Whether it's getting to work on time, or crossing off the last item on our bucket list, life is a race against the clock -- and right now, we aren't winning. We've spent the last decades without much regard to how our actions will impact our ecosystems and environment, forgetting that our own future depends on the health of our Earth. But now that we've started to see the consequences of our actions, as well as realize the immense benefits we can gain through understanding and preserving our environment, it's becoming clear how important it is to save our planet. And while we can't turn back the hands, or stop the seconds from ticking, we can make sure we don't waste the precious moments we are given. We, along with our partner Rainforest Alliance, hope you will take the time to help us work towards a future where our environment not just survives, but thrives, for generations to come.
As our first article highlights, we have much to do as individuals and a global community in order to turn our environmental crisis around, and unfortunately, time is not on our side. The author applies the theme of this year's World Environment Day, Many Species, One Planet, One Future, to help remind us of our "complete and critical dependence on our environment." Also pointing out the urgency by emphasizing that, "the momentum towards environmental catastrophe builds at a cascading pace." However, the author gives hope that just because we've started this mess, doesn't mean we can't clean it up. Stating that "through cooperation, common purpose and shared goals about our environment and our future" we will be able to change our path of destruction.
New research is also helping make clear that saving our environment doesn't mean compromising our future. According to this study, protecting rainforests reduces poverty as well as conserving biodiversity. The analysis revealed that "the introduction of measures to protect rainforests and ecosystems in Costa Rica and Thailand over the past 40 years have improved the livelihoods of the local population," proving once again how the benefits of a healthy environment extend far beyond the trees. And it's not just scientists who are realizing the advantages of understanding and preserving our planet. The corporate world is also getting in on the action, as seen in this article that reveals how businesses are taking design inspiration from the natural world to improve "their green credentials and drive design innovation."
Lastly, we look at how one Amazon tribe is hoping to use the Internet as a way to save their rainforests. The Surui Tribe has been selected as the first indigenous group to be paid by the world to preserve its forest, and Chief Almir Narayamoga Surui believes that combining technology with tradition will be the "only way they can save their forest, their culture, and their tribe." Almir Surui is planning to reverse the deforestation that has devastated his homeland through "the Internet, Google Earth, and GPS." While only time will tell if the outcome is a success, Almir Surui is clearly showing the commitment and dedication it requires to winning this battle against climate change.
Time is running out to save our planet from irreversible damage. Join us on Facebook and get involved in the fight for a sustainable and brighter future. We have the tools to make a difference, so let's start using them - the clock is ticking.