#including human rights. including human lives. including our planet having a climate that supports life.

[healingheartdogs]

A lot of liberals use the words "liberal" and "leftist" interchangeably and then act like the world is ending and lose their shit when an actual leftist says totally normal not even radical actual leftist things because they don't realize that liberals are actually right wing, including themselves.

[wilwheaton]

The GOP wonders why young people (and others) don't want to vote for them. Some wise scribe assembled this list.

1.) Your Reagan-era “trickle-down economics” strategy of tax breaks for billionaires that you continue to employ to this day has widened the gap between rich and poor so much that most of them will never be able to own a home, much less earn a living wage.

2.) You refuse to increase the federal minimum wage, which is still $7.25 an hour (since 2009). Even if it had just kept up with inflation, it would be $27 now. You’re forcing people of all ages but especially young people to work multiple jobs just to afford basic necessities.

3.) You fundamentally oppose and want to kill democracy; have done everything in your power to restrict access to the ballot box, particularly in areas with demographics that tend to vote Democratic (like young people and POC). You staged a fucking coup the last time you lost.

4.) You have abused your disproportionate senate control over the last three decades to pack the courts with religious extremists and idealogues, including SCOTUS—which has rolled back rights for women in ways that do nothing but kill more women and children and expand poverty.

5.) You refuse to enact common sense gun control laws to curb mass shootings like universal background checks and banning assault weapons; subjecting their entire generation to school shootings and drills that are traumatizing in and of themselves. You are owned by the NRA.

6.) You are unequivocally against combatting climate change to the extent that it’s as if you’ve made it your personal mission to ensure they inherit a planet that is beyond the point of no return in terms of remaining habitable for the human race beyond the next few generations.

7.) You oppose all programs that provide assistance to those who need it most. Your governors refused to expand Medicaid even during A PANDEMIC. You are against free school lunches, despite it being the only meal that millions of children can count on to actually receive each day

8.) You are banning books, defunding libraries, barring subject matter, and whitewashing history even more in a fascistic attempt to keep them ignorant of the systemic racism that this nation was literally founded upon and continues to this day in every action your party takes.

9.) You oppose universal healthcare and are still trying to repeal the ACA and rip healthcare from tens of millions of Americans and replace it with nothing. You are against lowering the cost of insulin and prescription drugs that millions need simply to LIVE/FUNCTION in society.

10.) You embrace white nationalists, Neo-Nazis, and other groups that are defined by their intractable racism, xenophobia, bigotry, and intolerance. You conspired with these groups on January 6th to try to overthrow the U.S. government via domestic terrorism that KILLED PEOPLE.

11.) You oppose every bill aimed at making life better for our nation’s youth; from education to extracurricular and financial/nutritional assistance programs. You say you want to “protect the children” while you elect/nominate pedophiles and attack trans youth and drag queens.

12.) You pretend to be offended by “anti-semitism” while literally supporting, electing, and speaking at events organized by Nazis. You pretend to hate “cancel culture” despite the fact that you invented it and it’s basically all you do.

13.) Every word you utter is a lie. You are the party of treason, hypocrisy, crime, and authoritarianism. You want to entrench rule by your aging minority because you know that you have nothing to offer young voters and they will never support you for all these reasons and more.

14.) You’re so hostile to even the notion of helping us overcome the mountain of debt that millions of us are forced to take on just to pay for our post K-12 education that you are suing to try to prevent a small fraction of us from getting even $10,000 in loan forgiveness.

15.) You opened the floodgates of money into politics via Citizens United; allowing our entire system of government to become a cesspool of corruption, crime, and greed. You are supposed to represent the American people whose taxes pay your salary but instead cater to rich donors.

16.) You respond to elected representatives standing in solidarity with their constituents to protest the ONGOING SLAUGHTER of children in schools via shootings by EXPELLING THEM FROM OFFICE & respond to your lack of popularity among young people by trying to raise the voting age.

17.) You impeach Democratic presidents over lying about a BJ but refuse to impeach (then vote twice to acquit) a guy whose entire “administration” was an international crime syndicate being run out of the WH who incited an insurrection to have you killed.

18.) You steal Supreme Court seats from democrats to prevent the only black POTUS we’ve ever had from appointing one and invent fake precedents that you later ignore all to take fundamental rights from Americans; and even your “legitimate” appointments consist of people like THIS (sub-thread refuting CJ Roberts criticisms of people attacking SCOTUS' legitimacy).

19.) You support mass incarceration even for innocuous offenses or execution by cop for POC while doing nothing but protect rich white criminals who engage in such things as tax fraud, money laundering, sex trafficking, rape/sexual assault, falsifying business records, etc.

20.) You are the reason we can’t pass:—Universal background checks—An assault weapons ban—The ‘For the People/Freedom to vote’ Act or John Lewis Voting Rights Act—The ERA & Equality Act—The Climate Action Now Act—The (Stopping) Violence Against Women Act—SCOTUS expansion.

21.) You do not seek office to govern, represent, or serve the American people. You seek power solely for its own sake so you can impose your narrow-minded puritanical will on others at the expense of their most fundamental rights and freedoms like voting and bodily autonomy.

22.) Ok, last one. You are trying to eliminate social security and Medicare that tens of millions of our parents rely on and paid into their entire lives. And you did everything to maximize preventable deaths from COVID leaving millions of us in mourning.

Source: https://imgur.com/gallery/e8DBZLH

[marveltrumpshate]

Current Events

This year continued to be A Lot and we decided to ensure that there were charities that directly addressed current events. Folded into this post are groups that work for aid targeting every natural disaster as well as man-made ones, climate change, rights under attack, and the ongoing pandemic. If you're looking for an organization that directly addresses any of those, this is your spotlight post.

For more information on donation methods and accepted currencies, please refer to our list of organizations page.

Center for Reproductive Rights

The Center for Reproductive Rights is the only global legal advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring reproductive rights are protected in law as fundamental human rights for the dignity, equality, health, and well-being of every person. With local partners across five continents, they have secured legal victories before national courts, UN Committees, and regional human rights bodies on issues such as access to life-saving obstetrics care, contraception, maternal health, and safe abortion services and the prevention of forced sterilization and child marriage.

Clean Air Task Force

As we've seen for a long time now but especially this year with constant natural disasters and alarming news from all over the world, climate change is real and we need to do something about it. Over the past 25 years, CATF, a group of climate and energy experts who think outside the box to solve the climate crisis, has pushed for technology innovations, legal advocacy, research, and policy changes. Their goal is to achieve a zero-emissions, high-energy planet at an affordable cost.

Electronic Freedom Foundation

The leading nonprofit defending civil liberties in digital spaces, EFF champions user privacy, free expression, and innovation through impact litigation, policy analysis, grassroots activism, and technology development. They fight against online censorship and illegal surveillance, advocate for net neutrality and data protection, and more so that technology supports freedom, justice, and innovation for everyone. 

Innocence Project

The mission of the Innocence Project is deceptively simple: exonerate those who have been wrongly convicted through the use of DNA evidence. The reality of it involves much broader strokes covering support for exonerees rebuilding their lives post-release and criminal justice reform through targeted litigation and the implementation of laws to prevent wrongful conviction. They strive to restore freedom for the innocent, transform the systems responsible for unjust incarceration, and advance the freedom movement.

International Rescue Committee 

Founded in 1933, the IRC is a long-standing trusted partner in supporting those whose lives have been upended by sudden violence, political or natural. They are no stranger to areas of disaster and conflict throughout the world as they currently work in 40 countries. The IRC provides emergency aid and long-term assistance, including refugee settlement, and focuses on health, education, economic well-being, empowerment, and safety. 

Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

Odds are you’ve heard of MSF, the global organization that sends trained medical professionals to the places they’re needed most. MSF has been working globally for over 50 years, providing medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare—no matter what. They’re guided by principles of independence, impartiality, and neutrality to global political policies or movements. 

Oceana

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization for ocean conservation. To protect and restore the world’s oceans, they campaign globally for policies that stop overfishing and plastic pollution, protect habitats and the climate, and increase biodiversity. Oceana conducts its own scientific research and expeditions, is engaged in grassroots activism, and is involved in recommending and supporting policies and litigation.

Palestine Children's Relief Fund

PCRF delivers crucial, life-saving medical relief and humanitarian aid to children and families in Palestine and throughout the Middle East, especially those in Gaza and Lebanon's refugee camps. In addition to providing free medical care, equipment, medicine, and treatment, PCRF also supplies clean water, hygiene kits, food, and other necessities. Their programs include mental health and amputee projects, support for infrastructure plans such as hospital expansions to improve healthcare access, and sponsorships for children who are disabled, orphaned, or in need of medical treatment or surgery.

Partners In Health

Founded by Paul Farmer when he was still in medical school, PIH is committed to bringing exceptional health care to every corner of the planet. PIH also works to provide access to food, transportation, housing, and other key components of healing to the most vulnerable. Their work started in Haiti but has expanded rapidly across the globe. 

Transgender Law Center

Transgender Law Center, the largest trans-specific and trans-led organization in the U.S., changes law, policy, and attitudes so that all people can live safely and authentically and free from discrimination regardless of their gender identity or expression. Through its precedent-setting litigation victories and community-driven programs, TLC protects the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming people in areas spanning employment, prison conditions, education, immigration, healthcare, and more.

Undue Medical Debt

Over 100 million Americans (one in three) are struggling with paying off medical bills. COVID has only added to those numbers, putting people under significant financial burden and emotional distress. This organization buys up medical debt in order to forgive it with no tax consequences to donors or recipients. Donate just $1 and you wipe out $100 of someone's medical debt, $100 to get rid of $10,000 in debt, and so on—the ripple effect is real. Through their work, Undue Medical Debt not only helps with financial relief but also brings attention to the need for a more compassionate, transparent, equitable, and affordable healthcare system.

Waterkeeper Alliance

In 1966, this movement was started by a band of blue-collar fishermen pushing back against industrial polluters, and their tough spirit remains intact through the 300+ local community groups that make up the global Waterkeeper Alliance today. The Alliance works to ensure, preserve, and protect clean and abundant water for all people and creatures. Their programs are diverse, spanning from patrolling waterways against polluters to advocating for environmental laws in courtrooms and town halls and educating in classrooms.

World Central Kitchen

Started by Chef José Andrés, WCK makes sure that people are fed in the wake of humanitarian, climate, and community crises. Their programs advance human and environmental health, offer access to professional culinary training, create jobs, and improve food security. WCK also teaches food safety and cooking classes to native people who live where disasters have occurred, so they may open restaurants and support the local economy more permanently. You can follow where WCK is currently on the ground assisting and feeding people affected by natural and man-made crises here.

[dailyanarchistposts]

In April 1984, during the advent of Spring and John Muir’s birthday, George Sessions and Arne Næss summarized fifteen years of thinking on the principles of deep ecology while camping in Death Valley, California. In this great and special place, they articulated these principles in a literal, somewhat neutral way, hoping that they would be understood and accepted by persons coming from different philosophical and religious positions.

Readers are encouraged to elaborate their own versions of deep ecology, clarify key concepts and think through the consequences of acting from these principles.

Basic Principles

The well-being and flourishing of human and nonhuman Life on Earth have value in themselves (synonyms: intrinsic value, inherent value). These values are independent of the usefulness of the non-human world for human purposes. This formulation refers to the biosphere, or more accurately, to the ecosphere as a whole. This includes individuals, species, populations, habitat, as well as human and nonhuman cultures. From our current knowledge of all-pervasive intimate relationships, this implies a fundamental deep concern and respect. Ecological processes of the planet should, on the whole, remain intact. “The world environment should remain ‘natural’” (Gary Snyder). The term “life” is used here in a more comprehensive nontechnical way to refer also to what biologists classify as “nonliving”; rivers (watersheds), landscapes, ecosystems. For supporters of deep ecology, slogans such as “Let the river live” illustrate this broader usage so common in most cultures. Inherent value as used in (1) is common in deep ecology literature (“The presence of inherent value in a natural object is independent of any awareness, interest, or appreciation of it by a conscious being.”) [1]

Richness and diversity of life forms contribute to the realization of these values and are also values in themselves. More technically, this is a formulation concerning diversity and complexity. From an ecological standpoint, complexity and symbiosis are conditions for maximizing diversity. So-called simple, lower, or primitive species of plants and animals contribute essentially to the richness and diversity of life. They have value in themselves and are not merely steps toward the so-called higher or rational life forms. The second principle presupposes that life itself, as a process over evolutionary time, implies an increase of diversity and richness. The refusal to acknowledge that some life forms have greater or lesser intrinsic value than others (see points 1 and 2) runs counter to the formulations of some ecological philosophers and New Age writers. Complexity, as referred to here, is different from complication. Urban life may be more complicated than life in a natural setting without being more complex in the sense of multifaceted quality.

Humans have no right to reduce this richness and diversity except to satisfy vital needs. The term “vital need” is left deliberately vague to allow for considerable latitude in judgment. Differences in climate and related factors, together with differences in the structures of societies as they now exist, need to be considered (for some Eskimos, snowmobiles are necessary today to satisfy vital needs). People in the materially richest countries cannot be expected to reduce their excessive interference with the nonhuman world to a moderate level overnight. The stabilization and reduction of the human population will take time. Interim strategies need to be developed. But this in no way excuses the present complacency — the extreme seriousness of our current situation must first be realized. But the longer we wait the more drastic will be the measures needed. Until deep changes are made, substantial decreases in richness and diversity are liable to occur: the rate of extinction of species will be ten to one hundred times greater than any other period of earth history.

The flourishing of human life and cultures is compatible with a substantial decrease of the human population. The flourishing of nonhuman life requires such a decrease. The United Nations Fund for Population Activities in their State of World Population Report (1984) said that high human population growth rates (over 2.0 percent annum) in many developing countries “were diminishing the quality of life for many millions of people.” During the decade 1974–1984, the world population grew by nearly 800 million — more than the size of India. “And we will be adding about one Bangladesh (population 93 million) per annum between now and the year 2000.” The report noted that “The growth rate of the human population has declined for the first time in human history. But at the same time, the number of people being added to the human population is bigger than at any time in history because the population base is larger.” Most of the nations in the developing world (including India and China) have as their official government policy the goal of reducing the rate of human population increase, but there are debates over the types of measures to take (contraception, abortion, etc.) consistent with human rights and feasibility. The report concludes that if all governments set specific population targets as public policy to help alleviate poverty and advance the quality of life, the current situation could be improved. As many ecologists have pointed out, it is also absolutely crucial to curb population growth in the so-called developed (i.e., overdeveloped) industrial societies. Given the tremendous rate of consumption and waste production of individuals in these societies, they represent a much greater threat and impact on the biosphere per capita than individuals in Second and Third World countries.

Present human interference with the nonhuman world is excessive, and the situation is rapidly worsening. This formulation is mild. For a realistic assessment of the situation, see the unabbreviated version of the I.U.C.N.’s World Conservation Strategy. There are other works to be highly recommended, such as Gerald Barney’s Global 2000 Report to the President of the United States. The slogan of “noninterference” does not imply that humans should not modify some ecosystems as do other species. Humans have modified the earth and will probably continue to do so. At issue is the nature and extent of such interference. The fight to preserve and extend areas of wilderness or near-wilderness should continue and should focus on the general ecological functions of these areas (one such function: large wilderness areas are required in the biosphere to allow for continued evolutionary speciation of animals and plants). Most present designated wilderness areas and game preserves are not large enough to allow for such speciation.

[6] Policies must therefore be changed. These policies affect basic economic, technological, and ideological structures. The resulting state of affairs will be deeply different from the present. Economic growth as conceived and implemented today by the industrial states is incompatible with (1)-(5). There is only a faint resemblance between ideal sustainable forms of economic growth and present policies of the industrial societies. And “sustainable” still means “sustainable in relation to humans.” Present ideology tends to value things because they are scarce and because they have a commodity value. There is prestige in vast consumption and waste (to mention only several relevant factors). Whereas “self-determination,” “local community,” and “think globally, act locally,” will remain key terms in the ecology of human societies, nevertheless the implementation of deep changes requires increasingly global action — action across borders. Governments in Third World countries (with the exception of Costa Rica and a few others) are uninterested in deep ecological issues. When the governments of industrial societies try to promote ecological measures through Third World governments, practically nothing is accomplished (e.g., with problems of desertification). Given this situation, support for global action through nongovernmental international organizations becomes increasingly important. Many of these organizations are able to act globally “from grassroots to grassroots,” thus avoiding negative governmental interference. Cultural diversity today requires advanced technology, that is, techniques that advance the basic goals of each culture. So-called soft, intermediate, and alternative technologies are steps in this direction.

[7] The ideological change is mainly that of appreciating life quality (dwelling in situations of inherent value) rather than adhering to an increasingly higher standard of living. There will be a profound awareness of the difference between big and great. Some economists criticize the term “quality of life” because it is supposed to be vague. But on closer inspection, what they consider to be vague is actually the nonquantitative nature of the term. One cannot quantify adequately what is important for the quality of life as discussed here, and there is no need to do so.

[8] Those who subscribe to the foregoing points have an obligation directly or indirectly to try to implement the necessary changes. There is ample room for different opinions about priorities: what should be done first, what next? What is most urgent? What is clearly necessary as opposed to what is highly desirable but not absolutely pressing?

[1] Tom Regan, “The Nature and Possibility of an Environmental Ethic,” Environmental Ethics 3 (1881), pp. 19–34

[travellingwithrobbyray]

Dispatch from the World that Could Be: A Vision of Collective Thriving

The future we have carved is not a Human Future; it is an Ecological Future. A planet where all life speaks, breathes, and thrives in unison. Imagine a world that does not extract but regenerates, where cities are lush and ecosystems pulse with symbiotic life. Here, humanity lives as one of many, no longer central but part of an endlessly interwoven whole.

Food: An Act of Communion No longer does food stem from miles of cleared land, but from systems intertwined with the earth’s own rhythms. Rooftops hold living, breathing gardens, and forests of fruit-bearing trees line walkways, growing freely for all. We eat alongside the birds, the bees, the fungi that dwell on shaded logs. This is not "food production"—this is an act of communion.

Water: A Source Shared Gone are the days when water existed solely for human gain. Now, rivers flow uninhibited, nourishing every being. Rainwater gardens feed habitats, and reservoirs serve not only humans but the ecosystems around them. We have learned that water is not just ours to consume; it is ours to protect, for the plant that grows beside it, for the animals that drink from it, for the fish that leap within it.

Housing: Living Systems, Not Structures Imagine a home that doesn’t just occupy space but contributes to the life around it. Our houses are alive, grown from mycelium, tree roots, and renewable fibers, responding to seasons, adapting to climates. Insects nest in green roofs, fungi flourish in shadowed nooks, and birds find perches on leafy balconies. This is a new kind of architecture—one that supports life, a habitat not only for humans but for countless beings we share the earth with.

Education: An Ecosystem of Learning Knowledge is no longer confined to books; it is gathered in forests, rivers, and deserts. Children learn from ecosystems themselves, studying animal behavior, plant life, and seasonal cycles as part of a core curriculum. Here, knowledge grows with curiosity, teaching reverence for every life, respect for every relationship in nature’s web. To learn is to be humble before the vast, thriving intelligence of the more-than-human world.

Healthcare: A Living Web of Care Healing now extends beyond human bodies to the ecosystem itself. The fungi that decompose, the soil that renews, the animals that restore balance—these are integral to the practice of medicine. Herbs grow alongside medicines, soil health is as essential as our own, and we honor the intelligence of all life in keeping each other well. Human bodies and ecological health have become inseparable, woven into a tapestry of life care.

Social Equity and Gender Equality: Beyond Human Boundaries Equity extends beyond human borders. The richness of existence includes every species, and our respect has transcended the limited lines of identity. People now embody fluidity as naturally as ecosystems flow; roles and rights are respected in every species. There is no class or gender hierarchy here; instead, diversity is an organic truth of the world. Every being—human, animal, fungal, and floral—thrives as part of this collective resilience.

Work & Income: Purpose Over Profit Work is no longer a cycle of extraction; it is an act of regeneration. Humanity labors alongside ecosystems, contributing to the well-being of soil, water, animals, and plants. We don’t produce for profit; we contribute to the circle of life, giving as much as we receive. People create in collaboration with nature, discovering fulfillment in harmony with a living world. Wealth is no longer financial but ecological—a bounty shared with all.

Energy: A Flow of Life Energy is drawn with respect, with sensitivity. Cities are sunlit by solar, powered by wind, but always in partnership with the landscapes they inhabit. Technology is in balance with nature, quiet and gentle, flowing through the earth like breath. Energy exists as a natural rhythm, supporting both human life and non-human life equally, respecting migration paths, animal habitats, and plant cycles.

Justice: A Restorative, Planetary Ethic Justice is no longer a reactive system of laws; it is a proactive stewardship of balance. Justice has evolved beyond punishment—it is a healing act that extends to all life. When harm is done, it is remedied with care, restoration, and reparative action. This justice honors every creature, rooted in empathy and reciprocity, with humanity as a guardian of all life’s right to thrive.

Transportation: Movement for All Beings Our paths are woven with the world, allowing animals and plants their places, with transport gently woven into ecosystems. People walk on soft trails, sharing space with plants and pollinators. For distant travel, there are light, hovering vehicles designed to protect migration routes. Movement here respects all paths, creating a harmonious world where every creature’s route is considered.

Political Voice: A Planetary Assembly Governance is no longer an exclusively human realm. Humans speak on behalf of animals, plants, and entire ecosystems, advocating for the non-human world. All voices are heard, from the tree canopy to the ocean depths. Decisions are made not only for the present but with a sense of planetary continuity, for the wellbeing of all ecosystems and the future generations of every species.

Air and Noise: The Breath of the World The air is pristine, filled with the scent of earth, leaves, and wildflowers. Pollution is a memory, and noise has softened into birdsong, wind, and running streams. Cities hum with life, their quiet matched by the peaceful sounds of nature. Here, silence and sound are sacred, a heartbeat of a world renewed.

Non-Human Life: A World Shared Animals, plants, fungi—all have their place. Humanity is one of many, contributing, existing, respecting. Cities are ecosystems, parks are sanctuaries, and homes are habitats. Each life form is valued as essential to the planet’s resilience. We have moved from dominion to kinship, a world thriving in a symphony of species.

Chemical and Ocean Pollution: Clean Cycles Nothing toxic, nothing that harms. Rivers run clear, oceans shimmer, coral reefs are alive with color. Waste is minimal, endlessly recycled or returned to the soil, and the planet regenerates itself as quickly as we create. Oceans, rivers, forests, and skies are alive with life, every chemical balanced in the natural cycle.

Water Bodies: Veins of Life Waterways are revered, free-flowing, and cherished by all. Humanity’s relationship with water is now one of kinship; we no longer “use” it, we protect it. Every river, lake, and ocean is a sanctuary, and the flow of water supports entire ecosystems as it travels across the land, connecting life in one great circulatory system.

Waste Management: From Pollution to Renewal Waste no longer exists. Everything returns to the earth, and each material has its purpose in the regenerative cycle. The world has shifted from wasteful production to respectful creation, where resources move seamlessly through nature and into new forms, without disrupting the delicate ecological balance.

Public Spaces & Activities: Nature's Playgrounds Public spaces are sanctuaries. Forests run through city parks, woven with soft trails and green corridors, where animals and plants grow wild and free. Open spaces offer activities like quiet mushroom foraging, native plant gardening, and meditation near streams. Communities gather for wildcrafting workshops, or to play music that harmonizes with the soundscape of the trees and birds around them. Human activity is light, celebratory—art in parks, spontaneous dance, gatherings for ecological rituals, and silent walks through restored landscapes. Children play alongside animals, building respect for all beings in spaces designed to foster curiosity, kindness, and wonder.

Effects of Climate Change: A Planet Reborn The world heals as humans step back, nurturing ecosystems, not controlling them. Forests expand, wetlands filter the earth, and coastal habitats return. Climate change becomes a call for resilience, and humanity has learned to adapt, humble in the face of nature’s wisdom.

Urban Agriculture and Greenification: Food for All Every surface is alive with plants—food forests, edible landscapes, gardens on walls and rooftops. These spaces feed humans, pollinators, and wild animals alike. Plants grow freely, food is abundant, and every neighborhood is a green sanctuary, where life flows from every corner.

Gender, Sexuality, and Inclusion In a world that embraces fluidity, humans and nature both exist without boundaries. Diversity, among people and species, is celebrated as part of the natural world. Every being is accepted, their unique expression woven into the fabric of life, creating a vibrant, inclusive world.

Sustainability: Thriving in the Web of Life This is not a world of humans versus nature but one of humans within nature. Sustainability is an ethos of humility, of coexisting and contributing. People live knowing they are part of something larger—a web of life where each species holds equal significance. A world where the future belongs to everyone, human and non-human alike.

Imagine not a human-centered utopia, but an ecological rebirth, a thriving whole where humanity is but one thread in the tapestry of life. This is not only a vision—it is a possibility, waiting for us to make it real.

[murtyvepuri]

Philanthropy in Action: How Giving Transforms Lives

Philanthropy, the practice of giving time, money, or resources to help others, is a powerful force for good in the world. At its core, philanthropy is about making a positive impact on people's lives, often in ways that extend far beyond the immediate act of giving. Whether through large-scale donations by wealthy individuals or small, meaningful contributions from everyday citizens, philanthropy has the potential to transform communities, uplift individuals, and inspire lasting change. This article explores how giving in its various forms can change lives and create a ripple effect of positive outcomes.

Empowering Education: Unlocking Potential Through Learning

One of the most profound ways philanthropy transforms lives is through education. Education is a cornerstone of personal and societal development, providing individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their circumstances and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Philanthropic efforts in education range from funding scholarships for underprivileged students to building schools in remote areas, ensuring that more people have access to learning opportunities.

Consider the example of the "Reach for Excellence" program, which provides scholarships to high-achieving, low-income students, enabling them to attend top-tier private high schools. For many of these students, the opportunity to receive a quality education in a nurturing environment opens doors that would have otherwise remained closed. Graduates of such programs often go on to attend prestigious universities, pursue successful careers, and give back to their communities, perpetuating a cycle of empowerment that can span generations.

Advancing Healthcare: Improving Quality of Life and Saving Lives

Healthcare is another critical area where philanthropy has a transformative impact. Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet millions of people around the world still lack essential medical services. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in addressing these gaps, funding initiatives that improve healthcare delivery, advance medical research, and increase access to critical services.

One notable example is the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in global health. The foundation has invested billions of dollars in efforts to combat infectious diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. Through partnerships with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders, the foundation has helped to reduce the incidence of these diseases, save millions of lives, and improve the overall health of vulnerable populations.

Supporting Social Justice: Creating a More Equitable World

Philanthropy is also a powerful tool for advancing social justice and promoting equality. Around the world, millions of people face systemic discrimination and inequality based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Philanthropic organizations play a vital role in challenging these injustices and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society.

One example of philanthropy in action in the realm of social justice is the work of the Ford Foundation, which has long been a champion of civil rights, gender equality, and economic justice. The foundation supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic barriers and empowering marginalized communities. This includes funding grassroots organizations that advocate for policy changes, providing legal assistance to those who have been wrongfully incarcerated, and supporting programs that promote economic opportunities for women and minorities.

Environmental Stewardship: Protecting Our Planet for Future Generations

The environment is another critical area where philanthropy is making a significant impact. As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, deforestation, and pollution, philanthropic organizations are stepping up to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for all.

The work of the Nature Conservancy is a prime example of environmental philanthropy in action. Through its innovative conservation programs, the organization has protected millions of acres of land and water around the world, preserving critical habitats for wildlife and ensuring that natural resources are available for future generations. The Conservancy's efforts are supported by a broad base of donors, from individuals to corporations, demonstrating the collective power of philanthropy to drive environmental change.

Inspiring Others: The Ripple Effect of Generosity

One of the most potent aspects of philanthropy is its ability to inspire others to give. When individuals, corporations, and organizations see the impact of philanthropic efforts, they are often motivated to contribute in their way, creating a ripple effect of generosity that can amplify the impact of each act of giving.

High-profile philanthropists like Warren Buffett and MacKenzie Scott have used their wealth to fund large-scale initiatives that address pressing global challenges. Their actions have not only directly benefited millions of people but have also inspired countless others to engage in philanthropy, whether through financial contributions, volunteer work, or advocacy.

Philanthropy is a powerful force for good in the world, with the potential to transform lives and create lasting change. From empowering education and advancing healthcare to supporting social justice and protecting the environment, the impact of giving is felt in every corner of the globe. As more people and organizations engage in philanthropy, the ripple effect of generosity will continue to inspire new solutions, uplift communities, and build a better future for all. By recognizing the transformative power of giving, we can all contribute to a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.

[astronomyforastrologers]

Silver Linings ~ 12 Jul 2024

Silver Linings ~ 12 Jul 2024, Philip Sedgwick

It seems as though Earth and its inhabitants currently traverse an era that could have been induced by the ancient Chinese curse, “May you live in interesting times.” The planet’s climate is bonkers. Political elections wobble topsy-turvy skewing the balance of power here and there in unusual and interesting (of course) ways. Companies plot to mine the asteroid belt causing who knows what solar system gravitational disturbances. And Artificial Intelligence is upon us, like it or not.

In 1977 astronomers located Chiron. The era was delightful with astrological speculation as to what this object might be and could portend for humankind. In 1983 the Internet’s official beginning (according to some level of consensus) occurred. In 1990, the World Wide Web fell upon us and slowly but surely, pretty much every person (and if you believe social media, cats, dogs and other critters, too) in the world signed onto the “web,” and we began communicating via email. Following soon, social media and texts became new modalities for staying in touch (sort of). As the web wove more stands for humans to process, in 1992, astronomers discovered the second object orbiting in the realm of Chiron - the centaur Pholus. Also, the first Kuiper Belt Object beside Pluto was detected: Albion.

Notably, Chiron’s discovery preceded by a short while major technological advances that people needed to wrap around. And following the introduction of WWW, Pholus came into collective consciousness. It has been my contention that with their extra chakras and four-legged stance in life, the centaurs provide grounding for all of the disruption of the various levels of consciousness that may occur while navigating the web and now all the derivative applications stemming from its installation. And their natures provide healing modalities for all to engage.

For instance, Chiron helps a person reset groundedness after their soul gets slammed online. Hylonome assists a person resist FOMO (fear of missing out) baiting that occurs online and assuages reactions to any perceived missed opportunities. She also comes in very handy restoring confidence after enduring shaming or blaming online. Elatus reminds us all to establish well-intended motives and clear messaging before social media posting as to not cause unintentional interference. Nessus sorts out the vitriol and bad blood cause by online exchanges, though this process is not the simplest to sort.

The list goes on. On my website (use the “Eris, Sedna, Dwarf Planets and More” link on my homepage), there are keywords posted for all the named centaurs and Kuiper Belt Objects. They can be explored and applied to any sticky wicket arising from online or cyber-based activities or any matter that involves the complexities to new discoveries and innovations.

The centaurs clearly provided a silver lining with our collective engagement with online activities. I wonder what will be our astrological silver lining saving grace for AI?

Incidentally, should you need astrological support for your plans and circumstances you now face, the links at the end of the post will get you to the right place to schedule a consultation(s), ask a personal question, order a Galactic Report (which addresses many centaurs) and more. Better to engage sooner than later. Go FOMO especially if you don’t believe YOLO.

And now back to the unfolding tale...

Recent observations of gravitational interactions in space have encouraged and inspired those seeking the yet undiscovered Planet 9. Mike Brown, discovering astronomer of Eris, contends there is a Mars-sized planet likely in the orbital range of Sedna. Won’t this be fun to include astrologically? They’ve been looking for a while. In fact, they’ve been searching since the early discoveries in the Kuiper Belt.

What if our current technology lacks the right stuff for the discovery of this planet? It’s not like this planet isn’t affecting us now, even though we have no exacting conscious awareness of it. What do we do about coping with AI... and all the other crapola popping up everywhere?

The most likely antidote comes from the fact that in the next relatively short interval of time that follows the proclamation that AI is here to stay and advertising promises that this new cell phone will be able to make a cup of cocoa, is the sign changes that all the gaseous giants endure.

The preview to the AI-era (and all the other world chaos) would be Pluto entering Aquarius, with strong support from Haumea entering Scorpio and Sedna migrating to Gemini. The logline of these three suggests that personal creative resource (Haumea in Scorpio) must be applied to ensure that one’s effort constantly seek to provide the biggest and best solution with the most widespread application (Pluto in Aquarius) and to encourage all humans to realize they are where they are because of choices made, and if it’s not a great place to set up shop or thrive, changes can always be made (Sedna in Gemini) that require blaming no one nor any external condition for any circumstance in ones life. This trinity more or less took hold as the tech giants did their best to impose AI on the world.

Soon Jupiter enters the Cardinal sign of Cancer (June 2025) and early on, squares the ingresses of Saturn (May 2025) and Neptune in Aries (March 2025). This offers a lot to unpack. Perhaps the simplest plot through-line is: Support goes two ways (Jupiter in Cancer). The support you fantasize should organically come your way (Neptune in Aries), likely occurs upon you rendering the best you have to offer to everyone encountered (Saturn in Aries). Might as well applaud the successes of others as you pursue your greatest aspirations.

Watch how this works as those seeking the easy road apply AI and receive huge rebuffs from those to whom they “present their best.” AI has been known to fabricate legal cases to create a precedent. AI, by its proclaimed nature, makes stuff up for a living. AI has no ethics nor morality as if such qualities can be coded into ones and zeros - it’s up to the user. AI does not directly benefit from psychological angst and certainly does not understand the embarrassment of an uncontained belch or worse, flatulence that escapes at the worst possible social moment.

Uranus soon enters Gemini (July 2025) and shortly thereafter, while not immediately conjoining, matches efforts with what Sedna already established in Gemini. This looks like creating clear, conscious choices that look long into the future for impact and consequence, as Sedna demands with her lengthy orbit. Uranus notes that change must be made, not for the sake of change, causing chaos, or disrupting status quo, but rather to invoke mundane improvements that ease human consciousness in accepting evolutionary progress for what it is - exhilarating, tempting, tantalizing and as jolting as an unexpected jack-in-the-box appearance.

In the meantime, in case you can’t wait until next year for the salve of the gaseous giant changes, Neptune now transits late Pisces in a virtual square to the progress and advancement introduced by the Galactic Center. Years ago, and when getting paid by the word, I coined the term “psycho-technological adjustment” to describe the ability of humans to wrap around invention, innovation and change. How many years was it from the Galactic Center rich first flight of the Wright Brothers until commercial air travel became a thing? How long after the first e-mail service appeared did it take for people to hop onboard and establish e-mail accounts? Adjust your psyche to be more immediately receptive to all things that you realize you will eventually include in life. Warm up to these things as soon as you can and get the flow flowing.

It’s like that now. The chaos and confusion stems from a plethora of emotionally and soulfully saturated life circumstances that all of us must navigate regardless of opinion, politics, religion or consciousness. It’s thick and sticky in a yucky kind of way, and not always pleasant as it gets unstuck. It’s life in session though at this space and time, with all the advancements that have been made and all the circumstances created by individual choices along the way. The antidote: grasp the transits and those we know will induce relief sooner than later.

Take a moment to explore each and every condition to which you must respond and react. Ask yourself:

Where is the silver lining? How does all of this impact my end game and resolve my karma in a good way? Is the trend at hand supporting my needs and desires or opposing them? Are people supporting my agendas or getting in the dang way? What can I do about each and every annoyance in life to locate the silver lining? How can I present silver linings and offer solace and support to those in the peak of the storm and their dark night of the soul?

More soon.

Here are the links for ordering astrological services and more:

One Stop Shopping Order Form Astrological Texts

Meteoric the Movie on Vimeo ZAP! on Vimeo

[amit0707]

What are the best 10 Points on the Importance of Water?

Water is often hailed as the "elixir of life," and it's no exaggeration. It's a fundamental element that supports our planet and all living beings. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 key reasons why water holds such immense importance in our lives and for the well-being of our planet.

Vital for Survival

Water is the most basic necessity for human survival. Approximately 60% of our bodies consist of water, and nearly every bodily function depends on it. From digestion and circulation to temperature regulation and waste elimination, water plays an indispensable role in keeping us alive.

Sustains Ecosystems

Beyond meeting our personal needs, water plays a pivotal role in maintaining entire ecosystems. Lakes, rivers, and oceans are teeming with a wide array of plant and animal life, forming intricate food webs and preserving biodiversity.

Agriculture and Food Production

The agricultural sector heavily relies on water. Through irrigation systems, we can cultivate the crops that feed billions worldwide. Without an adequate water supply, food production would be severely hampered, potentially leading to food shortages.

Clean Drinking Water and Hygiene

Access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental human right. Insufficient access to clean water can lead to waterborne diseases, which pose significant health risks. Moreover, water is indispensable for maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation practices.

Industrial and Economic Significance

Water serves as a critical resource for numerous industries, including manufacturing, energy production, and mining. Industries depend on water for their operations, and water scarcity can result in economic challenges and impact the cost of goods and services.

Renewable Energy Source

Hydropower harnesses water as a source of renewable energy. Dams and turbines capture the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. This provides a clean and sustainable energy source while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

Climate Regulation

Water is a key player in regulating Earth's climate. Oceans and vast bodies of water help stabilize temperatures by gradually absorbing and releasing heat. Changes in ocean currents and temperatures can have far-reaching effects on weather patterns and climate.

Erosion Control and Habitat Preservation

Water acts as a natural force that shapes landscapes and controls erosion by carrying away soil and sediment. Wetlands and riparian areas play a crucial role in preserving habitats and safeguarding water quality.

Recreational and Aesthetic Value

Beyond its utilitarian functions, water offers recreational opportunities and aesthetic beauty. People engage in various water-related activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, finding solace and joy in the serene beauty of water bodies.

Summary

In a nutshell, water is undeniably the lifeblood of our planet. Its importance extends from the microscopic processes within our bodies to the vast ecosystems supporting a multitude of species. Recognizing and respecting the significance of water is not only vital for our own well-being but also for the health of our planet. Change your drinking water to https://azoicwater.com/ and see the change in your health.

[sophiesicelebblog]

Week 9: Human Population, Animal Rights, Celebrity Babies, and Climate Change

Are attitudes about fertility changing among Gen Z and Millennials?

I do think that there has been a shift in how Gen Z and Millennials think about and discuss fertility, one that has shifted to autonomy and greater questioning of the reasons why we've been made to feel like we must have children. A significant part of the conversation is due to economics; children are expensive! Increasingly the conversations I've had with friends about having children (including with my own partner, whom I've been with for four years) include the sentiment, "Maybe it would be nice to have kids someday, but how will we even afford to care for them?" I've also been feeling incredibly encouraged to see Gen Z and Millennials challenging patriarchal and capitalistic norms, many of which encourage us to procreate, understanding the value of making our own life decisions for ourselves!

Having one fewer child is 73 times more effective for the planet and animals than being vegan. Thoughts?

Wow! Yes, I was surprised to learn this. Once you hear it, it makes total sense, which leads me to think the reason that it's so surprising is that it's rarely talked about. I've heard quite a lot in recent years about the effects of livestock and agriculture on carbon emissions, and therefore how adopting a vegan lifestyle cuts down on that, but upon reflection, I can absolutely see how having fewer children would go even further to reduce our carbon footprint: it means fewer people to feed and house (which means consuming less energy) and fewer people driving cars and purchasing clothes and goods (consider plastic goods alone, for instance!).

Do celebrities' baby news put pressure on others to have children? How?

I'm not sure if celebrities' baby news intentionally puts pressure on others, as I think when they share about their babies they're likely just trying to increase awareness about them as a sort of brand (I'm thinking of the Kardashians as a specific example here, as their family is their brand), but I do think it could have the unintentional effect of pressuring others. When they show their cute babies in designer children's clothing, they're advertising a certain lifestyle without addressing how their financial resources afford them so much help! For those who may not know better, they may see this and aspire to live like that and give a child an extravagant life like that, although it is difficult or near-impossible to achieve.

"Since I had no kids and my husband was pretty independent, I had freedom. So I think a big part of my whole success is the fact that I was free to work." -Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton, apart from being known as an internationally-beloved artist, is also well known for her philanthropic efforts; she got special attention recently for her organization, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which gifts free books for children. Clearly, she partially attributes her ability to help others with her lack of children and the time and resources that affords her. She doesn't restrict her work to humans, however, and she recently launched Doggy Parton, her line of toys and apparel for pets that benefits Willa B. Farms Animal Rescue. The website (below) states, "Part of the proceeds will support Willa B. Farms, a rescue where animals in need find never-ending love. Don't we all need that?"

How can we innovate ways to provide women globally with more agency over their fertility decisions? What is the impact of the Roe v. Wade rollbacks in the United States on these trends?

I think one way we can provide women with more agency over fertility decisions is through education! Yes, just as Vanessa Nakate taught us, the key to a healthy, prosperous life begins with a quality education. We need to teach women and girls about reproductive health so they can advocate for themselves and make informed decisions. From there, we can all make better decisions with our medical health and who we choose to vote for, which has major repercussions on our ability to choose how we plan a family for ourselves.

We have unfortunately learned this the hard way with the reversal of Roe v. Wade. Because of a Supreme Court decision influenced largely by politicians, many people will be left without access to quality reproductive healthcare and will lack the education and resources to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the first place. More unwanted children will be born (contributing to the foster care-to-prison pipeline), lives may be lost due to lack of access to terminate a dangerous pregnancy, and quality of life will suffer for many. This is why I say we must educate and vote.

How do celebrities like Jane Goodall and Cher have an impact on expanding empathy for animals, reducing agricultural land use and expanding biodiversity?

I think what celebrities like Jane Goodall and Cher do really successfully is that they communicate in such a way that humanizes animal and plant life. Goodall speaks to the emotional connection that can be shared with chimpanzees, and Cher tells us about the psychological distress that elephants are capable of, just like humans. I think it's crucial to show that animals have feelings, needs, and personalities, same as us, and that they're not stupid or inferior to humans, but amazing, intelligent creatures we should consider ourselves lucky to share the planet with. Celebrities like Goodall and Cher use their resources and professional and artistic connections to educate the masses, showing places and wildlife that we would never get to see in our daily lives.

Check this out: In the spirit of the documentaries we viewed recently, and coinciding with the topic this week, I have a documentary to recommend! The Elephant Whisperers won the Academy Award this year for Best Documentary Short Film and it is absolutely wonderful.

What is the 6th Greatest Extinction event and how does it relate to the Anthropocene?

"Unlike previous extinction events caused by natural phenomena, the sixth mass extinction is driven by human activity, primarily (though not limited to) the unsustainable use of land, water and energy use, and climate change." -World Wildlife Fund (https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/what-is-the-sixth-mass-extinction-and-what-can-we-do-about-it#:~:text=Unlike%20previous%20extinction%20events%20caused,been%20converted%20for%20food%20production.)

The Anthropocene (aka "Age of Humans") is the epoch we're currently in, beginning with the dawn of humanity. In short, humans are the direct and sole cause of loss of biodiversity on the planet presently occurring in the Anthropocene. In particular, the way we grow food is responsible for killing ecosystems, releasing carbon into the atmosphere, and contributing to droughts. This is different from the previous mass extinctions, as they were caused by natural phenomena, while this sixth mass extinction is caused by humans alone (despite the fact that we only account for .01% of Earth's total biomass). See this short video from Smithsonian Magazine:

Save the Sea Turtles!

I'm probably most aware of sea turtles as an endangered species because of the recent push to ban plastic straws that pollute the ocean and get stuck in their noses. Due to overfishing, they are increasingly getting stuck in fishing nets, they're being poached, and climate change impacts sand temperatures, affecting the sex of the hatchlings, which may decrease population numbers (https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/sea-turtle).

So, how can we help preserve their habitats?

The National Ocean Service has a list of ways to help protect the ocean, including by conserving water use, reducing waste and pollutants, using less energy and reducing vehicle-usage, and shopping wisely for sustainable products (https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/ocean/help-our-ocean.html). Of course, you can also volunteer to help ocean-cleaning efforts! There are organizations such as The Ocean Cleanup that are working to innovate technology to lead the largest ocean cleanup in history.

[submitwittyblognamehere]

I am not a botanist, but I am pursuing a career in international relations and sustainable development. I don't know a lot of specifics about plants and animals or their care, and would never consider myself an expert on the subject, but as a senior history major I do know a lot about our sociopolitical systems and the major events which have influenced our world development to this point. I've spent 4 years studying the law and carceral state in America, the marginalization of religious groups, racism, ableism, the persecution of queer people, social theory, sustainable development, and urban development. All this to say, I feel qualified to give my 2 cents here.

Op is not saying that these other interest and curiosities are invaluable, your interpretation (and those of several others here) is purposefully misleading and in bad faith.

Hotel has two main points:

it is healthy and necessary for People as a Society to be engaged and curious about their natural surroundings and everything that is included in them, and

The non-human life that exists in this world is just as deserving of respect and care as the people who live here.

And Op is right, because the way of life that capitalism, the West, and the history of colonization and imperialism have led us to is quickly destroying the only place we and everything on this planet have to live. Top soil is deteriorating, we are currently living through a mass extinction event, and the climate crisis is accelerating at a pace which will in our lifetime disable and lead to the deaths of millions of people if we do not stop it.

In a perfect world, we could be free to investigate any of our interests to our hearts' content without having to worry about the continued existence of our Earth or bear responsibility for the lives of others, but this is not a perfect world.

Understanding how a light bulb works or why some shiny surfaces aren't soft or knowing how to replace car parts isn't going to fix the underlying and systemic issues which are currently putting us all at risk. All of us. Humans. Plants. Animals. Bacteria. Ecosystems. The lot of it. Nature cannot heal itself against our own forces without either A. Our help and cooperation, or B. Our absence.

Thankfully, evidence clearly shows that human interaction with nature can lead to its success at a level which is not possible on its own! Indigenous people world wide have been demonstrating shepherding techniques for literal millenia---a symbiotic relationship which helps all of the organisms that are a part of it, and finally mainstream privileged groups are starting to come around to this same conclusion.

Your personal interest in cats or astronomy or computers or theater or reading or biking or football or art is important. But it will not keep this planet alive.

As Op and many others have said, the mass cultural devaluation of the existence and dignity of life on this earth, and its reduction to a source of capital and/or entertainment (as influenced by the West and core nations) will mean the death of us and many of the species here if it is not handled.

We should have the right to freely pursue our natural curiosity, but we do not have that luxury in this moment. Systemic change starts with you. The future of this planet can start with you. But if we as an international society do not start working together to begin these processes on an unprecedented scale, we are most certainly doomed to fail. That is scary, but it is the truth. You do not have to become an expert to enjoy the beauty of this world, but we all must ensure that we have a full comprehension of our place as a citizen of Nature first before any other socially constructed institution. This cognitive shift is absolutely necessary.

Frequent and make use of local resources which support your local environments. Vote. Make the best use of your wallet and those wages you earn to payback sustainable organizations. Reduce the amount of waste you produce by as much as you can. It won't be perfect, but if we all made these changes we would start to get somewhere.

You don't have to stop exploring your personal curiosities, you just have to start giving a shit about the life on this planet.

[Edit: I want to emphasize just quickly that all of those things I mentioned I've studied as qualifications at the beginning of my addition? All of them are interconnected. Even before as someone who considered myself well read and informed as a young novice of world issues, topics I couldn't have predicted to intersect ended up connecting in spontaneous and astounding ways.

The origins of the American carceral state as the attempt to make a system that was rehabilitative, sabotaged by its own inventors' inability to see community restoration as an alternative to forced isolation and shame. The way our cities and suburbs have been shaped by the competing interests of American individualism and a desire to reconnect with natural open spaces and greenery. How isolation is used as a tool to promote that same thread of individualism and exclude marginalized groups. How science has been manipulated to promote those same systems of oppression and justify violence in the name of Natural Laws. How capitalism exploits the need for independence to inflate profits and waste.

I cannot understate how all of these things are connected like a twisted web of domino lines, each upholding or subverting some other influence.

The best thing we can do to dismantle these inherently harmful systems is reconnect with our most common bonds---and one of the most important ones is that which is being argued here: our connection to nature.]

I agree with the idea that a lot of humans nowadays have a severe lack of curiosity about the world, but I think there has to be a solution other than shame.

I think about this every day because the fate of our world hangs on curiosity: either we will rediscover the importance and wonders of the soil and bugs and flowers and water and finally with the whole natural world, or this way will be forgotten.

People raised in the great wasteland of the suburbs and roads and buildings have never seen most of the plants and creatures that are supposed to fill every field and meadow. So many humans have never seen with their own eyes more than a scant few of the most common of hundreds of wildflowers that are supposed to surround them. Some live in biomes designated forest and have never witnessed truly mature trees. They do not know what the birds sound like. When they see an ordinary deer, they are awed and amazed by it or even afraid of it. They have never eaten any of the delicious wild fruits that grow in their homeland; all birds except starlings and robins and sparrows are so strange and beautiful that they stare in wonder. They confront insects like people on an alien planet encountering an unknown life form: What is this? Will it hurt me?

I cannot even describe the grief I feel on behalf of humans that grow up and live in the wasteland of pavement and lawn. That we are expected to live in these brutal environments, that we are expected to be content without the right or ability to live alongside living creatures, to walk among wildflowers, to hear birdsong, to feel the plush softness of moss, to see even common bees and butterflies—the fact that we live, work, and raise our children in poisonous wastes where nearly everything has been wiped out, and the simplest and most abundant of natural pleasures are rare privileges—it's cruel. It's a crime against the human spirit. It makes me so angry and sad.

When I started researching plants, I had no idea that I would end up expanding my mind so much that I would be virtually a different person within the year. Before I learned, I could not have imagined the diversity and beauty that exists in the world. My mind did not have the tools to come up with it.

I lived for over twenty years believing that there was only one species of firefly. I lived for over twenty years not knowing that the Southeastern US has native bamboo. I had never tasted the indescribable flavor of a pawpaw or seen the iridescent vibrance of a red-spotted purple butterfly. I had only seen a Pileated Woodpecker out the window of a car. I had never touched true topsoil, the soft, living blanket of rich, sweet-smelling earth full of mycelium, as springy and plush as a mattress. Just one year ago, I knew nothing!

Humans, as creatures, are insatiably curious and hunger for beauty. It is so cruel to deprive a human of relationship with their natural environment.

It is no wonder that we are all addicted to the internet—we have a crucial need that is unfulfilled. Compared with a forest, the world of lawns and buildings is so ridiculously flat and unstimulating. You would expect humans in such a place to feel constantly bored, restless, frustrated, and incurably sad.

I feel that lack of curiosity can be a chosen thing, but it is also a defense mechanism against a world that will feel like sandpaper on the senses of the curious.

But we need curiosity to fix this—we need the ability to notice the living things that have crept in at the edges of the wasteland and be infected and tormented by their beauty. We need to recognize the forest reaching into our cage in the form of tiny saplings. We need to discard the word "weed," not because it is derogatory because it is fundamentally incurious—it designates a plant as needing no identity outside of its unwantedness. We must learn their names. We must wonder what their names are.

[freelancershahin]

HOW HABITS ARE YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS

✅ HOW  HABITS ARE YOUR  NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS. AS SEEN ON NBC’S  ’S H E I L A   M A C  SHOW’ 🙏🙏 Do not forget to like, subscribe, and share 🧡   ✍ Broadcasting TODAY on my syndicated @CNBC @nbc News Radio Channel @kcaaradio 102.3 FM * 106.5 FM * 1050 AM streaming at www.KCAARadio.com and has a coverage area of five million people #1 in News/Talk FM *Replay on YouTube’s ‘Sheila MAC Show’. Available Globally on many stations and all major podcasting channels.   🌟 About This More Video ✅ HOW  HABITS ARE YOUR  NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS. Sheila Mac with Special Guest: ERIK SWANSON who has spent the past 18 years working with and sharing the stages with top experts such as Brian Tracy, Tony Robbins, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Bob Proctor, and many others from the best-selling book 'THE SECRET” as well as The “THINK AND GROW RICH”Napoleon Hill Foundation! ❤️ Sheila guides entrepreneurs and working professionals through the profitable steps of building a business:  creation of expansion; marketing from planning to implementation; wealth building and preservation through real estate investing; and strategic planning all so that you can get back to the business of living your best life. Learn more at www.SheilaMac.com 💠 About this more video ✅ DOUBLE YOUR MARKETING SUCCESS & BE SEEN NOW: Interview with Jay Abraham 👉 https://youtu.be/x2Ie5_lJfDs THINK FOR YOURSELF EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO MAKE YOUR OWN RULES 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/vdRGHGdisEM ✅ TIPS OF WISDOM THAT SHOW UP IN ALL RELIGIOUS TEXTS 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/16z-aXJju6Y ✅ BUSINESS LEADER HABITS TO INCREASE YOUR INCOME AND IMPACT IN ANY ECONOMY 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/WAIyoX02ftQ ✅ 10 WAYS TO STOP PLAYING GAMES WITH YOUR FINANCIAL FREEDOM 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/KrBQjDvVWrE ✅ 5 WAYS TO BUILD COMMUNITY THROUGH CHANGING TIMES 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/nvBT3o_XW1k ✅ 5 IP AND LEGAL SECRETS BUSINESS OWNERS NEED TO KNOW 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/2jtxfR6SmpI ✅ MANIFEST AN ABUNDANCE OF LUCK, LOVE AND LAUGHTER IN YOUR LIFE! 👉 This Video Link: https://youtu.be/r2uinK-0Rs8 Subscribe to my YouTube at Sheila Mac Show: THANK YOU for your incredible support  🙏🏼 💠 SHEILA’S FAVORITE THINGS: SPECIAL thanks to this show’s sponsor’s and Sheila’s affiliates: BEAUTY COUNTER a makeup company committed to formulating clean beauty products that protect both people and the planet. As leaders in clean, BC are doing their part to advocate for human rights and climate justice while minimizing the environmental impacts of our products, packaging, and footprint. Sheila is a representative and helps others make the switch to cleaner, beauty learn more at www.BeautyCounter.com/sheilamac TOOLS FOR BUSINESS & LIFE: https://sheilamac.com/tools-for-busin... This link shares my favorite tools including my highly loved manifesting pens and the planning system that helps me somehow magically get it all done: Go to SheilaMac.com TOOLS FOR BUSINESS AND LIFE. GOING THROUGH A LIFE SITUATION and need a tool to help you with LIFESTYLE DESIGN get “BOOT STRAPS & BRA STRAPS ‘The Formula to go from Rock Bottom and Back into action in any situation!” Use this link for extra free gifts: (INCLUDES ADDITIONAL CHAPTER VIDEOS AND GIFTS VALUED AT $199) AT: https://geni.us/bootstrapsbrastraps 🌟 Follow My Social Media Account 🔶 Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/Sheilamacshow 🔶 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilamac/ 🔶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheilamacshow/ 🔶 Twitter: https://twitter.com/SHEILAMACSHOW 🔶 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🔶 Medium: https://medium.com/@sheilamacshow 🔶 Website: https://sheilamac.com/ 🔶 Audiobook: https://www.audible.com/pd/Boot-Strap... 🔶 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SheilaMac HABITS, RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS, RESOLUTION, NEW YEAR'S, 2023, habits,new year resolutions, how to set goals, new year new me, new year resolution,new year goals,new years resolutions 2023,new years,new years resolutions,new year,holidays,CEO,enterpreneur,enterpreneur mindset,Sheila Mac,sheila mac,#sheilamacshow,Sheila Mac Show,small business,HOW HABITS ARE YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS,how habits are your new year's resolution solutions #NBC, #CONSULTANT, #SHEILAMAC, #SHEILAMACSHOWShow less

[nasa]

NASA Spotlight: Earth Climate Scientist Dr. Yolanda Shea

Dr. Yolanda Shea is a climate scientist at NASA's Langley Research Center. She’s the project scientist for the CLARREO Pathfinder (CPF) mission, which is an instrument that will launch to the International Space Station to measure sunlight reflected from Earth. It will help us understand how much heat is being trapped by our planet’s atmosphere. Her mission is designed to help us get a clearer picture than we currently have of the Earth’s system and how it is changing

Yolanda took time from studying our home planet to answer questions about her life and career! Get to know this Earth scientist:

What inspired you to study climate science?

Starting in early middle school I became interested in the explanations behind the weather maps and satellite images shown on TV. I liked how the meteorologists talked about the temperature, moisture, and winds at different heights in the atmosphere, and then put that together to form the story of our weather forecasts. This made me want to learn more about Earth science, so I went to college to explore this interest more.

The summer after my junior year of college, I had an internship during which my first assignment was to work with a program that estimated ocean currents from satellite measurements. I was fascinated in the fact that scientists had discovered a way to map ocean currents from space!

Although I had learned about Earth remote sensing in my classes, this was my first taste of working with, and understanding the details of, how we could learn more about different aspects of the physical world from satellite measurements.

This led to my learning about other ways we can learn about Earth from space, and that includes rigorous climate monitoring, which is the area I work in now.

What does a day in your life look like?

Before I start my workday, I like to take a few minutes to eat breakfast, knit (I’m loving sock knitting right now!), and listen to a podcast or audio book. Each workday really looks different for me, but regardless, most days are a combination of quieter moments that I can use for individual work and more interactive times when I’m interfacing with colleagues and talking about project or science issues. Both types of work are fun in different ways, but I’m glad I have a mixture because all researchers need that combination of deep thinking to wrap our minds around complex problems and also time to tackle those problems with others and work on solving them together.

When do you feel most connected to Earth?

I’ve always loved sunsets. I find them peaceful and beautiful, and I love how each one is unique. They are also a beautiful reminder of the versatility of reflected light, which I study. Sitting for a moment to appreciate the beauty and calm I feel during a sunset helps me feel connected to Earth.

What will your mission – CLARREO Pathfinder – tell us about Earth?

CLARREO Pathfinder (CPF) includes an instrument that will take measurements from the International Space Station and will measure reflected sunlight from Earth. One of its goals is to demonstrate that it can take measurements with high enough accuracy so that, if we have such measurements over long periods of time, like several decades, we could detect changes in Earth’s climate system. The CPF instrument will do this with higher accuracy than previous satellite instruments we’ve designed, and these measurements can be used to improve the accuracy of other satellite instruments.

How, if at all, has your worldview changed as a result of your work in climate science?

The longer I work in climate science and learn from the data about how humans have impacted our planet, the more I appreciate the fragility of our one and only home, and the more I want to take care of it.

What advice would you give your younger self?

It’s ok to not have everything figured out at every step of your career journey. Work hard, do your best, and enjoy the journey as it unfolds. You’ll inevitably have some surprises along the way, and regardless of whether they are welcome or not, you’re guaranteed to learn something.

Do you have a favorite metaphor or analogy that you use to describe what you do, and its impact, to those outside of the scientific community?

I see jigsaw puzzles as a good illustration of how different members of a science community play a diverse set of roles to work through different problems. Each member is often working on their own image within the greater puzzle, and although it might take them years of work to see their part of the picture come together, each image in the greater puzzle is essential to completing the whole thing. During my career, I’ll work on a section of the puzzle, and I hope to connect my section to others nearby, but we may not finish the whole puzzle. That’s ok, however, because we’ll hand over the work that we’ve accomplished to the next generation of scientists, and they will keep working to bring the picture to light. This is how I try to think about my role in climate science – I hope to contribute to the field in some way; the best thing about what I have done and what I will do, is that someone else will be able to build on my work and keep helping humanity come to a better understanding of our Earth system.

What is a course that you think should be part of required school curriculum?

Time and project management skills – I think students tend to learn these skills more organically from their parents and teachers, but in my experience I stumbled along and learned these skills through trial and error. To successfully balance all the different projects that I support now, I have to be organized and disciplined, and I need to have clear plans mapped out, so I have some idea of what’s coming and where my attention needs to be focused.

Another course not specifically related to my field is personal financial management. I was interested in personal finance, and that helped me to seek out information (mainly through various blogs) about how to be responsible with my home finances. There is a lot of information out there, but making sure that students have a solid foundation and know what questions to ask early on will set them to for success (and hopefully fewer mistakes) later on.

What’s the most unexpected time or place that your expertise in climate science and/or algorithms came in handy?

I think an interesting part of being an atmospheric scientist and a known sky-watcher is that I get to notice beautiful moments in the sky. I remember being on a trip with friends and I looked up (as I usually do), and I was gifted with a gorgeous sundog and halo arc. It was such a beautiful moment, and because I noticed it, my friends got to enjoy it too.

Can you share a photo or image from a memorable NASA project you’ve worked on, and tell us a little bit about why the project stood out to you?

I absolutely loved being on the PBS Kids TV Show, SciGirls for their episode SkyGirls! This featured a NASA program called Students’ Clouds Observations On-Line (S’COOL). It was a citizen science program where students from around the globe could take observations of clouds from the ground that coincided with satellite overpasses, and the intention was to help scientists validate (or check) the accuracy of the code they use to detect clouds from satellite measurements. I grew up watching educational programming from PBS, so it was an honor to be a science mentor on a TV show that I knew would reach children across the nation who might be interested in different STEM fields. In this photo, the three young women I worked with on the show and I are talking about the different types of clouds.

To stay up to date on Yolanda's mission and everything going on in NASA Earth science, be sure to follow NASA Earth on Twitter and Facebook.

🌎 If you're looking for Earth Day plans, we have live events, Q&As, scavenger hunts and more going on through April 24. Get the details and register for our events HERE.

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com.

[hope-for-the-planet]

I'm coming to your blog directly after having a panic attack about environmental stuff because I don't know where else to go. I'm a teen right now, and I'm scared out of my mind because I'm worried I won't have a future, or the one I have will be so shitty and terrible. everytime I feel better and hopeful after reading an article or something, I see someone online say how we're all fucked, or how this is the last generation to die comfortably. I'm sorry for pinning you with the task of alleviating my anxiety, but I don't know where else to go :(

Hi Anon,

I am so sorry that you are feeling this way and that it took me some time to get to your ask—you and your fears are always welcome here. You have been on my mind since I got this ask as I’ve been thinking about the best way to answer it.

It is deeply unfair that you are already feeling this burden so acutely as a teenager. Please know that you are not alone—there are so many extremely smart, dedicated, and talented people working to make sure that people like you have a future to look forward to. You are inheriting a legacy of generations of older humans who have fought and continue to fight to protect our planet and mitigate climate change. We are in a better situation now than we would have been without their actions and the number of people who care deeply about this issue gets bigger every day.

If you are regularly having panic attacks or anxiety that feels beyond your control, please seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional—or find a trusted friend or family member to help you access mental health resources if needed. We all need extra support sometimes (myself included!)—mental health professionals can help you build strategies and access resources to keep yourself regulated when you run into major anxiety triggers.

It is completely reasonable to have concerns about what the future will hold—but you absolutely still have a future and the chance to live a meaningful and fulfilling life even in the midst of this crisis. We will face new and different obstacles from past generations, but there is still ample opportunity to mitigate the scope of this crisis, to adapt our communities to weather the challenges of climate change, and to leverage this necessary change to build a better world.

On this journey there will continue to be times when there is bad news and setbacks and difficult change—and this means that cultivating resilience and coping strategies is an important part of building your own adaptability and preventing a constant drain on your mental health.

This includes 1) Building an arsenal of healthy coping strategies and mental health resources that work for you (climate anxiety can be treated with many of the same strategies as other types of anxiety). 2) Avoiding messages of despair and seeking out sources of hope and energy. Surround yourself with people and media that feed your hope, join communities working to make things better, focus on the piece of the puzzle you can help with and don’t dwell on bad news that you can’t do anything about. Anxiety isn’t activism. 3) Even when you get really good at the previous step, there are still times when the world throws setbacks and despair in your face and you have to grit your teeth and choose hope anyway. This is the hard one and it takes time and practice—but this is how you get through those rough patches when there is a slew of bad news and all seems to be for nothing.

On days when the world doesn’t offer hope, hope is a gift you give to yourself. It is the only way we have kept fighting this far and it is the only way we will succeed in the end. Go looking for something to be hopeful about, and if you cannot find it, make it yourself.

Imagining a future for yourself--a future with hope and meaning--is a big part of this.

I’ve linked a few other posts that I hope will help you here: (X) (X) (X) (X) (X) (X) (X) (X) (X) (X)

I hope that this helps you. I wish I had an easy trick to tell you to switch off the anxiety. I wish that I could give you a hug through the internet and tell you that you aren’t alone and we are going to be ok. Please, please take care of yourself <3

[marveltrumpshate]

This year continued to be A Lot and we decided to ensure that there were charities that directly addressed current events. Folded into this post are groups that work for aid targeting every natural disaster and man-made one, climate change, the ongoing COVID pandemic, and more. If you're looking for an organization that directly addresses any of those, this is your spotlight post.

For more information on donation methods and accepted currencies, please refer to our list of organizations page.

Center for Reproductive Rights

The Center for Reproductive Rights is the only global legal advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring reproductive rights are protected in law as fundamental human rights for the dignity, equality, health, and well-being of every person. With local partners across five continents, they have secured legal victories before national courts, UN Committees, and regional human rights bodies on issues such as access to life-saving obstetrics care, contraception, maternal health, and safe abortion services and the prevention of forced sterilization and child marriage.

Clean Air Task Force

As we've seen for a long time now but especially this year with constant natural disasters and alarming news from all over the world, climate change is real and we need to do something about it. Over the past 25 years, CATF, a group of climate and energy experts who think outside the box to solve the climate crisis, has pushed for technology innovations, legal advocacy, research, and policy changes. Their goal is to achieve a zero-emissions, high-energy planet at an affordable cost.

Coalition for Rainforest Nations

Boasting a voluntary membership of over 50 rainforest nations, CORN provides a single voice to countries that didn’t cause the climate emergency but nevertheless feel the brunt of it daily. CORN originated the global conservation mechanism Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) to stop deforestation. REDD+ was successfully mandated in the Paris Climate Agreement (2015) and covers 90% of the world’s tropical rainforests.

International Rescue Committee

Founded in 1933, the IRC is a long-standing trusted partner in supporting those whose lives have been upended by sudden violence, political or natural. Their main fundraising focuses right now are Pakistan and Ukraine, but they are no stranger to areas of disaster throughout the world as they currently work in 40 countries. The IRC provides emergency aid and long-term assistance, including refugee settlement, and focuses on health, education, economic well-being, empowerment, and safety.

Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

Odds are you’ve heard of MSF, the global organization that sends trained medical professionals to the places they’re needed most. MSF has been working globally for nearly 40 years, providing medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare—no matter what. They’re guided by principles of independence, impartiality, and neutrality to global political policies or movements.

National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum

NAPAWF is the only organization focused on building a movement for social, political, and economic change for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women and girls. Their work focuses on policy and structural change, organizing and civic engagement, and legal advocacy and judicial strategy. They also tackle reproductive health and rights, economic justice, and immigration and racial justice.

National Network of Abortion Funds

The National Network of Abortion Funds builds power with members to remove financial and logistical barriers to abortion access by centering people who have abortions and organizing at the intersections of racial, economic, and reproductive justice. They provide their grassroots base of over 80 autonomous, diverse organizations/abortion funds with leadership development, infrastructure support, and technical assistance. Some fund procedures while others cover abortion pills, transportation, lodging, childcare, doula services, and other forms of support.

National Resource Defense Council

"We believe the world’s children should inherit a planet that will sustain them as it has sustained us. NRDC works to ensure the rights of all people to the air, the water and the wild, and to prevent special interests from undermining public interests." Since 1970, the NRDC has been a leader in legal advocacy for climate justice. They work with a staff of about 700 lawyers, scientists, and policy experts to reduce pollution and protect natural resources nationally and internationally.

Partners In Health

Founded by Paul Farmer when he was still in medical school, PIH is committed to bringing exceptional health care to every corner of the planet. PIH also works to provide access to food, transportation, housing, and other key components of healing to the most vulnerable. Their work started in Haiti but has expanded rapidly across the globe.

RIP Medical Debt

Over 100 million Americans (one in three) are struggling with paying off medical bills. COVID has only added to those numbers, putting people under significant financial burden and emotional distress. This organization buys up medical debt in order to forgive it with no tax consequences to donors or recipients. Donate just $1 and you wipe out $100 of someone's medical debt, $100 to get rid of $10,000 in debt, and so on—the ripple effect is real. Through their work, RIP Medical Help not only helps with financial relief but also brings attention to the need for a more compassionate, transparent, equitable, and affordable healthcare system.

The Solutions Project

Using grants and donations, The Solutions Project empowers grassroots leaders to build solutions, funding, and influence for the communities most affected by the climate crisis. They also provide media training and networking and leverage influencer and media relationships for their grantees. Due to the lack of representation of communities directly impacted by climate change, they aim to invest 95% of their resources to front line leaders of color and at least 80% to organizations led by women and gender nonconforming people. If The Solutions Project sounds familiar to you, it might be because Mark Ruffalo is one of the founders and he and Don Cheadle are among the board of directors!

World Central Kitchen

Started by Chef José Andrés, WCK makes sure that people are fed in the wake of natural disasters. Their programs advance human and environmental health, offer access to professional culinary training, create jobs, and improve food security. WCK also teaches food safety and cooking classes to native people who live where disasters have occurred, so they may open restaurants and support the local economy more permanently. Their current focuses are partnering with restaurants, one of the hardest-hit industries, through the pandemic (here and here) and assisting those affected by Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Fiona, floods in Pakistan, and the war in Ukraine.

[thepowerofindigenousknowledge]

Using Indigenous Knowledge to Solve Issues Related to Globalization

Indigenous knowledge possesses a wealth of information that may be able to solve various issues in the world today.  Globalization, or neo-colonialism, a prominent conflict in todays society can be interpreted in various different ways. First, it may be seen as economic interdependency across vast distances. Second, it could mean information availability and movement across those same distances. Third, it can be viewed as a reduction of the world into a singular global village (Moahi, 2007, p.2). Many people believe  that globalization is characterized by an imbalance  of political and economic power, and that it is the more powerful countries in the north that benefit from globalization (2007, p.2).  Indigenous knowledge has been defined by United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization as the understanding of skills and philosophies developed by communities with long histories of interaction with natural surroundings (Indigenous Corporate Training, 2018). Approximately 370 million people worldwide identify as Indigenous, and although they makeup less than 5% of the worlds population, they hold immense power over the wellbeing of the natural resources humanity heavily relies on (International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2019).

Indigenous knowledge consists of  biological and social diversity, poverty eradication, conflict resolution, food security and serve as the  resilience of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to the impact of climate change. Their traditional knowledge of food sources can also help encourage diets that are diverse and sustainable, rather than processed, genetically modified, and wrapped in plastic like most of our food is today (2019). According to FoodPrint, in 2014, 63% of the 258 million tons of waste gathered in the US was of packaging materials for food (2018). With the implementation of environmentally sustainable diets, such as the ones suggested by Indigenous knowledge, we could eliminate a large portion of the worlds pollution that continues to damage our planet. Moreover, a report based on over two years of research expects that the experiences of Indigenous peoples has the potential to help achieve a manageable, hunger-free world (International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2019). To further support the argument that Indigenous knowledge may greatly impact the effects of globalization, many governments worldwide have already begun to integrate Aboriginal knowledge into their policies. In countries like Indonesia and Peru, organizations of Indigenous peoples are working to create agricultural  policies that take into consideration the land, resource rights and views of indigenous peoples, providing communities with land tenure options and offering farmers, fishers and forest peoples training in updated techniques to address the issue of climate change and forest management (2019). Furthermore, In places such as Panama and elsewhere, new technologies are being used to support sustainable land maintenance and recognition of traditional land ownership rights (2019).

However, Indigenous knowledge is more than the simple definition given by UNESCO. Indigenous Corporate Training create their own definition comprised of attributes and, “… quotes, expressions and proverbs from Indigenous leaders” (2018). Indigenous knowledge is adaptive. It is based on historical experiences but adapts to whatever changes the world may bring, as “adaptation is the key to survival” (2018). It is also holistic, meaning all parts of life are interconnected. Indigenous knowledge integrates all parts of life including spirituality, social interactions, and healing. Moreover, Indigenous knowledge is humble, as it does not attempt to control nature, but rather live in harmony with it (2018). It is also observant, as leaders watch over their environment, and make decisions for the wellbeing of their community, as well as what is best for future generations (2018). In addition, Indigenous knowledge is responsible, as they believe they are responsible for the maintenance and well-being of the nature around them (2018). With all that being said, these beliefs and ideals can be channeled into overcoming the issue of globalization in many ways. In terms of adaptation, communities should use their  technologies that have resulted from globalization to raise awareness on their histories, as well as the inequalities they face due to neo-colonialism. This goes hand in hand with the holistic and responsible aspects of Indigenous knowledge. According to Stobierski, globalization negatively affects the environment in the following ways; Increased greenhouse gas emissions due to long distance travel of goods, and habitat destruction due to the development of roads and bridges (2021). The increase in emissions, ocean acidification, and deforestation have lead to catastrophic loss in biodiversity worldwide. However, if more societies implemented Indigenous knowledge into their practices and policies, they would do everything in their power to restore their natural environments, and to significantly limit any future damage to the planet for the wellbeing of the global citizens and the future generations. This includes using their afore mentioned technologies to raise awareness on the catastrophic damage on the environment derivative of the implications of globalization.

The environmental impact of food packaging. FoodPrint. (2020, November 13). Retrieved April 2, 2022, from https://foodprint.org/issues/the-environmental-impact-of-food-packaging/

International Institute for Sustainable Development. (2019, August 9). Guest article: No Sustainable Development Without Indigenous Peoples: SDG knowledge hub: IISD. SDG Knowledge Hun. Retrieved, from http://sdg.iisd.org/commentary/guest-articles/no-sustainable-development-without-indigenous-peoples/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2019-08-09+-+SDG+Weekly+Update+AE&utm_content=2019-08-09+-+SDG+Weekly+Update+AE+CID_ae9eb352e4fe7de398ec3cc2dfd96846&utm_source=cm&utm_term=No+Sustainable+Development+Without+Indigenous+Peoples

Joseph, B. (2018, April 6). What does indigenous knowledge mean? A compilation of attributes. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. Retrieved from https://www.ictinc.ca/blog/what-does-indigenous-knowledge-mean

Moahi, K. (2007). Globalization, knowledge economy and the implication for indigenous knowledge. International Review of Information Ethics. Retrieved from http://www.i-r-i-e.net/inhalt/007/06-moahi.pdf

Stobierski , T. (2021, April 15). Effects of globalization on the environment. Business Insights Blog. Retrieved from https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/globalization-effects-on-environment

[mrmrswales]

Introducing THE EARTHSHOT PRIZE, the most prestigious global environment prize in history.

“The Earth is at a tipping point and we face a stark choice: either we continue as we are and irreparably damage our planet, or we remember our unique power as human beings and our continual ability to lead, innovate and problem-solve. People can achieve great things. The next ten years present us with one of our greatest tests – a decade of action to repair the Earth.“ - Prince William

Five, one million-pound prizes will be awarded each year for the next ten years, providing at least 50 solutions to the world’s greatest environmental problems by 2030.

The Earthshot Prize is about much more than awarding achievement – it is a decade of action to convene the environmental world with funders, businesses and individuals to maximise impact and take solutions to scale, to celebrate the people and places driving change; and to inspire people all over the world to work together to repair the planet.

The Earthshot Prize is centred around five ‘Earthshots’ – simple but ambitious goals for our planet which if achieved by 2030 will improve life for us all, for generations to come. Each Earthshot is underpinned by scientifically agreed targets including the UN Sustainable Development Goals and other internationally recognised measures to help repair our planet.

Together, they form a unique set of challenges rooted in science, which aim to generate new ways of thinking, as well as new technologies, systems, policies and solutions. By bringing these five critical issues together, The Earthshot Prize recognises the interconnectivity between environmental challenges and the urgent need to tackle them together.

THE EARTHSHOTS:

Protect & Restore Nature

Species all over the world face extinction as their homes are destroyed, but destroying nature threatens our lives too.

Forests and natural land are vital to human health and happiness, helping to prevent global warming and producing oxygen that we breathe. We must act now to protect our future.

We choose to repair and preserve the habitats that our animals need to live, from rainforests and grasslands, to wetlands, lakes and rivers.

We will award The Earthshot Prize to the most outstanding efforts to meet this challenge. To the conservationists who put a stop to poaching and illegal wildlife trafficking; to the landowners who create job opportunities for people who look after natural land; and to the entrepreneurs who help scale solutions for planting billions more trees that will secure the health and safety of generations to come.

Clean Our Air

Millions of children all over the world breathe toxic air every day, causing countless deaths that could be prevented.

We refuse to accept this – clean air and healthy lives are within our reach.We choose to end outdated transport that emits toxic fumes, remove pollution from the air using both technology and nature, and eliminate the burning of fossil fuels, choosing 100% renewable energy for everyone – from big cities to rural villages.

We will award The Earthshot Prize to the most outstanding efforts to meet this challenge. To the innovators who create job opportunities in green transport and clean energy; to the businesses who remove more pollution from the air than they put into it; and to the communities who let us heat our homes, travel to work and feed our families without polluting the air that we breathe.

Revive Our Oceans

Warmer temperatures, pollution and harmful fishing practices are having devastating impacts on the ocean, putting life underwater in jeopardy.

But this decade we can choose to make our ocean healthy.

We refuse to accept a world where turtles, dolphins and coral reefs vanish from our seas.We choose to bring forward a new era where everyone uses the ocean sustainably.

We will award The Earthshot Prize to the most outstanding efforts to meet this challenge. To the innovators who revolutionise our understanding of life underwater; to the leaders who end criminal and unsustainable fishing practices; and to the technologists who repair coral reefs and show us how to remove pollution from the ocean on a global scale.

We choose a future where our children can enjoy the ocean for years to come, and where the ocean can continue to sustain and enrich all life on Earth.

Build A Waste-Free World

The world we have built is not like this; we throw everything away, and this is harming our planet.But we have the power to build something better.

We choose to eliminate food waste, single-use packaging, and inspire a new generation of people, companies, and industries to reuse, repurpose, and recycle.

We will award The Earthshot Prize to the most outstanding efforts to meet this challenge. To the organisations that are eliminating single-use products and packaging; to the cities that revolutionise their waste management systems; and to the innovators who give new life to things destined for landfill.We choose to build a system that can work forever, where people everywhere can live safe, healthy and happy lives, without waste.

Fix Our Climate

Carbon in the atmosphere is making our planet warmer, to levels which threaten all life on Earth.

But it is not too late; if we act now, we can make the world a better, more sustainable home for everyone.We will combat climate change by removing more carbon from the atmosphere than we put into it and ensuring all countries reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. We will build defences to protect innocent people from climate driven disasters and crises.

We will award The Earthshot Prize to the most outstanding efforts to meet this challenge. To the cities or countries who reach net-zero emissions; to the leaders who create millions of new jobs in a carbon neutral economy; to the technologists who remove carbon from the atmosphere on a global scale, whilst protecting human life and nature.

We choose to fix our climate so that life everywhere can thrive for generations to come.

The Prize

Every year, The Earthshot Prize will be awarded to five inspiring solutions to each of the five Earthshots – simple but ambitious goals, underpinned by scientifically agreed targets, which if achieved by 2030 will improve life for us all, for generations to come.

Nominations will open on 1st November, with over 100 nominating partners from across the world being invited to submit nominations of those individuals, communities, businesses and organisations who could win The Earthshot Prize. Nominators will include our Global Alliance but also academic and non-profit institutions from across the world who have been selected for their ability to identify the most impactful solutions to the Earthshots.

The 5-stage prize process to select a winner for each Earthshot has been designed in partnership with the Centre for Public Impact and a range of international experts.

Nominations: The nominators will seek out solutions from across the globe that will help reach our Earthshots.

Screening: Nominations will be screened as part of an independent assessment process run by Deloitte, the implementation partner.

Shortlist: A distinguished panel of experts will support the judging process, making recommendations to The Earthshot Prize Council.

Selection: Prince William and The Earthshot Prize Councill select five winners.

Award Ceremony: The winners of The Earthshot Prize are announced at an awards ceremony which will take place in different cities across the world each year between 2021 and 2030.

The Earthshot Council:

Prince William, an advocate for conserving the natural world, he has led international efforts to crack down on the illegal wildlife trade, through United for Wildlife, helped deliver an ivory ban in the UK.

Shakira, Colombian singer-songwriter and multi-GRAMMY award winner

Sir David Attemborough, British broadcaster, writer, and naturalist.

Indra Nooyi, former chairman and CEO of PepsiCo.

Daniel Alves Da Silva, world renowned Brazilian football player.

Christina Figueres, Costan Rican citizen and an internationally recognized leader on climate change.

Yao Ming, founder of Yao Ming Foundation, global Ambassador for Special Olympics.

Cate Blanchett, internationally acclaimed and multi award-winning actress, producer, humanitarian, and dedicated member of the arts community.

Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, internationally human rights advocate.

Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, enviromental activist and member of Chad’s pastoralist Mbororo community.

Naoko Yamazaki, ex Astronaut, member of Space Policy Committe of Cabinet Office.

Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba group. He has been appointed by the United Nations Secretary as Co-chair of the UN High-Level panel on Digital Cooperation since 2018.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, economist and international development expert.