local and international volunteers to help protect endangered sea turtles. Volunteer activities include night patrols along the beach, data collection, beach clean-up and area maintenance, monitoring of the baby turtle hatchery, counting baby turtles and releasing them.

Project Peru
Help build a Peruvian cooking stove with plenty of time to relax and explore. Benefits of the stove include the removal of smoke from the kitchen, a 50% decrease of wood usage and the reduction of eye and lung infections especially among women and children. No building experience is required.

About G.A.P Adventures
G.A.P Adventures is a world leader in the adventure travel industry offering small group adventures on all seven continents and beyond to more than 85,000 global travellers annually. The award-winning trips, which focus on culture, nature and active travel, are ideal for those with a sense of adventure – people who want to leave the beaten path and authentically immerse themselves in a local culture or environment to experience the real world in a sustainable manner. Demonstrating its ongoing cultural, social and economic commitment to responsible tourism, G.A.P Adventures established the Planeterra Foundation, as a way the company and its passengers can give back to the communities visited.

For more information, visit www.gapadventures.com and www.planeterra.org.