The Clinton Global Initiative is in its fifth year and was founded by President Clinton to get things done. Unlike other conferences where all you get is talk talk talk, the purpose of CGI is to bring organizations that work to tackle all the major issues from climate, hunger, health and poverty reduction together with the foundations and organizations who are ready and able to provide the resources to make it happen. Politics aside, President Clinton has achieved more in his post White House life than any other president in the last 50 years…and any intelligent human has to appreciate that.

As for our project The Water Planet Challenge, we are very excited about launching a program that will revolutionize the environmental youth service movement and mobilize an army of young people to solve these problems. When Vice President Al Gore accepted the academy award for An Inconvenient Truth, he said (and I paraphrase) we know what the solutions are we just lack the will to implement them. I believe that there are millions of youth in this world that have the will to implement them; they just lack the tools and knowledge to do it. By focusing our distribution through a network like Discovery Education that immediately puts us into over 60% of the middle and high schools in this country coupled with partnerships with all the best youth service orgs as well as promotion through Planet Green, we are going to give those millions of youth access to the tools and knowledge they need and take a great leap forward towards making this world a better place. My grandfather believed that youth could solve the problems facing our world and so do I; EarthEcho’s Water Planet Challenge will give them the power to do it.

As an example of its genuine commitment, Planet Green has also engaged its partners and renowned environmental advocacy and conservation organizations the Ocean Conservancy, Oceana, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to bring resources and information to this special month-long event.

Cheers

P

When one thinks of the pollution and devastation that a river many people call the ‘Mother Ganges’ is suffering from; it is a poignant reminder of the link between human culture and the environment.

These are important stories and I urge you all to watch them.

We live on a Water Planet. It is a unique place in that it is the only planet we know of that supports life. And that life is nurtured and sustained by water.

Vital to all life on Earth, water moves through our world in a constant state of flux. Cycling endlessly through ecosystems, flowing under the poles and through the atmosphere, changing states, laying waste to entire regions or achieving perfection in the shape of a single snowflake — water is a mystery and a miracle, a source of conflict and a cause for celebration, a blessing and, in its absence, a curse.

The story of our Water Planet has never been more crucial and relevant than it is today. In an era of climate change, desertification, sea level rise, acid rain, drought, falling water tables, dead zones, and widespread pollution, water quality and quantity is becoming more critical by the minute. The global forces of extraction and expansion are jeopardizing the very substance that supports life on our planet.

To follow Alexandra’s Expedition go to: www.bluelegacy.net

All of us!

Our friends at the Blue Frontier Campaign have organized an amazing 3-day summit that will bring together some of the top leaders from the marine community to discuss key ocean issues that need to be addressed by the Obama administration and state legislatures. The Blue Vision Summit in Washington, DC will take place from March 7-10, 2009. We urge anyone with an interest in ocean and coastal restoration and protection to register for this event. They are offering a student rate of $100, which includes all of the activities outlined in their program. The key speakers are: Dr. Jane Lubchenco (the new Administrator of NOAA), Rep. Sam Farr, Dr. Sylvia Earle, Bill McKibben and myself. You don’t want to miss this chance to have your voice heard and show your support for unity within the diverse community of marine conservationists, scientists and businesses.

For more information about the Blue Vision Summit, visit www.bluefront.org/bluevision/

1. I’m a junior in high school and I am interested in pursuing a career in oceanography. Since oceanography is a little more obscure than other areas of study, what can I do to become an oceanographer? How can I prepare myself and what schools/educational opportunities should I look for?

PC: First of all, good for you, oceanography is an amazing field and there are so many opportunities for discovery. Did you know that we have only explored around 5% of our oceans? Scientists discover new species almost every research trip they embark upon.

Oceanography is a science-heavy discipline and therefore, you should make sure that you are well grounded in the basic sciences and, to your best ability, the advanced and AP sciences as well. But don’t let classroom work dominate your life. Getting real world experience at local zoos, aquariums and research centers is also important. I would also stress the need to get outside. Whether you live on the ocean or not; never lose that sense of wonder and exploration. That curiosity that drives us to learn more about the world around us is nurtured by simple exploration of our backyards, our neighborhoods and our local natural resources. I was on an advisory council for the Smithsonian Natural History Museum and one of the scientists there has discovered several new species of insect in his own urban backyard!

As for formal education, I would suggest the University of Miami, Stanford, or Boston University and then consider doing graduate work at a place like Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. I can also recommend the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, where I went to school; they have an outstanding program and it is a wonderful place. It can be a little scary to go to a school outside the US but it is well worth it and St. Andrews would be my first pick.

2. As the scion of an oceanographically-oriented family, you must have been exposed to the sea and the wonders it can contain early on in life. Your grandfather was also a pioneer in the study of the oceans. This being said, do you regard your work as a continuation of that of two previous generations of Cousteaus? How has this affected the specific focuses of your studies into oceanography and your overall interest in the subject? Basically, how has being part of a legend affected your willingness to participate in it?

PC: My grandfather’s first forays into the world at large were very different than the ones that we embark on today. When my grandfather explored the oceans for the first time; it was a journey of discovery. Many of the things that they saw, few if anyone had ever seen before and they were the first to capture those images on film and share them with the wider world. Imagine all the things we take for granted today, Nemo the clownfish for example or even Flipper the dolphin. All of them were total mysteries to the world.

If you ever get a chance, I encourage you to watch two films made by my grandfather many years ago. “Silent World” and “World Without Sun” both won academy awards and showcase not only Jacques Cousteau but also my father as they captured images of the reefs off the coast of Southern France and the Red Sea in the 1950s and 1960s.

I remember growing up with these tales about my father’s adventures, about how awestruck he was by what he glimpsed as a young boy. I was raised on stories of when he took his first breath underwater and descended onto those reefs. I also was told of how devastated he was by what has happened to those very same reefs, which are now mere shadows of what they once were. I spent many hours of my own youth there, as well, diving off the coast of France as a young boy and I can no longer stand to go back. I find the barren and desolate underwater landscape so terrible.

It can break your heart when you see the beauty that was once there – that was captured by my grandfather on film – and know that it’s all gone now.

So at first it was about exploring our relationship with the environment for the first time. But as my father got engaged in the 60’s and 70’s it became more than just an exploration of nature and more an exploration of the world in the context of humanity’s relationship to it, as an integral and often powerful force for change.

As part of the third generation, both my sister and I see our role as a journey to understand not only the relationship between humans and nature, but our role in being stewards of this planet.

Continuing the legacy has always been part of our lives and something we have embraced wholeheartedly. But there is something else, and this is very important, we are not part of that legacy just because of our names. Of course I am proud to have the Cousteau name. But I’m not a Cousteau only because of my name.

The fact is that the Cousteau spirit of conservation and care for the environment was taught to me. It lives on through me because of my actions not my birth certificate.

I grew up hearing about how important the work was. Sitting with my grandfather and listening to his life’s stories – hearing the urgency in his voice – being inspired by the passion my own father had for taking action for a better future — that was instrumental to my becoming the person I am today.

You could call it a family legacy or just good teaching. Regardless, I am a firm believer that if we are to build the sustainable future we all dream of, we must do it together. Each of us…all of us…making a positive difference; that is a legacy that we can all share in.

3. Out of all the environmental crises that are happening in the world, which one do you think requires the most attention?

PC: Without question, I think that the excessive output of carbon into the atmosphere is the most troubling. The reason I say that is because carbon is the leading cause of climate change, which is a global crisis unlike any we have ever faced. Climate change or global warming as it is also called is a crisis because it is changing our oceans which are the primary driver of our climate.

As climate or weather changes, the domino effects will be felt around the world. For example, water scarcity is likely going to be the defining cause of conflict and mass migration of people in the 21st century. In large part this will be caused by the changing weather patterns of the world which is being caused by changing currents and rising temperatures and sea levels in the ocean which is being caused by global warming. That is a bit of a simplification but you get the idea, everything is connected to everything else on this planet. But the excessive output of carbon into the atmosphere is also responsible for another very scary problem that has nothing to do with climate change…ocean acidification. OA as we call it, is caused not by rising temperatures but purely by the absorption of carbon by the oceans.

The absorption of carbon by the ocean causes the oceans get more acidic and the creatures in the ocean that build shells, such as coral, shellfish, mollusks, even smaller organisms such as pteropods (a small free swimming snail that form the basis of many ocean food chains) are unable to build their shells and thus survive. If this continues it could mean the wholesale collapse of many ocean eco-systems which would have disastrous effects on the planet. Imagine, two billion people rely on fish for their primary source of protein today. If fisheries collapse because they have no basic food source, those people would starve and many would go to war to try and feed themselves. That is just one example and the others are just as serious.

Don’t get depressed yet, there is hope and I believe that we have not passed the point of no return. We have a chance to change this world and it is up to us to do it. The last 50 years have seen the greatest amount of destruction of this planet and it is the next 50 years, OUR 50 years that will decide its fate. That means demanding of our politicians that they take these problems seriously and a willingness to make changes in our lives. Ask yourself, do we really need a bigger house, or a bigger car? A comfortable life is what we all aspire to, that is human nature, but a comfortable life should not be defined by excess and greed but by living in gracious and sustainable harmony with the planet.

4. What is the most exciting thing you have done during your expeditions?

PC: Without a doubt diving with Great Whites was the most exciting thing I have ever done. Despite the media hype, sharks aren’t mindless killers and being in a shark cage face to face with a 15-foot Great White is easily one of the most incredible experiences in the world and will change your perception of nature and humankind’s place in it. Contrary to popular belief divers almost never report coming out of the water in fear but rather with a sense of awe and sheer appreciation at the wonder, grace and beauty of these much maligned creatures.

5. What are the biggest issues facing the ocean today?

PC: I have to go with my answer to question 3. That is precisely why climate change is such a problem, because of how it is changing the oceans. The oceans are the life support system of this planet and as they regulate our climate, things such as rainfall are affected and thus food crops are affected and people go hungry which has huge consequences for global commerce, security etc. That is just one example but you get the idea.

Change in our oceans will cause drastic and very serious crisis around the world, not to mention ocean acidification which has the potential to collapse critical eco-systems and species populations; everything from coral reefs to shellfish by preventing them from building their shells. However, it is important to note that scientists have consistently found that the key to helping these creatures survive is to give them the healthiest and safest environments in which to live. For example, coral reefs in a pristine environment are much more likely to adapt to rising temperatures than those that are already stressed from pollution and overfishing. That is good news, and means that we must re-double our efforts to protect our environment.

6. Which of these issues have affected advocacy the most? Save the Whales gets a lot of attention, perhaps because it’s such a photographic cause. Where do you think the most effective advocacy is happening? The least?

PC: Wow, that is a tough question. I think that the most effective advocacy is that which happens in conjunction with industry. Yes, the big charismatic mega-fauna (as the whales and dolphins and elephants and panda bears are referred to) are very effective in grabbing the attention of the public but as the saying goes, money talks and no long term solution is effective unless it takes into consideration the needs of people. Thus some of the most effective solutions are those that don’t just prohibit people from exploiting natural resources but help them find alternatives to doing so.

A great example happening in Florida in the 90’s when gillnet fishing (a very destructive form of fishing) was banned along the coast. Scientists devised a way for these out of work fisherman to grow clams in baskets along the shore. This simple form of aquaculture was even more lucrative than gillnet fishing and not destructive to the environment. In a short period of time, the state of Florida went from being last in clam production in the US to being first.

7. What are the most exciting advances in oceanographic knowledge?

PC: I think it would be hard to name just one. We are learning so many every day. Unfortunately I would probably have to say that the advances I am most familiar with have to do with the dire news that we are hearing every day. How ocean acidification is a real problem and what it is doing, or how fish stocks are collapsing. These are scary things, but oceanographers are on the front lines of not only the discovery of these problems but many are also working hard on solving them. The first step to solving a problem…is knowing it exists. While we may face many challenges, the most exciting advances are those that are giving us the knowledge to tackle them.

8. Did you know from a young age that you would become an oceanographer?

PC: I have to be honest, I am not an oceanographer and contrary to popular belief, neither was my grandfather nor my father. First and foremost, they were communicators like me. I have the privilege of working with some of the best oceanographers in the world but I am not one. I am a communicator and an explorer and I have always had a fascination with story and how to share the importance of taking care of our world through media.

That is not to say that I do not enjoy science, I do and I have the utmost respect for those that pursue that field I just realized that my passion lay in sharing these stories with the world. But make no mistake, we need as many scientists as we can get and I encourage you to pursue your passion. That being said, I think it is increasingly important for every profession, scientist, doctor, oil tycoon, TV executive, teacher it doesn’t matter, to take an interest in the world around them realize that no matter what we do we can all be part of pursuing a better world.

P.S. When I was little I actually wanted to be a fireman.

9. Can you tell me what you do to prevent stings from the microscopic larvae of jellyfish particularly Thimble Jellyfish?

PC: Whenever I am diving in an area that I know has jellyfish, the most effective method to prevent getting stung is to wear some sort of full body suit, either a thin lycra one or a neoprene wetsuit. That being said, few things are offer 100% protection. If you do get stung, the best thing to do is to wash it with regular vinegar IMMEDIATELY. Do not wash it with fresh water! That will make matters worse, you can rinse with salt water, but never with fresh water as it will make the poison react even more strongly. There is an old wives tale that peeing on the sting will help…don’t believe it. Use vinegar or lemon or lime juice, any organic acid does the trick and if it is really bad, seek medical attention asap.

When you talk about the Warped Eco Initiatives, you have to talk about Erin Gorski. Erin has been managing the Warped Eco Initiative for the past few years. She has been dumpster diving, organizing volunteers and pushing venues to recycle all on her own. She wakes up at 7AM to set up and she breaks down her tent at 7PM. There is nothing Erin won’t do to improve our planet and she is out at the VANS Warped Tour with a strong message.

This summer EarthEcho sent out someone to help Erin communicate the objectives of the Warped Eco Initiatives to the bands and fans and to discuss how these eco friendly practices of the Tour can be utilized at home. So who was EarthEcho’s earth friendly rockstar? Tara Redavid. Tara takes saving the planet very seriously. This dedicated vegan loves to talk about the millions of ways we can take simple actions to save the planet and believe me, Tara is all about ACTION. Erin and Tara are always searching for new ways to engage people to take eco friendly action, which is why I write to you today.

Erin and Tara have entered a contest at ideablob to raise money for the Warped Eco Initiative, so that it can expand its efforts out on Tour. Below is all the information you need to vote for their project.

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The Warped Eco Initiative has made it to the FINALS for a $10,000 grant from Ideablob and we need your help to make sure we win!

Here’s how to help us out:

1. Go to the “Warped Eco Initiative: Change is a Sound” Ideablob page(http://ideablob.com/ideas/3622-Change-is-a-Sound-The-Warped-)
2. Click the “Vote!” icon on the right hand side of the page
3. If you do not have an Ideablob account, you need to register but it only takes a few worthwhile moments!
4. Activate your account via an email sent to your registered email account
5. Return back to the “Warped Eco Initiative: Change is a Sound” Ideablob page(http://ideablob.com/ideas/3622-Change-is-a-Sound-The-Warped-)
6. CLICK VOTE!!

If you have more than one email address, you can vote from each of them!

The Warped Eco Initiative began in 2005 and has grown to include a volunteer driven recycling program, solar powered stage, solar canopies, biodiesel fueling, compostable/reusable dishware in catering, eco-driven contests, a partnership with Earth Echo International, band volunteer participation program, and more!

—-Stats for 2008—–

Biodiesel-
Bio-diesel Fuel was used in all production buses and trucks.
-103,290 B20 gallons pumped on site
-Straight Diesel usage reduced by 21,858 gallons (20%)
-Used in 18 Trucks, 18 Buses, 3 Generators, 2 Mules
-CO2 emissions reduced by 333,028 lbs.

Recycling-
– 40,000 lbs of recyclables collected
– Recyclables account for a CO2 reduction of 400,000 lbs
– All Tour ad posters were printed on 100% recycled paper
– Tour books for production and bands were printed on 30% recycled paper
– Over 1,200 batteries were saved from potentially causing groundwater contamination and leaking heavy metals
– Hundreds of cell phones were collected for “Cell Phones for Soldiers”

Warped Tour Volunteer Clean-Up Day in Monterey-
– On August 12th, The VWT Eco Initiative brought 150+ bands, sponsors and crew members to work with Earth Echo International and the NOAA’s Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in an effort to impact the local environment positively
– Groups worked to cleanup beach trails, post anti littering signage, reintroduce native plant life in wetland areas by planting over 300 indigenous trees and clear seaweed from harbor and beach areas.

Solar Power-
This summer, the Tour continued to expand on it’s solar initiatives by building a solar stage for the Kevin Says Stage as well as utilizing solar panels (canopies) to power the entire Non- Profit Area
— Solar Stage used an estimated 662kWh of solar produced power.
-Solar Canopies had a production capacity of more than 200KW.
- These also hosted many smaller scale, solar powered performances from bands like The Academy Is, Tat, Panima,Between the Trees, and The Color Fred.
— The solar use / production equaled the averaged per household electricity usage in 2001 of 888kWh / month.
- Between the two, add in an estimated savings of an additional 380 gallons of diesel, resulting in a CO2 emission reduction of 8,360lbs.

That is 408,360 pounds of ACTUAL carbon reduction…not carbon credits or offsets but CO2 you have helped divert from the atmosphere by recycling with us and supporting the solar stages this summer.

In conclusion: Bio-diesel+ Solar Power+ Recycling=742,218 lbs =total carbon emissions saved by the Warped Eco Initiative this summer.

The future is bright for us and we need your help getting there! Please take a few seconds out of your day to vote for the Warped Eco Initiative on Ideablob!

“In the end, we will conserve only what we love. We love only what we understand. We will understand only what we are taught.”