greenpeace--2020-04-23--5 moments I’ll never forget from my journey across the seas

5 moments I ’ ll never forget from my journey across the seas My name is Jackie , I 'm a Digital Campaigner at Greenpeace International and I was onboard the ships for five different stages of Greenpeace 's pole-to-pole expedition .
Join me as I share with you my most wonderful , shocking and unforgettable moments of this journey across the seas .
I said to myself when I saw the first iceberg in the distance .
We were officially in Antarctic waters.
” In April 2019 , Greenpeace ships set sail on an epic voyage across the oceans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Pole .
On this year-long expedition , the team onboard was joined by scientists and experts to conduct crucial scientific research , witness threats first hand and strengthen the case for a strong Global Ocean Treaty to protect our oceans .
My name is Jackie , I ’ m a Digital Campaigner at Greenpeace International and I was onboard the ships for five different stages of this expedition .
Join me as I share with you my most wonderful , shocking and unforgettable moments of this journey across the seas .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read about the estimated 100 million sharks that are caught and killed in fishing nets every year .
But these facts shocked me on a different level when I saw the numbers translated in real sharks struggling in front of my eyes – one after the other .
In June , on route from the UK to the Azores , the Greenpeace ship Esperanza passed through the North Atlantic swordfish fishing grounds , where we peacefully confronted the fishing industry and their destructive practices .
Every minute was difficult to watch .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knot in my throat while documenting .
It was heartbreaking to see the reality our oceans are facing .
If you hear the word “ oceans , ” the first images that come to mind are probably whales and sea birds , however , there is a lot of undiscovered life and wonder in the oceans .
While we were in the Sargasso Sea , an area in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean , we had on board a team of underwater photographers to capture the splendor of this unique ecosystem using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an emerging art form in which photographers dive into the open ocean at night , completely untethered .
Something I will never forget is watching the sunset as we got ready to launch rhibs for the blackwater dives in the middle of the night .
Each night , the team dove down to depths of more than 30 meters and the creatures we found were incredible and unique .
Some of them are even species to be identified .
We were all very touched by the beauty and fragility of this sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Arctic Sunrise hosted meetings with representatives from West Africa fisheries and local fishing folks and associations , to work together and put pressure on fishery authorities to protect the oceans .
As the ship was departing Dakar to investigate distant water fishing fleet practices in the Mid-Atlantic , a flotilla of local fishermen on colorful traditional boats gave us a lovely send off – sending their good wishes and displaying banners with various messages including “ Protect the Oceans ” .
Suddenly it started to rain quite hard and I was moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there with the banners up and smiles on their faces .
It meant a lot to me as it made me realize how we are all together in this mission to safeguard biodiversity and ensure the sustainable use of the resources on which many of the world ’ s most vulnerable people depend .
“ This is real .
I am here .
” I said to myself as I saw my first iceberg in the distance while holding back some tears .
Being in the Antarctic can get overwhelming because there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t know where to look at .
While I was admiring everything with happiness the reality check that all of it is in danger hit me and I felt a huge responsibility to do everything I could to protect the heart of the oceans and all the precious wildlife that calls this wonderful place their home .
While getting ready for a peaceful protest in Antarctic waters , I take a look at our team on board .
We have activists , researchers , engineers , crew and campaigners .
We are a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with multiple talents and abilities , with the same mission .
Our oceans are in crisis and no matter in which part of the world you live , your gender , your language , your age , everyone ’ s fate is bound to the fate of our oceans .
The team onboard the Greenpeace ships is like a family and knowing we all share the same ideals coming from different countries and cultures made this whole experience much more meaningful and inspiring .
Ultimately , as members of the human race , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our home .
I ’ ve learned many things on this journey about the fragile state of the seas .
Now more than ever there is no time to waste .
Our oceans are facing many threats : Climate change , plastic pollution , deep-sea mining , overfishing – all of them getting more urgent every day .
But there is hope : a strong Global Ocean Treaty is a vital step towards protecting a third of our seas by 2030 and only with your help and support , this can become a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Join the movement to protect the oceans HERE and if you have already signed , spread the word !
Ocean defense is self-defense and we need all hands on deck to protect our blue planet , our loved ones , and the future generations .

5 moments I’ll never forget from my journey across the seas
My name is Jackie, I'm a Digital Campaigner at Greenpeace International and I was onboard the ships for five different stages of Greenpeace's pole-to-pole expedition. Join me as I share with you my most wonderful, shocking and unforgettable moments of this journey across the seas.
“This is real. I am here”
I said to myself when I saw the first iceberg in the distance.
We were officially in Antarctic waters.”
In April 2019, Greenpeace ships set sail on an epic voyage across the oceans, from the North Pole to the South Pole. On this year-long expedition, the team onboard was joined by scientists and experts to conduct crucial scientific research, witness threats first hand and strengthen the case for a strong Global Ocean Treaty to protect our oceans.
My name is Jackie, I’m a Digital Campaigner at Greenpeace International and I was onboard the ships for five different stages of this expedition. Join me as I share with you my most wonderful, shocking and unforgettable moments of this journey across the seas.
1. Sharks under attack
I had heard about destructive fishing before and read about the estimated 100 million sharks that are caught and killed in fishing nets every year. But these facts shocked me on a different level when I saw the numbers translated in real sharks struggling in front of my eyes – one after the other.
In June, on route from the UK to the Azores, the Greenpeace ship Esperanza passed through the North Atlantic swordfish fishing grounds, where we peacefully confronted the fishing industry and their destructive practices.
Every minute was difficult to watch. There was no mercy. I remember the knot in my throat while documenting. It was heartbreaking to see the reality our oceans are facing.
2. Magic beneath the Sargasso Sea
If you hear the word “oceans,” the first images that come to mind are probably whales and sea birds, however, there is a lot of undiscovered life and wonder in the oceans.
While we were in the Sargasso Sea, an area in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, we had on board a team of underwater photographers to capture the splendor of this unique ecosystem using a method called Blackwater photography. This is an emerging art form in which photographers dive into the open ocean at night, completely untethered. Something I will never forget is watching the sunset as we got ready to launch rhibs for the blackwater dives in the middle of the night. Each night, the team dove down to depths of more than 30 meters and the creatures we found were incredible and unique. Some of them are even species to be identified. We were all very touched by the beauty and fragility of this sea.
3. Heartwarming greetings
During the stop in Dakar, the Arctic Sunrise hosted meetings with representatives from West Africa fisheries and local fishing folks and associations, to work together and put pressure on fishery authorities to protect the oceans.
As the ship was departing Dakar to investigate distant water fishing fleet practices in the Mid-Atlantic, a flotilla of local fishermen on colorful traditional boats gave us a lovely send off – sending their good wishes and displaying banners with various messages including “Protect the Oceans”.
Suddenly it started to rain quite hard and I was moved by the fact the flotilla was still there with the banners up and smiles on their faces. It meant a lot to me as it made me realize how we are all together in this mission to safeguard biodiversity and ensure the sustainable use of the resources on which many of the world’s most vulnerable people depend.
4. The first iceberg
“This is real. I am here. ” I said to myself as I saw my first iceberg in the distance while holding back some tears. Being in the Antarctic can get overwhelming because there is so much beauty, you don’t know where to look at. While I was admiring everything with happiness the reality check that all of it is in danger hit me and I felt a huge responsibility to do everything I could to protect the heart of the oceans and all the precious wildlife that calls this wonderful place their home.
5. A shared responsibility
While getting ready for a peaceful protest in Antarctic waters, I take a look at our team on board. We have activists, researchers, engineers, crew and campaigners. We are a highly prepared team of women and men with multiple talents and abilities, with the same mission.
Our oceans are in crisis and no matter in which part of the world you live, your gender, your language, your age, everyone’s fate is bound to the fate of our oceans. The team onboard the Greenpeace ships is like a family and knowing we all share the same ideals coming from different countries and cultures made this whole experience much more meaningful and inspiring. Ultimately, as members of the human race, it is a shared responsibility to protect our home.
I’ve learned many things on this journey about the fragile state of the seas. Now more than ever there is no time to waste. Our oceans are facing many threats: Climate change, plastic pollution, deep-sea mining, overfishing – all of them getting more urgent every day. But there is hope: a strong Global Ocean Treaty is a vital step towards protecting a third of our seas by 2030 and only with your help and support, this can become a reality.
Be an Ocean Defender! Join the movement to protect the oceans HERE and if you have already signed, spread the word! Ocean defense is self-defense and we need all hands on deck to protect our blue planet, our loved ones, and the future generations.


greenpeace--2020-04-24--6 battles Greenpeace has waged for the Tongass National Forest, and why we are still fighting today

6 battles Greenpeace has waged for the Tongass National Forest , and why we are still fighting today As 2020 gears up to be a critical year for the Tongass , we are reflecting on the extraordinary lengths Greenpeace has gone for this rare temperate rainforest .
Four lawsuits , a road blockade , and visits by Greenpeace ’ s ships , decorate the decades-long battle Greenpeace has endured to keep one of the last great wild spaces on the planet – the Tongass National Forest – safe for us and future generations .
The Tongass National Forest , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the largest undisturbed ecosystems in the US .
Covering much of the Alaska panhandle in southeast Alaska , the Tongass is a land of old growth forests , mountains , glaciers and waterways home to Native Alaskans .
It stores an incredible amount of carbon , and is filled with bountiful and unique wildlife .
Unfortunately this critical part of our natural heritage has come under constant attack from logging companies , other extractive industries , and the politicians in their pockets .
As 2020 gears up to be a critical year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the extraordinary lengths Greenpeace has gone for this rare temperate rainforest .
In August 2004 , 19 Greenpeace activists chained themselves to bulldozers and built road blockades in the Tongass National Forest to stand up against efforts by then President George W. Bush to remove Roadless Rule protections across the country .
At the same time , the Greenpeace ship , the Arctic Sunrise , was in the salmon-rich waters off Prince of Wales Island to show the rest of the world this magnificent landscape at risk .
In the final days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rule was signed into law — granting protection to portions of our public lands not yet degraded by roads , logging , drilling and other commercial exploitation .
However , from the moment the Roadless Rule was enacted , it has come under constant attack — especially for places like the Tongass .
2 .
Going to Court for the Roadless Rule In 2005 , Greenpeace , along with 19 other conservation organizations , sued the Bush Administration in order to reinstate the original Roadless Rule — a decade-old popular safeguard against logging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our public lands and wilderness — instead of a much weaker states petition process he had put into place .
In 2008 , Greenpeace , along with Cascadia Wildlands , sued the US Forest Service over four timber sales in the Tongass that would have allowed 1,700 acres of old growth forest to be cleared .
After a ten-year legal fight , the logging projects were permanently stopped over the Forest Service ’ s inadequate consideration of the detrimental environmental impacts the logging would have had on wildlife .
In 2014 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US Fish and Wildlife Service over delaying much needed protections under the Endangered Species Act for the incredibly rare Alexander Archipelago wolf , found exclusively in southeast Alaska .
A long history of clear-cut logging on the Tongass and private and state-owned lands has devastated much of the wolf ’ s habitat .
Unfortunately we lost that battle , so without protections and scientifically informed trapping quotas , a devastating numbers of wolves have been killed recently , placing the future of this species in grave peril .
5 .
Back in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Alaska ’ s latest attempt to remove Roadless Rule protections for the Tongass and all state wild lands was struck down in federal court after Greenpeace and several allies intervened in the case .
In January 2020 , Greenpeace helped a coalition-wide effort to deliver over 400,000 comments to the US Forest Service in opposition to the President Trump ’ s plan to repeal Roadless Rule protections across more than 9 million acres of the Tongass National Forest , opening the door to extractive industries to bulldoze roads and clear-cut trees in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off-limits for decades .
As we gear up to continue fighting for the Tongass in 2020 , we are constantly reminded of the reasons why this national forest is so special and in need of protection .
Ending the practice of old growth logging and leaving undisturbed places untouched would be a game changer for people and our planet .
Old growth logging in the Tongass not only scars the landscape as it removes trees as old as 800 years , but it is bad for the local economy .
It also destroys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carbon , house wildlife , and function for Native Alaskans .
Luckily , Greenpeace and allies have history on our side .
Through so many legal challenges , destructive agency decisions , and toxic presidential actions aimed at undermining the Roadless Rule and the Tongass National Forest , Greenpeace and allies have been there .
We know the months ahead will pose new challenges , that polluters and their allies in government will not quit , but with all of you by our side , we can assure you that we are not @ @ @

6 battles Greenpeace has waged for the Tongass National Forest, and why we are still fighting today
As 2020 gears up to be a critical year for the Tongass, we are reflecting on the extraordinary lengths Greenpeace has gone for this rare temperate rainforest.
Four lawsuits, a road blockade, and visits by Greenpeace’s ships, decorate the decades-long battle Greenpeace has endured to keep one of the last great wild spaces on the planet – the Tongass National Forest – safe for us and future generations.
The Tongass National Forest, at almost 17 million acres, is one of the largest undisturbed ecosystems in the US. Covering much of the Alaska panhandle in southeast Alaska, the Tongass is a land of old growth forests, mountains, glaciers and waterways home to Native Alaskans. It stores an incredible amount of carbon, and is filled with bountiful and unique wildlife.
Unfortunately this critical part of our natural heritage has come under constant attack from logging companies, other extractive industries, and the politicians in their pockets. As 2020 gears up to be a critical year for the Tongass, we are reflecting on the extraordinary lengths Greenpeace has gone for this rare temperate rainforest.
1. Blockade Action
In August 2004, 19 Greenpeace activists chained themselves to bulldozers and built road blockades in the Tongass National Forest to stand up against efforts by then President George W. Bush to remove Roadless Rule protections across the country. At the same time, the Greenpeace ship, the Arctic Sunrise, was in the salmon-rich waters off Prince of Wales Island to show the rest of the world this magnificent landscape at risk.
In the final days of the Clinton Administration, the Roadless Rule was signed into law — granting protection to portions of our public lands not yet degraded by roads, logging, drilling and other commercial exploitation. However, from the moment the Roadless Rule was enacted, it has come under constant attack — especially for places like the Tongass.
2. Going to Court for the Roadless Rule
In 2005, Greenpeace, along with 19 other conservation organizations, sued the Bush Administration in order to reinstate the original Roadless Rule — a decade-old popular safeguard against logging and road building in previously untouched areas of our public lands and wilderness — instead of a much weaker states petition process he had put into place.
3. Stopping Destructive Timber Sales
In 2008, Greenpeace, along with Cascadia Wildlands, sued the US Forest Service over four timber sales in the Tongass that would have allowed 1,700 acres of old growth forest to be cleared. After a ten-year legal fight, the logging projects were permanently stopped over the Forest Service’s inadequate consideration of the detrimental environmental impacts the logging would have had on wildlife.
4. Endangered Status for Alexander Archipelago Wolves
In 2014, Greenpeace, along with allies, sued the US Fish and Wildlife Service over delaying much needed protections under the Endangered Species Act for the incredibly rare Alexander Archipelago wolf, found exclusively in southeast Alaska. A long history of clear-cut logging on the Tongass and private and state-owned lands has devastated much of the wolf’s habitat. Unfortunately we lost that battle, so without protections and scientifically informed trapping quotas, a devastating numbers of wolves have been killed recently, placing the future of this species in grave peril.
5. Back in Court for the Roadless Rule
In 2017, Alaska’s latest attempt to remove Roadless Rule protections for the Tongass and all state wild lands was struck down in federal court after Greenpeace and several allies intervened in the case.
6. Your Voice for Intact Forests
In January 2020, Greenpeace helped a coalition-wide effort to deliver over 400,000 comments to the US Forest Service in opposition to the President Trump’s plan to repeal Roadless Rule protections across more than 9 million acres of the Tongass National Forest, opening the door to extractive industries to bulldoze roads and clear-cut trees in areas of the Tongass that have been off-limits for decades.
As we gear up to continue fighting for the Tongass in 2020, we are constantly reminded of the reasons why this national forest is so special and in need of protection. Ending the practice of old growth logging and leaving undisturbed places untouched would be a game changer for people and our planet. Old growth logging in the Tongass not only scars the landscape as it removes trees as old as 800 years, but it is bad for the local economy. It also destroys the forest’s ability to sequester carbon, house wildlife, and function for Native Alaskans.
Luckily, Greenpeace and allies have history on our side. Through so many legal challenges, destructive agency decisions, and toxic presidential actions aimed at undermining the Roadless Rule and the Tongass National Forest, Greenpeace and allies have been there. We know the months ahead will pose new challenges, that polluters and their allies in government will not quit, but with all of you by our side, we can assure you that we are not going anywhere.


greenpeace--2020-04-24--12 photos of adorable, awkward penguins from our expedition to the Antarctic

12 photos of adorable , awkward penguins from our expedition to the Antarctic Earlier this year , we visited the magical Antarctic as a part of a year-long voyage from pole to pole calling for ocean protection .
One of the highlights of our time there was meeting incredible Antarctic wildlife , including whales , seals , and thousands of cute penguins .
Because April 25th is World Penguin Day , we thought we ’ d share our favorite photos of our clumsy , cheeky little friends .
Although it looks idyllic , life isn ’ t without its challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the expedition , our team of scientists found that climate breakdown is impacting penguins pretty severely .
But luckily , there ’ s a way to help them .
As wildlife struggles , we urgently need new ocean sanctuaries in the Antarctic and across the world , so animals like these penguins have the space to recover and adapt to a rapidly changing climate .
More than 3 million people are calling for a network of ocean sanctuaries , and a strong Global Ocean Treaty which would enable it .
Together we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of our voices .
Add yours today !

12 photos of adorable, awkward penguins from our expedition to the Antarctic
Earlier this year, we visited the magical Antarctic as a part of a year-long voyage from pole to pole calling for ocean protection. One of the highlights of our time there was meeting incredible Antarctic wildlife, including whales, seals, and thousands of cute penguins. Because April 25th is World Penguin Day, we thought we’d share our favorite photos of our clumsy, cheeky little friends.
Enjoy!
Although it looks idyllic, life isn’t without its challenges for penguins in the Antarctic. During the expedition, our team of scientists found that climate breakdown is impacting penguins pretty severely.
But luckily, there’s a way to help them. As wildlife struggles, we urgently need new ocean sanctuaries in the Antarctic and across the world, so animals like these penguins have the space to recover and adapt to a rapidly changing climate.
More than 3 million people are calling for a network of ocean sanctuaries, and a strong Global Ocean Treaty which would enable it. Together we can make it happen, but we need all of our voices. Add yours today!


greenpeace--2020-04-27--Land grabbers, loggers and miners don’t self-isolate

Around this time every year , thousands of Indigenous Peoples from all over Brazil travel to its capital , Brasília , for the Acampamento Terra Livre ( Free Land Camp ) , the largest gathering of Indigenous Peoples in the world .
Some travel thousands of kilometers by land and water from remote corners of the Amazon to camp in front of the modernist government buildings to defend their traditions and livelihoods , exchange knowledge and demand the Brazilian government abide by its constitutional duty and protect Indigenous rights , lives and lands .
This major event would be taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many mass gatherings , it was canceled due to the COVID-19 crisis .
While the ATL ’ s organizers are heeding shelter-in-place precautions , President Jair Bolsonaro is not providing fundamental protections from the pandemic , leaving Indigenous People and vulnerable communities in a deadly situation — one exacerbated by the lack of access to healthcare and other basic needs .
While many of these groups are geographically isolated , and despite canceling their gathering , Indigenous Peoples and traditional communities in Brazil are not safe from COVID-19 .
From smallpox to influenza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of new diseases can be fatal for Indigenous communities , who are disproportionately vulnerable .
However , the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus and the World Health Organization ’ s physical distancing recommendations haven ’ t stopped illegal land grabbers , miners and loggers from continuing to invade Indigenous lands , putting entire communities at risk .
In fact , the pandemic is already impacting Indigenous Peoples in Brazil .
In a short amount of time , the virus has gone from urban centers to remote regions in the Amazon and , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ died from COVID-19 , one of them a 15-year-old boy from the Yanomami group in Roraima state .
The current reality is a somber reminder of the community ’ s tragic past .
In the 1980s , 20 percent of the Yanomami population died of diseases brought by miners and road builders in the region .
COVID-19 is not the only risk outsiders pose to the health of Indigenous Peoples and traditional communities in Brazil .
Last year , devastating images of the fires set in the Amazon to clear land caused outrage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traveled across the continent and could be seen from space — but its impact on the health of those who live in the forest are devastating .
People living close to fire hotspots have a 36 percent higher risk of being hospitalized with respiratory problems , and high rates of mercury contamination have been identified in the bodies of Indigenous Peoples , including the Yanomami , likely originating from the region ’ s gold mines .
The fight for Indigenous rights in Brazil is not new .
It is part of a history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and systemic discrimination against communities by the national government .
The COVID-19 pandemic is exposing even further how vulnerable Indigenous Peoples are with a government that denies them of their constitutional rights and brings up traumas of the past .
Since President Bolsonaro took office in January 2019 , his government has slashed funding from the National ’ s Indigenous Foundation ( FUNAI ) , has rolled out measures to reduce the rights of Indigenous People across the country , and has allowed more forest destruction .
The number of deforestation alerts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months , and the area of forest that was destroyed within Indigenous lands was 80 percent higher in 2019 than in 2018 .
Indigenous Peoples are on the frontlines and have been fighting to protect nature and the planet for centuries .
Their way of life and traditional knowledge is one of the best methods to preserve the forest .
By empowering land grabbers , miners and loggers to destroy the forest , the Brazilian government is not just gambling with the lives and livelihoods of nearly 1 million people , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — and the future of our climate .
Jair Bolsonaro must take this pandemic — one he has called “ a little flu ” — seriously and make the lives of the people , especially those most vulnerable , a priority .
COVID-19 is not only showing the world the cracks in our healthcare , economic , and political systems .
It is making us realize that those in power will still try to make a profit regardless of how vulnerable people are .
If we want a future that is just and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the planet and with ourselves must change , starting by demanding that our governments put people — and the planet — first .

Land grabbers, loggers and miners don’t self-isolate
Around this time every year, thousands of Indigenous Peoples from all over Brazil travel to its capital, Brasília, for the Acampamento Terra Livre (Free Land Camp), the largest gathering of Indigenous Peoples in the world. Some travel thousands of kilometers by land and water from remote corners of the Amazon to camp in front of the modernist government buildings to defend their traditions and livelihoods, exchange knowledge and demand the Brazilian government abide by its constitutional duty and protect Indigenous rights, lives and lands. This major event would be taking place this week — but, like many mass gatherings, it was canceled due to the COVID-19 crisis. While the ATL’s organizers are heeding shelter-in-place precautions, President Jair Bolsonaro is not providing fundamental protections from the pandemic, leaving Indigenous People and vulnerable communities in a deadly situation — one exacerbated by the lack of access to healthcare and other basic needs.
While many of these groups are geographically isolated, and despite canceling their gathering, Indigenous Peoples and traditional communities in Brazil are not safe from COVID-19. From smallpox to influenza, history is proof that the introduction of new diseases can be fatal for Indigenous communities, who are disproportionately vulnerable. However, the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus and the World Health Organization’s physical distancing recommendations haven’t stopped illegal land grabbers, miners and loggers from continuing to invade Indigenous lands, putting entire communities at risk.
In fact, the pandemic is already impacting Indigenous Peoples in Brazil. In a short amount of time, the virus has gone from urban centers to remote regions in the Amazon and, to date, ten Indigenous Peoples have died from COVID-19, one of them a 15-year-old boy from the Yanomami group in Roraima state. The current reality is a somber reminder of the community’s tragic past. In the 1980s, 20 percent of the Yanomami population died of diseases brought by miners and road builders in the region.
COVID-19 is not the only risk outsiders pose to the health of Indigenous Peoples and traditional communities in Brazil. Last year, devastating images of the fires set in the Amazon to clear land caused outrage worldwide. The smoke from the fires traveled across the continent and could be seen from space — but its impact on the health of those who live in the forest are devastating. People living close to fire hotspots have a 36 percent higher risk of being hospitalized with respiratory problems, and high rates of mercury contamination have been identified in the bodies of Indigenous Peoples, including the Yanomami, likely originating from the region’s gold mines.
The fight for Indigenous rights in Brazil is not new. It is part of a history that involves persecution, slavery, genocide, and systemic discrimination against communities by the national government. The COVID-19 pandemic is exposing even further how vulnerable Indigenous Peoples are with a government that denies them of their constitutional rights and brings up traumas of the past. Since President Bolsonaro took office in January 2019, his government has slashed funding from the National’s Indigenous Foundation (FUNAI), has rolled out measures to reduce the rights of Indigenous People across the country, and has allowed more forest destruction. The number of deforestation alerts has almost doubled in the past 8 months, and the area of forest that was destroyed within Indigenous lands was 80 percent higher in 2019 than in 2018.
Indigenous Peoples are on the frontlines and have been fighting to protect nature and the planet for centuries. Their way of life and traditional knowledge is one of the best methods to preserve the forest. By empowering land grabbers, miners and loggers to destroy the forest, the Brazilian government is not just gambling with the lives and livelihoods of nearly 1 million people, it’s endangering the health of the Amazon — and the future of our climate. Jair Bolsonaro must take this pandemic — one he has called “a little flu” — seriously and make the lives of the people, especially those most vulnerable, a priority.
COVID-19 is not only showing the world the cracks in our healthcare, economic, and political systems. It is making us realize that those in power will still try to make a profit regardless of how vulnerable people are. If we want a future that is just and safe for everyone, our relationship with the planet and with ourselves must change, starting by demanding that our governments put people — and the planet — first.


greenpeace--2020-04-28--Our public lands in Utah and beyond are under threat

Our public lands in Utah and beyond are under threat The oil and gas industry is pushing to drill on more precious public lands while the country is reeling from COVID-19 The oil and gas industry is actively pushing the Bureau of Land Management ( BLM ) to allow new drilling and fracking leases covering more than 150,000 acres of land near the Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Bears Ears National Monument outside of the area ’ s “ master leasing plan ” in Utah .
Allowing new oil and gas extraction to happen in Utah would advance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , destroy treasured public lands , and put the great Colorado River at risk for contamination .
As the price of oil continues to drop , the oil and gas industry is trying everything in their power to put their interests before COVID-19 relief .
Pushing through massive new extraction projects while the country is focused on surviving the COVID-19 crisis and unable to fight back is unconscionable .
And , with Trump being all too eager to help enable the oil industry to act this way , we need to speak up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s so important that the DOI suspend all public comment periods across the board during the COVID-19 pandemic : Since the novel coronavirus crisis began , the Bureau of Land Management ( BLM ) has put more than 80,000 acres of land up for lease sales in 6 states .
In the face of dual crises , ( the COVID-19 crisis and the climate crisis ) , the BLM is barreling in the opposite direction of what the U.S. needs .
Any use of public lands must take into account all those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities and wildlife who call those lands home must have a say in their use .
There ’ s no way the BLM — or any government entity , for that matter — can adequately consult with communities and tribes , or perform real environmental assessments while folks are trying to survive COVID-19 .
Without people like you , places like Arches National Park wouldn ’ t have protection — and we need to keep fighting .
The BLM is working towards the next round of lease sales set to go public in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companies to cover iconic desert landscapes and other national treasures with roads , well pads , trucks , pipelines , and pollution .
Demand DOI immediately suspend all current public comment periods , oil and gas lease sales , and new policy proposal for public lands and waters during the COVID-19 crisis .
The Department of the Interior exists for the benefit of the public , not oil companies Sign the petition to demand the Department of the Interior ( DOI ) stop all public land leases to the fossil fuel industry during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remind them of what their job is .
If we don ’ t act now , these lands and waters will be sold off to polluting industries , impacting ecosystems and communities for decades to come .

Our public lands in Utah and beyond are under threat
The oil and gas industry is pushing to drill on more precious public lands while the country is reeling from COVID-19
The oil and gas industry is actively pushing the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to allow new drilling and fracking leases covering more than 150,000 acres of land near the Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Bears Ears National Monument outside of the area’s “master leasing plan” in Utah.
Allowing new oil and gas extraction to happen in Utah would advance the climate crisis, threaten the national parks, destroy treasured public lands, and put the great Colorado River at risk for contamination.
To put this into perspective: the oil industry wants to drill through a piece of land greater than the size of three of Utah’s five national parks: Arches, Zion, and Bryce.
As the price of oil continues to drop, the oil and gas industry is trying everything in their power to put their interests before COVID-19 relief. Pushing through massive new extraction projects while the country is focused on surviving the COVID-19 crisis and unable to fight back is unconscionable. And, with Trump being all too eager to help enable the oil industry to act this way, we need to speak up now.
Here’s why it’s so important that the DOI suspend all public comment periods across the board during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Since the novel coronavirus crisis began, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has put more than 80,000 acres of land up for lease sales in 6 states. In the face of dual crises, (the COVID-19 crisis and the climate crisis), the BLM is barreling in the opposite direction of what the U.S. needs. Any use of public lands must take into account all those reliant upon the land, and the communities and wildlife who call those lands home must have a say in their use. There’s no way the BLM — or any government entity, for that matter — can adequately consult with communities and tribes, or perform real environmental assessments while folks are trying to survive COVID-19.
Without people like you, places like Arches National Park wouldn’t have protection — and we need to keep fighting. The BLM is working towards the next round of lease sales set to go public in September. We cannot allow oil companies to cover iconic desert landscapes and other national treasures with roads, well pads, trucks, pipelines, and pollution.
Demand DOI immediately suspend all current public comment periods, oil and gas lease sales, and new policy proposal for public lands and waters during the COVID-19 crisis.
The Department of the Interior exists for the benefit of the public, not oil companies
Sign the petition to demand the Department of the Interior (DOI) stop all public land leases to the fossil fuel industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s remind them of what their job is. If we don’t act now, these lands and waters will be sold off to polluting industries, impacting ecosystems and communities for decades to come.
Add your name


greenpeace--2020-04-28--Coloring pages for young (and young at heart) Greenpeacers

Coloring pages for young ( and young at heart ) Greenpeacers A talented Greenpeacer created these coloring pages for you @ @ @ @ @ anyone who needs an offline creativity prompt We often receive mail from school classes and @ @ @ @ @ the planet .
A talented Greenpeacer created these coloring pages , which show different ways @ @ @ @ @ and protect our planet .
Especially in these days when we are doing more screen @ @ @ @ @ break and a peaceful creative outlet for your kids — and for you !
See @ @ @ @ @ click on the image to download and print .
Once you ’ re done , @ @ @ @ @ , or Instagram and tag with # createartforearth so we can see your creations !

Coloring pages for young (and young at heart) Greenpeacers
A talented Greenpeacer created these coloring pages for you, your kids, or anyone who needs an offline creativity prompt
We often receive mail from school classes and kids who draw themselves helping the planet. A talented Greenpeacer created these coloring pages, which show different ways Greenpeace works to raise awareness and protect our planet. Especially in these days when we are doing more screen time, coloring is great break and a peaceful creative outlet for your kids — and for you!
See one you like? Just click on the image to download and print.
Once you’re done, share on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and tag with #createartforearth so we can see your creations!


greenpeace--2020-04-28--6 virtual backgrounds for your next Zoom meeting

6 virtual backgrounds for your next Zoom meeting As we adjust to a world of remote interaction , many of @ @ @ @ @ on video calls and computers .
Using virtual backgrounds to travel to a Greenpeace protest @ @ @ @ @ a great way to feel connected to our community , even when we choose to @ @ @ @ @ other .
We have some amazing images in our photo library , and we hope @ @ @ @ @ See one you like ?
Just click on the image to download for your virtual @ @ @ @ @ are the Resistance

6 virtual backgrounds for your next Zoom meeting
As we adjust to a world of remote interaction, many of us are spending more time on video calls and computers. Using virtual backgrounds to travel to a Greenpeace protest or hot air balloon is a great way to feel connected to our community, even when we choose to stay inside to protect each other. We have some amazing images in our photo library, and we hope you can enjoy these.
See one you like? Just click on the image to download for your virtual background or screensaver.
Resist the White House
Protestors Blocking a Ship Channel
The People vs Shell Oil
The Airship
Resist
We are the Resistance


greenpeace--2020-05-01--‘The Story of Plastic’ is an eye-opener on the global plastic pollution crisis

‘ The Story of Plastic ’ is an eye-opener on the global plastic pollution crisis What does an anti-oil & gas activist in Houston , Texas , have in common with a lawyer advocating for plastic bag bans in Jakarta , Indonesia , and a waste picker in Delhi , India ?
They ’ re all part of the global fight to end plastic pollution – and they ’ re all featured in a new documentary film that BIG PLASTIC doesn ’ t want you to see .
For decades , we ’ ve been told we can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sure , it ’ s cheap , lightweight , and durable , but what are the consequences of this prolific material ?
The answer is more complex – and more concerning – than just the plastic litter we see in our communities , on our beaches , and in the ocean .
When I started working on this issue five years ago , it was around the same time a heart-breaking video of a sea turtle with a straw lodged up its nose went viral .
The dominant narrative at the time was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oceans problem ( subtext : we need to focus our efforts on “ clean up ” ) , Asia as a scapegoat ( subtext : companies headquartered in the Global North can keep pushing more production ) , and simply more and better recycling as the solution ( subtext : the consumer needs to place their trash in the right bin ) .
These false narratives were meticulously crafted by the plastics industry to shirk meaningful responsibility and keep a shiny spotlight on the individual consumer .
Since its inception in 2016 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has challenged all of these notions with grassroots voices and experts from around the world who are advocating for systems change at the policy , corporate , and culture-shift levels .
These are the voices centered in The Story of Plastic .
The groundbreaking feature-length documentary takes a sweeping look at the man-made crisis of plastic pollution and its impact on the health of our planet .
Spanning three continents , the film illustrates the ongoing catastrophe of extraction – skies choked with poisonous emissions from plastic production and processing , and its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the frontlines .
So much of the untold story of plastic begins here , in the shadow of sprawling petrochemical complexes run by giants like Dow , ExxonMobil , Chevron Phillips , in Houston , Texas – one of the topmost plastic production regions in the world .
Nearly every single piece of plastic starts as fossil fuel , a startling reality that is front and center in the film .
In a time of unprecedented climate chaos , the link between plastics , climate change , and human health is intrinsically interconnected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and working-class communities unjustly facing the brunt of the pollution .
There are many revelatory moments in the film , and one of the most impactful is how The Story of Plastic uncovers the truth behind plastic pollution disposal .
Stunning footage reveals fields full of garbage , veritable mountains of trash , and rivers and seas clogged with plastic waste , much of it in South East Asia .
But what everyday media bites populating our social media feeds and nightly news broadcasts are not getting right is where plastic pollution is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Story of Plastic is an eye-opener for anyone that cares about the state of the planet as we know it , whether you ’ re completely new to the issue or already immersed in the dialogue .
The stories we hear from the frontlines pull on our heartstrings and enable a profound understanding of how deeply ingrained plastic truly is in all aspects of society .
Director Deia Schlosberg , Executive Producer Stiv Wilson , and the team behind The Story of Plastic have done a tremendous job of creating not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand the full life cycle of the material we touch more than our loved ones , and industry ’ s critical role in turning off the tap .
The tide is turning… .
Are you with us ?
Here ’ s how you can watch The Story of Plastic : BROADCAST ( US ) – Tune in on Earth Day , April 22 , at 2pm EST & PST on Discovery Channel .
BROADCAST ( International ) – The Story of Plastic will be broadcast on Discovery network affiliates in 134 countries and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent programming decisions and announcements .
Check their local Discovery Channel ’ s programming schedule .
DIGITAL – The Story of Plastic will pre-premiere on the DiscoveryGo subscription streaming service on April 15 .
It will also be available to rent on video-on-demand services like iTunes and Amazon following the April 22 television broadcast .
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY SCREENINGS – Grassroots groups , educators , and passionate individuals can HOST a free , virtual screening to share The Story of Plastic with their community .
Or , individuals can JOIN a virtual screening being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or JOIN a virtual community screening , visit storyofplastic.org community-screenings .
Shilpi is the Global Communications Lead for Break Free From Plastic , the global movement working to stop plastic pollution for good .

‘The Story of Plastic’ is an eye-opener on the global plastic pollution crisis
by Shilpi Chhotray
Call for a Plastic-Free Future
What does an anti-oil & gas activist in Houston, Texas, have in common with a lawyer advocating for plastic bag bans in Jakarta, Indonesia, and a waste picker in Delhi, India? They’re all part of the global fight to end plastic pollution – and they’re all featured in a new documentary film that BIG PLASTIC doesn’t want you to see.
For decades, we’ve been told we can’t live without the conveniences of plastic. Sure, it’s cheap, lightweight, and durable, but what are the consequences of this prolific material? The answer is more complex – and more concerning – than just the plastic litter we see in our communities, on our beaches, and in the ocean.
When I started working on this issue five years ago, it was around the same time a heart-breaking video of a sea turtle with a straw lodged up its nose went viral. The dominant narrative at the time was largely centered on plastic pollution as an oceans problem (subtext: we need to focus our efforts on “clean up”), Asia as a scapegoat (subtext: companies headquartered in the Global North can keep pushing more production), and simply more and better recycling as the solution (subtext: the consumer needs to place their trash in the right bin).
These false narratives were meticulously crafted by the plastics industry to shirk meaningful responsibility and keep a shiny spotlight on the individual consumer. Since its inception in 2016, the global Break Free From Plastic movement has challenged all of these notions with grassroots voices and experts from around the world who are advocating for systems change at the policy, corporate, and culture-shift levels. These are the voices centered in The Story of Plastic.
The groundbreaking feature-length documentary takes a sweeping look at the man-made crisis of plastic pollution and its impact on the health of our planet. Spanning three continents, the film illustrates the ongoing catastrophe of extraction – skies choked with poisonous emissions from plastic production and processing, and its impacts on the families that live on the frontlines. So much of the untold story of plastic begins here, in the shadow of sprawling petrochemical complexes run by giants like Dow, ExxonMobil, Chevron Phillips, in Houston, Texas – one of the topmost plastic production regions in the world. Nearly every single piece of plastic starts as fossil fuel, a startling reality that is front and center in the film. In a time of unprecedented climate chaos, the link between plastics, climate change, and human health is intrinsically interconnected with Black, Brown, Indigenous, and working-class communities unjustly facing the brunt of the pollution.
There are many revelatory moments in the film, and one of the most impactful is how The Story of Plastic uncovers the truth behind plastic pollution disposal. Stunning footage reveals fields full of garbage, veritable mountains of trash, and rivers and seas clogged with plastic waste, much of it in South East Asia. But what everyday media bites populating our social media feeds and nightly news broadcasts are not getting right is where plastic pollution is coming from in the first place.
The Story of Plastic is an eye-opener for anyone that cares about the state of the planet as we know it, whether you’re completely new to the issue or already immersed in the dialogue. The stories we hear from the frontlines pull on our heartstrings and enable a profound understanding of how deeply ingrained plastic truly is in all aspects of society. Director Deia Schlosberg, Executive Producer Stiv Wilson, and the team behind The Story of Plastic have done a tremendous job of creating not only an unforgettable documentary but a tool to understand the full life cycle of the material we touch more than our loved ones, and industry’s critical role in turning off the tap.
The tide is turning…. Are you with us?
Here’s how you can watch The Story of Plastic:
BROADCAST (US) – Tune in on Earth Day, April 22, at 2pm EST & PST on Discovery Channel.
BROADCAST (International) – The Story of Plastic will be broadcast on Discovery network affiliates in 134 countries and territories. Each of those affiliates makes independent programming decisions and announcements. Check their local Discovery Channel’s programming schedule.
DIGITAL – The Story of Plastic will pre-premiere on the DiscoveryGo subscription streaming service on April 15. It will also be available to rent on video-on-demand services like iTunes and Amazon following the April 22 television broadcast.
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY SCREENINGS – Grassroots groups, educators, and passionate individuals can HOST a free, virtual screening to share The Story of Plastic with their community. Or, individuals can JOIN a virtual screening being organized in their region. To HOST or JOIN a virtual community screening, visit storyofplastic.org community-screenings.
Visit storyofplastic.org for more details.
—
Shilpi is the Global Communications Lead for Break Free From Plastic, the global movement working to stop plastic pollution for good.


greenpeace--2020-05-04--Why we must pass the Essential Worker Bill of Rights

Our systems are failing workers .
We need swift and deliberate action to demand solidarity across race and class in @ @ @ @ @ we all need to survive .
Moving with the people and communities who are directly @ @ @ @ @ exploitative industries we are building the power to take down is love in action .

Our systems are failing workers. We need swift and deliberate action to demand solidarity across race and class in order to create the future we all need to survive. Moving with the people and communities who are directly impacted by the polluting and exploitative industries we are building the power to take down is love in action.


greenpeace--2020-05-05--Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women will move us closer to Climate Justice

Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women will move us closer to Climate Justice “ The abuse of women is well known in history , and tells you a lot about what is happening on our earth.
” - LaDonna Brave Bull Allard , Standing Rock Sioux Today , May 5th , is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women ( MMIW ) .
There is a disturbing legacy of violence against Indigenous women and children .
It began with the colonial conquest of Europeans coming to the “ New World ” over 500 years ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need to talk about it .
According to the US Department of Justice , Indigenous women in this country face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average .
Homicide is the third highest cause of death in Indigenous women and girls 10-24 years of age , and the fifth for women between the ages of 25-34 .
In Canada , Indigenous women are less than 5 % of the total female population , but in 2015 they comprised 25 % of all murdered women in the nation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fossil fuels are some of the largest perpetuating factors of violence , trafficking , and murder against Indigenous women .
They bring an influx of transient male workers to rural areas , often near Reservations , where they live in “ man camps.
” In North Dakota , the Bakken “ oil boom ” and resulting arrival of thousands of workers to the area brought with it a surge in rates of violent crime and aggravated assault .
The state had at least 125 cases of missing Indigenous women during this time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are likely much higher than that , because data on Indigenous women is often reported incorrectly or not collected at all .
The Sovereign Bodies Institute ’ s MMIW Database is the only comprehensive database chronicling cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in the US and Canada .
The database has recorded 529 cases in recent years throughout Montana , North Dakota , South Dakota , and Nebraska , the states which Keystone XL would traverse .
It ’ s no secret that Big Oil has a truly horrifying record of human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been allocated to combat the gruesome epidemic of violence against Indigenous women , girls , and two-spirit people .
Meanwhile , fossil fuel companies continue to expand and profit off this violence .
Fossil fuel extraction impacts more than just the economy and the environment .
It ’ s more than land , air , and water .
Our lives as Indigenous women are threatened and at risk .
We will no longer be collateral for an unjust and exploitative industry .
Environmental degradation , systemic racism , economic inequalities , and social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ root causes — capitalism and colonialism .
This is why we can not have climate justice without justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women , Girls , and Two-Spirit People .
We need you to be in solidarity with us for Indigenous people and sovereignty .
Right now , Wet ’ suwet ’ en hereditary chiefs and community members in Canada are being removed from their land to build the Coastal GasLink pipeline , despite having rights and title to their land , since time immemorial .
The Wet ’ suwet ’ en @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coastal GasLink pipeline for over five years .
The pipeline poses grave risks to the land , air , water , and climate , and to the Indigenous women living near the fracked gas pipeline route .
You can take action to protect Indigenous people and sovereignty and demand fossil fuel profiteers JPMorgan Chase and Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. defund the pipeline by signing this petition .
And on May 7th , join us for a # WetsuwetenStrong virtual rally and online communications blockade .
No more stolen sisters .
No more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the missing and murdered — and justice for Mother Earth .

Big Oil is fueling the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
“The abuse of women is well known in history, and tells you a lot about what is happening on our earth.” - LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, Standing Rock Sioux
Today, May 5th, is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).
There is a disturbing legacy of violence against Indigenous women and children. It began with the colonial conquest of Europeans coming to the “New World” over 500 years ago, it still persists today — and we need to talk about it.
According to the US Department of Justice, Indigenous women in this country face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average. Homicide is the third highest cause of death in Indigenous women and girls 10-24 years of age, and the fifth for women between the ages of 25-34. In Canada, Indigenous women are less than 5% of the total female population, but in 2015 they comprised 25% of all murdered women in the nation.
Extractive industries like mining, logging, and fossil fuels are some of the largest perpetuating factors of violence, trafficking, and murder against Indigenous women. They bring an influx of transient male workers to rural areas, often near Reservations, where they live in “man camps.” In North Dakota, the Bakken “oil boom” and resulting arrival of thousands of workers to the area brought with it a surge in rates of violent crime and aggravated assault. The state had at least 125 cases of missing Indigenous women during this time — though in reality, the numbers are likely much higher than that, because data on Indigenous women is often reported incorrectly or not collected at all.
The Sovereign Bodies Institute’s MMIW Database is the only comprehensive database chronicling cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in the US and Canada. The database recorded 529 cases in recent years throughout Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska — the states which Keystone XL would traverse — as of 2019.
It’s no secret that Big Oil has a truly horrifying record of human rights violations. Few government resources have been allocated to combat the gruesome epidemic of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people. Meanwhile, fossil fuel companies continue to expand and profit off this violence.
Fossil fuel extraction impacts more than just the economy and the environment. It’s more than land, air, and water. Our lives as Indigenous women are threatened and at risk. We will no longer be collateral for an unjust and exploitative industry.
Environmental degradation, systemic racism, economic inequalities, and social injustices are deeply connected to the same root causes — capitalism and colonialism.
This is why we cannot have climate justice without justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People.
We need you to be in solidarity with us for Indigenous people and sovereignty by acting to end the era of fossil fuels.
In the United States alone, air pollution from burning fossil fuels is linked to an estimated 350,000 deaths every year, primarily in Black, Brown, Indigenous, and working-class communities — in addition to fueling the MMIW crisis and perpetuating physical and sexual violence in Indigenous communities. Not a dime of our tax dollars should go towards corporations that poison our communities and wreck our climate. It’s time for our government to divest from systems of exploitation and extraction, like fossil fuels, and begin investing in community health and well-being. Ending fossil fuel subsidies is a vital next step.
No more stolen sisters. No more stolen relatives. We demand justice for the missing and murdered — and justice for Mother Earth.


greenpeace--2020-05-06--For Kern County Workers, May Day is Every Day

For Kern County Workers , May Day is Every Day Each year on May 1st , we gather to honor the countless workers and the labor movement whose struggle has won hard-earned victories we now take for granted , like the 8-hour work day .
But now more than ever , as we shelter-in-place and as frontline workers put their bodies on the line to keep us safe , we must also do our part to protect the rights of workers everywhere .
Last Friday , I joined Jane Fonda , Dolores Huerta , Diana Tellefson Torres , Sara Nelson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maria Castaneda , and other amazing activists and organizers to shine a light on the plight of essential workers and the need for a just transition that protects all workers and communities and leaves no one behind .
Through my work at Center on Race , Poverty & the Environment , I work with communities like those in Kern County , who are currently facing disproportionate environmental , public health , and economic harm because of a lack of worker and community protections .
Despite this legacy , farmworkers in Kern County are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , but are not receiving protections from the government or the companies that employ them .
Kern County has virtually no measures in place for farmworkers facing economic devastation .
At the same time , undocumented farmworkers have been excluded from federal programs and are even now being threatened with pay cuts to their already low income .
In addition to unprecedented economic threats , farmworkers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and are more likely to experience poor outcomes from the disease .
Kern County is also facing a second economic blow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ county is home to some of the most productive oil fields in the nation , yet is one of the poorest regions with the highest rates of unemployment .
The extraction of oil has generated billions of dollars for corporations and investors , but left the local economy weak and its workforce dependent on an unsustainable and unhealthy industry .
Due to the COVID-19 crisis and simultaneous collapse of the oil market , workers throughout the region are reeling with very few resources available to get them through this critical time .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impacted workers and residents and to lay the foundation for a more sustainable and resilient economy , the Center on Race , Poverty & the Environment , in partnership with local labor leaders , has launched the “ Kern County Community Resiliency Fund.
” More than ever , Kern County residents and workers need your support .
Please if you are able , make a gift to the Kern County Community Resiliency Fund in honor of the sacrifice of countless workers and communities whose struggle we must remember today and everyday .

For Kern County Workers, May Day is Every Day
Each year on May 1st, we gather to honor the countless workers and the labor movement whose struggle has won hard-earned victories we now take for granted, like the 8-hour work day. But now more than ever, as we shelter-in-place and as frontline workers put their bodies on the line to keep us safe, we must also do our part to protect the rights of workers everywhere.
Last Friday, I joined Jane Fonda, Dolores Huerta, Diana Tellefson Torres, Sara Nelson, Matteo Nube, Mijin Cha, Maria Castaneda, and other amazing activists and organizers to shine a light on the plight of essential workers and the need for a just transition that protects all workers and communities and leaves no one behind. Through my work at Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment, I work with communities like those in Kern County, who are currently facing disproportionate environmental, public health, and economic harm because of a lack of worker and community protections.
As the birthplace of the farmworker rights movement and the training grounds for generations of civil rights leaders who continue to fight for safe and fair working conditions across the nation, Kern County, California has a long history of political action.
Despite this legacy, farmworkers in Kern County are currently feeding the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic, but are not receiving protections from the government or the companies that employ them.
Kern County has virtually no measures in place for farmworkers facing economic devastation. At the same time, undocumented farmworkers have been excluded from federal programs and are even now being threatened with pay cuts to their already low income. In addition to unprecedented economic threats, farmworkers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and are more likely to experience poor outcomes from the disease.
Kern County is also facing a second economic blow as the oil market crashes. The county is home to some of the most productive oil fields in the nation, yet is one of the poorest regions with the highest rates of unemployment. The extraction of oil has generated billions of dollars for corporations and investors, but left the local economy weak and its workforce dependent on an unsustainable and unhealthy industry. Due to the COVID-19 crisis and simultaneous collapse of the oil market, workers throughout the region are reeling with very few resources available to get them through this critical time.
In an effort to provide immediate support for impacted workers and residents and to lay the foundation for a more sustainable and resilient economy, the Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment, in partnership with local labor leaders, has launched the “Kern County Community Resiliency Fund.”
More than ever, Kern County residents and workers need your support. Please if you are able, make a gift to the Kern County Community Resiliency Fund in honor of the sacrifice of countless workers and communities whose struggle we must remember today and everyday.


greenpeace--2020-05-07--5 corporations holding up protective gear production

It ’ s unconscionable that when Essential Workers need vital protection , multi-billion dollar corporations are lobbying against the Defense Production Act , forcing states , cities , and hospitals to compete for life-saving materials .
This May , we ’ re all doing our part for essential workers .
We ’ re staying inside to avoid getting sick and to protect our healthcare workers .
We ’ re wearing masks and keeping physical distance from service workers at the grocery store .
And , we ’ re fighting hard to make sure ALL essential employees have the protective equipment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserve .
Thank you .
If you are an essential worker , we ’ d be in bad shape without you .
THANK YOU !
!
The next bit of news is more harsh .
We ’ ve just learned that amidst the current crisis , some of the most powerful U.S. corporations — FedEx , Honeywell , Amazon , 3M and U.S. Bank — are standing by and watching as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce uses its vast influence to prevent the full use of the Defense Production Act ( DPA ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would allow our country to call on U.S. corporations to rapidly manufacture the N-95 masks , ventilators , tests , and other equipment .
The good news is that everyone here at Greenpeace is dedicated to uniting across movements and supporting workers in any way we can .
That ’ s why we ’ ve teamed up with the Public Accountability Initiative , Communications Workers of America ( CWA ) , Service Employees International Union ( SEIU ) , and more in calling on Chamber of Commerce members FedEx , Honeywell , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ step up and tell The Chamber to # ProtectEssentialWorkers .
It ’ s unconscionable that when nurses , grocery store workers , transit workers , food workers , and many more need supplies to protect themselves and their communities , the U.S. Chamber of Commerce — and the multi-billion dollar corporations it represents — is lobbying against the Defense Production Act , forcing states , cities , and hospitals to compete for life-saving materials .
And , while companies like 3M have come out in support of the DPA , it also needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole weight of the Chamber of Commerce behind the DPA right now .
This policy decision has had a devastating impact on the health of low-wage Black and Latinx workers in particular , who represent a greater portion of essential public , service , and agricultural sector jobs that put them at greater risk of exposure to COVID-19 , and account for a significantly higher portion of fatalities from the disease .
Sign the petition to the CEOS of FedEx , Honeywell , Amazon , 3M and U.S. Bank to # ProtectEssentialWorkers now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use the full power of the Defense Production Action to accelerate the delivery of needed medical supplies and personal protective equipment ( PPE ) despite urgent calls from hospitals , healthcare workers , and other essential workers .
Many of the most powerful corporations that lead the Chamber have direct financial interests in how the COVID-19 response plays out .
The companies , including medical manufacturers like 3M and Honeywell , as well as big banks and major employers of frontline workers – have the power and responsibility to reverse the Chamber ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and profit over public health and well-being .

5 corporations holding up protective gear production
It’s unconscionable that when Essential Workers need vital protection, multi-billion dollar corporations are lobbying against the Defense Production Act, forcing states, cities, and hospitals to compete for life-saving materials.
This May, we’re all doing our part for essential workers. We’re staying inside to avoid getting sick and to protect our healthcare workers. We’re wearing masks and keeping physical distance from service workers at the grocery store. And, we’re fighting hard to make sure ALL essential employees have the protective equipment and paid sick leave they need and deserve. Thank you.
If you are an essential worker, we’d be in bad shape without you. THANK YOU!!
The next bit of news is more harsh.
We’ve just learned that amidst the current crisis, some of the most powerful U.S. corporations — FedEx, Honeywell, Amazon, 3M and U.S. Bank — are standing by and watching as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce uses its vast influence to prevent the full use of the Defense Production Act (DPA). The DPA is a vital tool that would allow our country to call on U.S. corporations to rapidly manufacture the N-95 masks, ventilators, tests, and other equipment.
If these massive corporations show their full support for the DPA, it will expose Trump’s failure in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic — and push the Chamber to step back.
The good news is that everyone here at Greenpeace is dedicated to uniting across movements and supporting workers in any way we can.
That’s why we’ve teamed up with the Public Accountability Initiative, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and more in calling on Chamber of Commerce members FedEx, Honeywell, Amazon, 3M and U.S. Bank to step up and tell The Chamber to #ProtectEssentialWorkers.
It’s unconscionable that when nurses, grocery store workers, transit workers, food workers, and many more need supplies to protect themselves and their communities, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce — and the multi-billion dollar corporations it represents — is lobbying against the Defense Production Act, forcing states, cities, and hospitals to compete for life-saving materials. And, while companies like 3M have come out in support of the DPA, it also needs to use its influence to get the whole weight of the Chamber of Commerce behind the DPA right now.
This policy decision has had a devastating impact on the health of low-wage Black and Latinx workers in particular, who represent a greater portion of essential public, service, and agricultural sector jobs that put them at greater risk of exposure to COVID-19, and account for a significantly higher portion of fatalities from the disease.
Sign the petition to the CEOS of FedEx, Honeywell, Amazon, 3M and U.S. Bank to #ProtectEssentialWorkers now.
The Trump Administration has refused to use the full power of the Defense Production Action to accelerate the delivery of needed medical supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) despite urgent calls from hospitals, healthcare workers, and other essential workers.
Many of the most powerful corporations that lead the Chamber have direct financial interests in how the COVID-19 response plays out. The companies, including medical manufacturers like 3M and Honeywell, as well as big banks and major employers of frontline workers – have the power and responsibility to reverse the Chamber’s lobbying agenda that prioritizes corporate control and profit over public health and well-being.
Sign the petition


greenpeace--2020-05-14--How Coronavirus has changed our campaigning

How Coronavirus has changed our campaigning Our core strategies have gone into overdrive , and we need your help to investigate polluters , expose the corporate and political elites , and mobilize Greenpeacers like you to stop them As the coronavirus pandemic has escalated over the last few weeks and months , we have emailed you a lot .
Before the crisis , we aimed to reach out with two or three emails a week with the top opportunities to take action on the campaigns you care about ; more recently , it ’ s been a flurry of rapid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calls to action .
I want to say thank you for being involved .
I also thought it might be helpful to share some of our strategy during this unprecedented time .
You ’ re hearing from us more frequently — here ’ s why : Preventing harm and fighting for a just recovery As the pandemic response got underway , cynical actors decided to take advantage of the crisis as cover to get the things that they ’ ve always wanted .
The Environmental Protection Agency rolled back restrictions on pollution controls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to exploit the pandemic by scaring people about the safety risk of reusable bags in transmitting disease .
When trillions in taxpayer dollars became available , the fossil fuel industry scrambled to try to get a piece of the pie .
Clearly , we ’ ve had to push our core strategies into overdrive : • investigate polluters and the politicians that enable them • expose the corporate and political elites who hope their profiteering goes unnoticed • mobilize Greenpeacers like you to stop them In fact , you ’ ve made thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of messages to Congress demanding legislation to oversee relief efforts , to stop oil corporations from raiding relief funds paid for with your taxes , to support our friends in the labor movement with an Essential Workers Bill of Rights , and challenging the plastics industry ’ s status quo of rampant plastic pollution by rallying support for the “ Break Free from Plastic Pollution Act ” that supports the vision of a just and circular system built on reusables for everyone .
We believe that any recovery must put people and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re working in DC to make sure that the next stimulus bill does exactly that — including saving the Postal Service and expanding vote-by-mail , early voting , and other measures to protect democracy .
You can read more about that here ( and sign on if you haven ’ t already ) .
We also are fighting hard to make sure that anti-protest laws don ’ t get rushed through at the state level under cover of the pandemic .
This is one of those moments where everything will change Congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address the crisis .
It ’ s messy , and we need to stay vigilant on multiple fronts .
But right now , a vocal and disruptive progressive movement can and must ensure nobody is left behind .
If we do , we ’ ll emerge from this crisis so much closer to a green and just economy for all .
Just because we ’ re in the middle of a crisis , we can ’ t stop our other work .
Bad actors continue their attacks on people and planet — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As we approach the end of Trump ’ s first term , his administration is trying to push through multiple regulatory rollbacks now to avoid the possibility of them being undone by a new administration .
Two major issues of concern : one , the administration ’ s new mercury rules , which threaten the lives and health of hundreds of thousands and would roll back regulations on toxic mercury pollution from fossil fuel powered electricity plants .
Two , Trump ’ s administration has also rolled back the Obama-era fuel efficiency standards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — a move guaranteed to exacerbate the climate crisis , increase air pollution , and cost billions in added fuel costs for the general public .
Outside of the U.S. , the world ’ s oceans and forests remain critically threatened .
Our work for a comprehensive ocean sanctuaries treaty at the United Nations , although delayed by the virus , remains as important as ever to ensure a recovery for ocean ecosystems .
Our solidarity with Indigenous land defenders , in places like Brazil , Indonesia and Canada , remains more important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging aspects of our work has been moving major events and fundraising to the online space .
In March , we realized that face-to-face fundraising was no longer possible in this environment , and the gut-wrenching decision was made to halt our canvassing operation , resulting in the furlough of 172 staff .
Our canvassers are the heart and soul of our local offices , carrying the message and mission to thousands of people every single day across the country and activating communities at the local level .
Their absence leaves a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loss of donations from their work has deeply impacted our finances .
As we work to adjust , you ’ re seeing more fundraising emails from us as we ask supporters to donate online in order to fund mission-critical campaigns .
With your help , we can do this .
A group of generous benefactors has even agreed to match your gifts dollar-for-dollar up to $ 260,000 before May 31 .
We ’ re incredibly grateful to everyone who chips in here to keep our work strong .
We ’ re also moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of creating community , bringing people together , and taking meaningful action for the planet .
We joined thousands in a massive Earth Day Livestream , and activist extraordinaire Jane Fonda has continued her protest work with Fire Drill Fridays , now online — and you can join the next one here .
I hope that this look at our strategy during this tumultuous time is helpful .
We are adapting , changing , emailing you a lot more , and most of all , continuing and expanding our critical campaigning .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and solidarity will add up .
Every act exposes Trump and billionaire polluters , diminishes their power , and moves us towards a breaking point where we can win a green and just recovery and a country led by people , not polluters .
I truly can ’ t thank you enough for all you ’ ve done to stay involved , stay active , and fight the good fight alongside us right now .
Check out our COVID-19 hub for more info and insights on how we ’ re responding .

How Coronavirus has changed our campaigning
Our core strategies have gone into overdrive, and we need your help to investigate polluters, expose the corporate and political elites, and mobilize Greenpeacers like you to stop them
As the coronavirus pandemic has escalated over the last few weeks and months, we have emailed you a lot. Before the crisis, we aimed to reach out with two or three emails a week with the top opportunities to take action on the campaigns you care about; more recently, it’s been a flurry of rapid response, breaking news, and urgent calls to action. I want to say thank you for being involved. I also thought it might be helpful to share some of our strategy during this unprecedented time. You’re hearing from us more frequently — here’s why:
Preventing harm and fighting for a just recovery
As the pandemic response got underway, cynical actors decided to take advantage of the crisis as cover to get the things that they’ve always wanted. The Environmental Protection Agency rolled back restrictions on pollution controls, and the plastics industry jumped in to exploit the pandemic by scaring people about the safety risk of reusable bags in transmitting disease. When trillions in taxpayer dollars became available, the fossil fuel industry scrambled to try to get a piece of the pie.
Clearly, we’ve had to push our core strategies into overdrive:
In fact, you’ve made thousands of phone calls and sent hundreds of thousands of messages to Congress demanding legislation to oversee relief efforts, to stop oil corporations from raiding relief funds paid for with your taxes, to support our friends in the labor movement with an Essential Workers Bill of Rights, and challenging the plastics industry’s status quo of rampant plastic pollution by rallying support for the “Break Free from Plastic Pollution Act” that supports the vision of a just and circular system built on reusables for everyone.
I promise you, every act of resistance and solidarity will add up. Every act exposes Trump and billionaire polluters, diminishes their power, and moves us towards a breaking point where we can win a green and just recovery and a country led by people, not polluters.
We believe that any recovery must put people and justice first, which is why we’re working in DC to make sure that the next stimulus bill does exactly that — including saving the Postal Service and expanding vote-by-mail, early voting, and other measures to protect democracy. You can read more about that here (and sign on if you haven’t already). We also are fighting hard to make sure that anti-protest laws don’t get rushed through at the state level under cover of the pandemic.
This is one of those moments where everything will change
Congress has and will continue to pass laws to address the crisis. It’s messy, and we need to stay vigilant on multiple fronts. But right now, a vocal and disruptive progressive movement can and must ensure nobody is left behind. If we do, we’ll emerge from this crisis so much closer to a green and just economy for all.
Continuing our core mission
Just because we’re in the middle of a crisis, we can’t stop our other work. Bad actors continue their attacks on people and planet — most notably, the Trump Administration. As we approach the end of Trump’s first term, his administration is trying to push through multiple regulatory rollbacks now to avoid the possibility of them being undone by a new administration. Two major issues of concern: one, the administration’s new mercury rules, which threaten the lives and health of hundreds of thousands and would roll back regulations on toxic mercury pollution from fossil fuel powered electricity plants. Two, Trump’s administration has also rolled back the Obama-era fuel efficiency standards for cars, trucks, and SUVs — a move guaranteed to exacerbate the climate crisis, increase air pollution, and cost billions in added fuel costs for the general public.
Outside of the U.S., the world’s oceans and forests remain critically threatened. Our work for a comprehensive ocean sanctuaries treaty at the United Nations, although delayed by the virus, remains as important as ever to ensure a recovery for ocean ecosystems. Our solidarity with Indigenous land defenders, in places like Brazil, Indonesia and Canada, remains more important than ever.
Moving Online
One of the most challenging aspects of our work has been moving major events and fundraising to the online space. In March, we realized that face-to-face fundraising was no longer possible in this environment, and the gut-wrenching decision was made to halt our canvassing operation, resulting in the furlough of 172 staff. Our canvassers are the heart and soul of our local offices, carrying the message and mission to thousands of people every single day across the country and activating communities at the local level.
Their absence leaves a big hole in our community, and the loss of donations from their work has deeply impacted our finances. As we work to adjust, you’re seeing more fundraising emails from us as we ask supporters to donate online in order to fund mission-critical campaigns. With your help, we can do this. A group of generous benefactors has even agreed to match your gifts dollar-for-dollar up to $260,000 before May 31. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who chips in here to keep our work strong.
chip in now
We’re also moving major events online — with a goal of creating community, bringing people together, and taking meaningful action for the planet. We joined thousands in a massive Earth Day Livestream, and activist extraordinaire Jane Fonda has continued her protest work with Fire Drill Fridays, now online — and you can join the next one here.
I hope that this look at our strategy during this tumultuous time is helpful. We are adapting, changing, emailing you a lot more, and most of all, continuing and expanding our critical campaigning. I promise you, every act of resistance and solidarity will add up. Every act exposes Trump and billionaire polluters, diminishes their power, and moves us towards a breaking point where we can win a green and just recovery and a country led by people, not polluters.
I truly can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done to stay involved, stay active, and fight the good fight alongside us right now.
Check out our COVID-19 hub for more info and insights on how we’re responding.


greenpeace--2020-05-14--How well do you know these endangered species?

How well do you know these endangered species ?
How much do you know about our incredible natural world ?
Here are 12 amazing facts about our endangered animal friends — from brainy and musical whales , to the highly evolved polar bear , to the odd quirks of tigers and orangutans .
It ’ s true .
Polar bears actually have black skin ( take a look at their noses ) that ’ s covered in transparent , pigment-free hair .
Each individual polar bear hair scatters and reflects visible light which makes polar bears appear white , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s a bit hard to fathom , and doesn ’ t sound especially comfortable , but sperm whales sleep vertically , dangling tail downwards .
In fact whales ‘ sleep ’ by switching only half of their brain off at a time ( don ’ t try this at home ) and this position makes it easiest for a dozing whale to breath out of its blowhole .
Whether sea turtle hatchlings are born male or female depends on the temperature of where they happen to be located in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than the “ pivotal temperature ” ( 28 – 29 degrees Celsius ) , the turtle is born female , if it ’ s colder , male .
4 .
Tigers have the brightest eyes of any animal The eye of the tiger is backlit by a membrane that reflects light through the retina .
Thanks to this , tigers have the brightest – and , in my opinion , the most beautiful – eyes in nature .
There are two kinds of ticklish .
There ’ s the gentle kind that feels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you laugh uncontrollably .
Many animals are the first kind of ticklish – it ’ s an evolutionary behaviour that helps them ward off potentially dangerous animals and insects .
But only very few animals are the second kind of ticklish .
In fact , it seems to be just us humans and our very closest primate relatives , including the orangutans .
Obvious fact alert : most of the fresh water in the Arctic is frozen .
For you and I that might cause some problems .
But not for polar bears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they no longer need to drink water .
They can get all the H2O they need from the chemical reaction that breaks down fat .
7 .
Sperm whales have the biggest brain of any animal – ever Not only is it the biggest animal with teeth , it ’ s also got the smarts .
The world ’ s largest true predator has a brain over 5 times as heavy as ours .
8 .
Sea turtles talk to each other before they hatch People used to think that turtles didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that ’ s just not true .
In fact , sea turtles talk to each other before they ’ ve even hatched .
While still in their individual eggs , turtles communicate with each other by making sounds .
Researchers believe they do this in order to coordinate their hatching times ( now , if that ’ s not adorable ) .
Not only do they love durian , the smelliest fruit I ’ ve ever come across , but they also happen to enjoy the taste of soap which , surprisingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Though in many ways we ’ re very similar to orangutans , I wouldn ’ t suggest trying either at home… The photo says it all really 🙂 Humpback whales love to sing .
But they don ’ t just trot out the same old tune .
Over time the songs change , and evolve , and if they like a bit of something they hear another whale singing – rather than just have that earworm stuck in their head – they will incorporate it into their own repertoire .
Then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will spread to neighbouring whales and then populations farther and farther across the sea – a bit like a karaoke Mexican wave !
There ’ s an interesting fact for you – use it wisely .
You just can ’ t imagine a world without these amazing animals can you ?
But they ’ re under serious threat .
Their habitats are being destroyed by climate change , polluting corporations and greedy palm oil companies .
So our movement is fighting back .
Will you help us get the word out ?
Share @ @ @ @ @ @

How well do you know these endangered species?
Here are 12 amazing facts about endangered animals — from brainy and musical whales, to the highly evolved polar bear, to the odd quirks of tigers and orangutans.
1. Polar bears aren’t really white
It’s true. Polar bears actually have black skin (take a look at their noses) that’s covered in transparent, pigment-free hair. Each individual polar bear hair scatters and reflects visible light which makes polar bears appear white, even though they’re not – sneaky.
2. Sperm whales sleep standing up
It’s a bit hard to fathom, and doesn’t sound especially comfortable, but sperm whales sleep vertically, dangling tail downwards. In fact whales ‘sleep’ by switching only half of their brain off at a time (don’t try this at home) and this position makes it easiest for a dozing whale to breath out of its blowhole.
3. A turtle’s sex is determined by temperature
Whether sea turtle hatchlings are born male or female depends on the temperature of where they happen to be located in the nest. If it’s warmer than the “pivotal temperature” (28 – 29 degrees Celsius), the turtle is born female, if it’s colder, male.
4. Tigers have the brightest eyes of any animal
The eye of the tiger is backlit by a membrane that reflects light through the retina. Thanks to this, tigers have the brightest – and, in my opinion, the most beautiful – eyes in nature.
5. Orangutans are ticklish
There are two kinds of ticklish. There’s the gentle kind that feels itchy, and the kind that makes you laugh uncontrollably. Many animals are the first kind of ticklish – it’s an evolutionary behavior that helps them ward off potentially dangerous animals and insects. But only very few animals are the second kind of ticklish. In fact, it seems to be just us humans and our very closest primate relatives, including the orangutans.
6. Polar bears don’t need to drink water
Obvious fact alert: most of the fresh water in the Arctic is frozen. For you and I that might cause some problems. But not for polar bears – they’ve evolved so that they no longer need to drink water. They can get all the H2O they need from the chemical reaction that breaks down fat.
7. Sperm whales have the biggest brain of any animal, ever
Not only is it the biggest animal with teeth, it’s also got the smarts. The world’s largest true predator has a brain over 5 times as heavy as ours.
8. Sea turtles talk to each other before they hatch
People used to think that turtles didn’t make noises. But now we know that’s just not true. In fact, sea turtles talk to each other before they’ve even hatched. While still in their individual eggs, turtles communicate with each other by making sounds. Researchers believe they do this in order to coordinate their hatching times (now, if that’s not adorable).
9. Orangutans love the taste of soap
Not only do they love durian, the smelliest fruit I’ve ever come across, but they also happen to enjoy the taste of soap which, surprisingly, doesn’t upset their stomachs. Though in many ways we’re very similar to orangutans, I wouldn’t suggest trying either at home…
10. Polar bears have blue tongues
The photo says it all really 🙂
11. Humpback whales follow & create musical trends
Humpback whales love to sing. But they don’t just trot out the same old tune. Over time the songs change, and evolve, and if they like a bit of something they hear another whale singing – rather than just have that earworm stuck in their head – they will incorporate it into their own repertoire. If it’s catchy enough, it will spread to neighboring whales and then to populations farther and farther across the sea!
12. Tiger urine smells like buttered popcorn
There’s an interesting fact for you – use it wisely.
You just can’t imagine a world without these amazing animals can you?
But they’re under serious threat. Their habitats are being destroyed by climate change, polluting corporations and greedy palm oil companies.
Our movement is fighting back. Will you help us get the word out? Share these 12 amazing facts about endangered species now!