Canadian Trees in Space

Nov 16, 2009

Here we are busy planting trees by the thousands in our Royal Municipality and feeling good and then someone goes and ups the ante!  (We did have our suspicions about Green Tree of Tulsa who are doing such an awesome job)

Perhaps our future will include planting trees on other moons and planets to make a favourable atmosphere.  If you can dream it, you can do it!

 

The space shuttle Atlantis was launched Monday afternoon on its final flight of the year, carrying 24 Canadian tree saplings.

The 11-day mission will see Atlantis take some big spare parts to the orbiting International Space Station.

Atlantis's six astronauts will unload about 13,600 kilograms of pumps, tanks, other parts and science experiments.

The shuttle's payload includes 24 willow saplings, which will be part of a Canadian experiment to help determine the role gravity plays in the formation of different kinds of wood.

The experiment, known as APEX-Cambium (Advanced Plant EXperiments on Orbit), is led by professor Rodney Savidge of the University of New Brunswick and funded by the Canadian Space Agency. The experiment will be conducted on the ISS by Canadian astronaut Robert Thirsk.

The plant growth will take place in a layer of cells called the cambium, which eventually forms the tree's wood.

The parts of a tree that aren't vertical, such as horizontal branches, grow one type of wood on one side and a different type of wood on the other. Botanists call this "reaction wood," and it's thought to be a response to gravity, although this hasn't been proven.

Using a special tool developed for the project, Thirsk will make loops in the stems of 12 trees, leaving another six to grow naturally for comparison. After 30 days, the samples will be harvested and preserved for their journey back to Earth, where Savidge will analyze the results. The space samples will also be compared with samples grown in a lab under the same conditions on Earth.

"The idea is for the only variable to be weight," Savidge said in a CSA statement.

Play It Again, SAM

Nov 03, 2009

 

 

  

The Canuck Nanooks would like to pause and celebrate another environmental hero:  Project Polar Bears Platinum Sponsor:  Lowepro

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Going beyond developing world class camera and digital accessory bags used by photographers around the world, this company has fully embraced their part in environmental stewardship.  “What’s the use of making long-lasting products if the subject matter keeps disappearing?” is a thought provoking quote from their website.

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From products that reduce environmental impact, championing of nonprofit organizations, to supporting and encouraging youth to dare to create a greener future.  Lowepro has got it covered A-Z (and in Canada Eh – Zed).

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Our THANKS for the gifts of camera & case and the fantastic carry bags (which we can attest hold many kilograms of environmental information and a snack or two), and highlighting the PPB teams on their Website.

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Check out their Website for more information, great products and some breathtaking photography!

 

Update: Canada's Most Wanted: Highlighting Environmental Super Heroes

Nov 02, 2009

Superhero Thought:  If you’re not recycling you’re throwing it all away.  Keep Eco-librium in your life, recycle!

 

This Week’s Environmental Superhero is the Manitoba Product Stewardship Corporation.

 

Manitoba is recycling more than ever, about 100 pounds per person!  There are over 200 community recycling programs in our province.  

 

Manitoba’s recycling system is unique to North America in that our system collects a wide range of household packaging and paper. Last year we recycled approximately 70% of our packaging and paper.  

 

Manitoba Product Stewardship Corporation (MPSC) was introduced on January 1, 1995, to encourage the expansion of convenient and efficient recycling services across Manitoba.

 

MPSC is an independent, non-profit organization representing the interests of all sectors of Manitoba, including consumers, industry, municipalities and governments.

 

MPSC is a statutory corporation that operates at "arm's length" from the provincial government, and is currently funded solely by the 2 cent levy on all beverage containers (excluding dairy) sold in Manitoba.

 

MPSC is about more than just recycling. MPSC programs encompass Municipal Residential Recycling, Promotion and Education, Technical Support and Consulting, Waste Reduction Initiatives, and Research and Development.

 

Each resident can purchase an unlimited number of Blue Boxes for $7.50 per bin.  All you do is place the accepted material for recycling in the box.  Don’t sort, don’t tie, just empty and toss in loose.

 

The collected material goes to a sorting facility and is baled.  The material is then sold to manufacturers who process them into an amazing variety of new products.

 

Aluminum cans can become lawn chairs, screen doors, pie plates, car parts and more aluminum cans.  Recycled plastics, such as milk jugs and soft drink bottles, can become t-shirts, hats, carpeting, sleeping bags and plastic lumber.  Fibre products, paper, can become other paper products and can be used in insulation.

 

We have programs for used tires (in the US about 1 tire per person is discarded each year, that’s over 300 million tires) In fact, since 1995, over 93,000 tons of scrap tires have been diverted from landfills in Manitoba. That is equivalent to over 7.5 million passenger tires! 

Used concrete is recycled and even your Christmas tree can be chipped while you wait and then taken home for mulch on the garden.

 

Ecoville is a website that many communities are utilizing to show the public where they can access all aspects of green community living.  Check and see if yours is listed.

 

 

http://myecoville.com/ca/mb/home

Update: Everything Old is New Again

Nov 01, 2009

 

Superhero Quote:  No PANE no gain!

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 A Glass Act

 

We are presently negotiating with a local window company, Polar Windows, for second hand windows to build a greenhouse and potting shed. They are actively collecting good quality panes.   The potting shed will be raffled off to raise funds for our Polar Bear Conservation Fund and the greenhouse will join our green gazebo as a visual reminder that recycling is practical.

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We plan to build the base from reclaimed stone we  gathered from the ditch; the walls will be reused lumber (such as old cedar decks); and we  have been offered some doors we will cut down to make 2-part Dutch doors.  Our mom says she will help us etch polar bears onto the glass.

Since we are quickly entering into “snow” season this project will be carried over into the spring.

 

 

'Project: How Green Is Your Winter?'

Oct 31, 2009

Project: More Cents for the Environment

Oct 31, 2009

Superhero thought:  It makes great CENTS to CHANGE our environment on penny at a time!

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Coins have a lifespan of 30 or more years, unlike bills.  An average home has about $90 of stashed coinage.  If we were to put even 10% of the estimated $10 billion in coins hidden in USA sofas to use this would translate into the following estimated environmental saving equivalencies:

·        Water from 82 million showers

·        Energy from 4.1 million 60-watt light bulbs

·        Carbon emission reduction from 12,619 cars for a year

·        5.3 million pick-up truck loads of waste material

 

Schools in our community and the city are once again participating in our Pennies for Polar Bears.  Participants are supplied with a recycled 5 gallon H₂O container or may supply and decorate their own.

Each 5-gallon container has the following impact:

·        H₂O consumption 12,952 liters

·        Energy 255.7 kWh

·        Geological Waste 19,9888 lbs

 

To learn how much you can cash in and help the earth use the following calculator at Change for our Earth. Com

 

Project: Alum Thinking of is Being Green

Oct 31, 2009

Superhero Insight:  If you can put the can to your lips, you can put it in the recycling bin! 

 

 This is a carry forward project from last year.  We are excited to add more businesses and schools to our aluminum collection force.

 

Aluminum is the 3^rd more abundant element in the earths crust.  It is widely used to dye fabrics, clarify sugar, and is even an ingredient in baking powder!  However, a tremendous amount of energy is required to harvest it from the original ore.  Making 1 pound of aluminum (about 34 cans) from bauxite ore requires 27000 kilojoules of energy!

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Aluminum does not decompose quickly, and the unused metal ends up as waste disposal.  The amount of scrap aluminum is rapidly increasing while the availability of the natural ore is decreasing.  The average lifespan of an aluminum can tossed on a roadside is 100 years!  Because of this there is much interest in the recycling of commercial products to conserve resources, minimize waste disposal and prevent pollution in the environment.

 

Recycling an aluminum can uses 95% less energy than initially creating it from raw materials and has considerable benefits.  Reprocessing 1 can saves enough energy to run a TV for 3 hours and a 100 watt light bulb for 4 hours, while recycling 40 can conserves the same amount of energy as 1 gallon of gasoline!

 

IF YOU KNEW THAT....

·        100% of recycled aluminum cans end up as another aluminum can in as little as 60 days

·        An aluminum can has no limit to the number of times it can be recycled

·        Aluminum is the most recyclable of all materials; it is four times more valuable than other recycled consumer materials

·        Throwing away a single aluminum can is like pouring out six ounces of gasoline

 

….Would you still throw that can in the trash?

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According to Science Direct, Atmospheric Environment, aluminum production requires large amounts of electrical energy, leading to emission as much as 14 tons of carbon dioxide per ton of aluminum.  The Planet Magazine of Western Washington University’s Huxley College of the Environment places that number at 8 tones with a more efficient approach to primary smelting.

 

Our school recycling program is into its third year (Rebekahs project from her return from Churchill in ’07); at both the elementary and junior/senior high; The Assiniboine Park Zoo (see Environmental Heroes) actively participates in all recycling; our local animals shelters use this as a fund raiser and our hospitals are also realizing returns for funding those little ‘extras’ for patient care.  In each school we speak, or where the Canuck Nanooks have a CO2 program in place we advocate for aluminum recycling.  Winnipeg and many of the surrounding communities also has a ‘Blue Box’ recycling program where homeowners place ALL recyclable materials in a blue box for weekly pick up.

 

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Since it takes 2-4 cans to make ONE PENNY the monetary return is small.  But if we consider the Environmental Impact the cost is great

Project: Boo at the Zoo

Oct 31, 2009

Rachael & Madison arrive on CO2 friendly brooms

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Superhero Lucky Tip #13 On The 31st: Treat yourself to lots of goodies this Halloween, but the trick is to make sure you can still buckle up your superhero uniform...'No Cape, No Cape!!!' (See Mr. Incredible for de-Briefing)

 

Boo at the Zoo is celebrating its 14^th year as a major fundraiser for the Zoological Society of Manitoba.  There are over 20 different themed areas of spooky, scary, silly stuff.  In recognition of the Year of the Carbon Footprint participants were encouraged to spot Big Foot and the Canadian Yeti.  We are ecstatic that the 2009 funds are being dedicated to the Polar Bear Conservation Fund in tribute to Debby the Polar Bear who passed away a year ago at the wonderful age of 42.

 

Kat Grass fundraiser

 

The Canuck Nanooks, aided and abetted by MAAN, participated for the full 14 days.  We had an indoor booth at the EdBOOcation trailer, and a large outdoor display.  Over 10,000 people participate in this yearly event and we talked, and talked, and talked to as many as possible!

 

 Rachael, using a battery free flashlight, highlights Polar Bears and CO2 reduction

 

 

Our tables had 2 aspects. On one side we encouraged families and friends to reduce their carbon footprint by embracing 5 simple steps in our ‘Good Neighbour Pledge.’ We spoke with thousands of individuals, and were excited to see that families demonstrated a personal care for being a good steward of the earth. Many parents took time to explain the importance of doing these 5 simple activities to their children (They should have been directing our tables)! A fridge size copy of the pledge was made available as a reminder.  For those up to the challenge we had a handout with 14 more planet friendly steps.  Those families with a real ‘green streak’ were directed to the website for a list of an additional 50 ways to ‘Green Up.’  Many embraced the challenge and shared their efforts as individuals, school teachers, and community educators.

 

 education material, photo's from Churchill, and our fuzzy Bearbehindium

 

Manitoba Hydro, a world leader in eco friendly power and public education, once again supplied the team with fantastic education material:  Power Smart Guides, Home Insulation programs, Energy Efficient Lighting and the always popular coupons for CFL bulbs.  (Extra polar hugs to Jackie Britton)  Manitoba Hydro offers a comprehensive Energy Evaluation to both the public and business.

 

 Mouse Meets Bear in CO2 Talks

 

A second table was devoted to raising funds for the new polar bear enclosure at the Assiniboine Park Zoo as well as Polar Bears International. Every dollar donated won an entry into our ‘Fun in the Sun’ and ‘Polar Bears Everywhere Throw’ raffles. Both these and the Kat Grass Bags encouraged a fun way to be environmentally active and aware!

 

 "Witch" one has the bigger paws, and which one leaves the smaller CO2 footprint

 

Kids and parents alike were excited to find out that there are simple ways they can embrace to be environmental superheroes! Kids really enjoyed looking at bear photos and walking in the ‘shoes’ (paws) of an average size polar bear. ‘Boo at the Zoo’ regulars were also thrilled to see the role of their impact over the last 2 years. (about 30 million pounds!)

 

 

 

More hugs to the Assiniboine Park Zoo (‘specially to Scott Gray, Tricialynn Zacharias and Julie Eccles) for providing this venue and participating in the dress up as much as we were!

 

 

Pledged CO2 reduction for the 14 nights at Boo at the Zoo

 

10,573,860 pounds!  Yes  10½ million!!!!

Black Bear Protests Global Warming

Oct 23, 2009

We suspect what appears to be a random interaction between humans and wildlife is actually a statement by Wisconsin black bears as to what lengths bears will have to take to keep their cool!

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Read On

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Small-town grocery shoppers were treated to quite a scene last Thursday when a black bear ambled into a Wisconsin grocery store and headed straight for the liquor department. The 125-pound, five-foot-tall bear climbed up 12 feet onto a shelf in the beer cooler, where it sat for about an hour as human customers evacuated and wildlife officials convened. Eventually, the bear was tranquilized and removed -- and it hadn't had a sip of booze. Store workers say it seemed content to just chill with the beer. And it caused no damage, leaving nothing but a wet bear-nose print on the beer cooler's glass door.

Center for Biological Diversity: Polar Bear Habitat Protection...Almost

Oct 22, 2009

Good news: In response to a lawsuit brought by the Center for Biological Diversity, the federal government today proposed to protect more than 200,000 square miles of coastal lands and waters along the north coast of Alaska as critical habitat for the polar bear.

Critical habitat is one of the most important provisions of the Endangered Species Act -- species with critical habitat designated are twice as likely to be recovering as those without it. So today's announcement is a crucial step forward in protecting polar bears.

However, at the same time the Interior Department is proposing to designate polar bear critical habitat, it is also authorizing oil development in these very same areas. Earlier this week, Interior approved oil-company plans for exploratory drilling in the polar bear's habitat in the Beaufort Sea, and is considering a similar drilling proposal in the neighboring Chukchi Sea.

Please take a moment now to write Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and let him know that polar bear critical habitat must be truly protected -- not sacrificed to oil companies.

Sample letter:

Subject: Protect Polar Bear Habitat

Dear Secretary Salazar,

I am writing to urge you to protect polar bear critical habitat. While the proposal to designate critical habitat for the polar bear is an important and positive step, your recent approval of oil drilling in polar bear habitat threatens to completely undermine polar bear protection efforts. Please designate all areas used by polar bears on land and ice as critical habitat, and permanently protect these important areas rather than sacrificing them to oil companies. 

 

Please take action by January 1, 2010.

Update: Everything Old is New Again

Oct 21, 2009

September 26-27 is the city of Winnipeg’s ‘giveaway weekend’.  Residents are encouraged to put reusable, but unwanted, items out on the curbside for anyone who wants them.   With a little ingenuity and a friend with a pick-up you can pretty much furnish your university apartment for free!  Participation in the program grows each year.

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(if they start offering cars we'll have to lock up our father)

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 Items you can find:

· books, CDs and DVDs
· furniture and small appliances
· sports equipment and toys
· tools
· yard and gardening equipment
· kitchen gadgets, dishes, cutlery, pots and pans
· unwanted gifts
· construction material including drywall and hardware
· electronics
· clothing
· paint

Project: EnvioSpy

Oct 20, 2009

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Superhero Insight

 

“The more slowly trees grow at first, the sounder they are at the core, and I think the same is true of human beings.”

                                                       Thoreau

 

 

 

If we want children to love the earth before asking them to save it we need to actively reward GREEN behaviours and avoid ecophobia.

 

The third week of every October sees Canadians participating in Waste Reduction Week.  There are three targeted audiences:  schools; local governments; and small to medium sized businesses.

 

In 2008 Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street, became the official spokes-Muppet.

 

Resource Conservation Manitoba is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that has programs focusing on sustainable transportation, waste reduction, climate change, and sustainable living.  Living Green, Living Well is an on-line guide to sustainable living in Manitoba.

 

The Canuck Nanooks have partnered with Resource Conservation Manitoba for Waste Reduction Week.  We are excited to be EnviroSpys.  For this week we will actively prowl the corridors of our schools looking for students committing Acts of Green-ness and award them with environmentally friendly prizes.

 

This is a link to a public service announcement regarding WRWeek.

 

 

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Waster+reduction+week%2C+PSA+%231+2009&search_type=&aq=f

Fundraising Projects

Oct 13, 2009

Education to inspire action is a main emphasis of the Canuck Nanooks.  We realize that affirmative action requires funding.

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While we participate for the 14 days of Boo at the Zoo we offer a few fundraisers:

 

KAT GRASS

An environmentally friendly oat grass, grown by our neighbour, you plant and grow indoors to entice your cats to eat this, rather than your prized Azaleas.  We package it in cloth bags we sew from recycled material. It comes in Snack Pac size and a larger bag that last approximately a year with a multiple cat family.

 

 

 

"Polar Bears Everywhere" Throw:

Walmart generously donated material for us to sew this warm and cozy throw.  The snow has already arrived in 'Winterpeg'.  This and long underwear are required to survive the season!

 

 

Summer Fun:

It's not always -40 celcius;  in summer we actually see +30!  (no, not just watching the weather channel in Florida).  For our hot prairie summer this raffle package includes fun outdoor toys, paint ball coupons, and a free family rental for a canoe to enjoy one or more of our 100,000 lakes.

 

 

Funding supports our Polar Bear Conservation Fund and PBI

 

 

 

Project: Polar Bears 'Eh to Zed'

Oct 13, 2009

 

 

Superhero Insight:  A picture is worth a thousand words . . . unless it's an English paper assignment!

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Polar Bears "Eh to Zed" is one of our teaching videos we present to schools.  It uses each letter of the alphabet to highlight a bear factoid.  We have a fun environmental quiz at the end.

 

This presentation has been accessed, via the Web, throughout the world.  Locations include Canada, USA, India, Japan, Indonesia, South Africa, Central Europe, Britian, Russia, Romania, Turkey, the United Arab Emirate, Argentina and Columbia.

 

We are always designing and fine tuning videos to reach target ages and individuals. 

 

Giant Polar Bear Hugs to Robert & Carolyn Buchanan for being so generous with their amazing photographs!

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=CA&hl=en&v=plrF-9iiKTE

Manitoba Arctic Ambassadors Network

Oct 12, 2009

Superhero Tip:  Don’t reinvent the wheel; make it better

 

 

Newsflash!  Superheroes Join Forces in New Global Network!

“One small step for mankind, one giant leap for MAAN!”

 

 

 Logo:  Sarah Watkins Leadership Camp Ambassador '04

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Polar Bears International has sent Ambassadors from Winnipeg to Churchill since 2004.  Upon their return, these individuals happily set about to share their message and inspire their peers.  A common re-entry problem is losing momentum or feeling overwhelmed with just what to do and where to do it.

 

The Solution:  Manitoba Arctic Ambassadors Network

 

Winnipeg and surrounding Municipal alumni have joined together and formed MAAN.  Monthly meetings take place at the Polar Bear Den; PBI Headquarters at the Assiniboine Park Zoo, to brainstorm forward actions plans and support each others endeavours. Action, Education, and Communication form the pillars of the organization.

 

Rebekah is a ’07 graduate and founding member and Rachael just returned from PBI Leadership Camp two weeks ago. It seemed a ‘natural’ to join Super Forces with the Alumni and Project Polar Bear.

 

With PBI at the Centre we are building a global network of Polar Enthusiasts.  Fresh minds supply fresh ideas which are, surprisingly, refreshing! 

 

The alumni spoke and did a PowerPoint presentation to the ’09 Leadership Camp members.  A week later the NEW & Old(er and Wiser) Ambassadors shared with 17 Keepers, Curators and Educators.  They related personal experiences and presented ideas to the adults to inspire youths around the globe. There was a short video of the Canuck Nanooks projects.

 

The Alumni assisted the Canuck Nanooks in packing our environmentally friendly “KAT GRASS” and will join with us to educate and fundraise for the 14 days of “Boo at the Zoo”.  This partnership supplies the team with enthusiastic voices from amazing individuals who have experienced climate change and Polar Bears firsthand.

 

Teen Ambassador encounters her first bear

 

PBI '09 Ambassadors listen to Manitoba Arctic Ambassadors Network (MAAN)

Project: Pledge for the Leg(islature)

Oct 12, 2009

Superhero Quote # 4586

 

"It is not the function of our government to keep the citizens from falling into error; it is the function of the citizen to keep the government from falling into error"

         Justice Robert H. Jackson

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The Legislative Assembly of Manitoba is composed of 57 members who are elected by the public and represent the entire province. One of the roles of a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) is to voice concerns on behalf of constituents, represent viewpoints and assist in problem solving.  They also play a role in researching, and writing laws for the province.

 

As constituents, the Canuck Nanooks have communicated with our MLA both in person and writing.  While understanding that democracy is a SLOW process we are eager to embrace any means to encourage environmental stewardship.

 

In August we contacted each member of the Legislature and briefly explained the threat to the North and our beloved Polar Bears.  Included with each paper-less letter (yippee for email!) we enclosed our Good Neighbour Pledge for the Honourable Member to sign and return, electronically, to us.

 

Our goal is a 100% response (Dear Member, if you are reading this at the moment you will probably be receiving a phone call in the next 24 hours regarding your reply or lack thereof).  We believe the Members of the Cabinet, Members of the Opposition, and Government Backbenchers will then take opportunity to raise these concerns during Question Period; Letters of Petition; or by individual Member Statements.

 

 

The Centre for Biological Diversity has presented a strong legal force since 2001 in fighting for protection of the Polar Bear (and many other species).  Letters supporting greater legislative protection of the bears have come from more than 1,300 scientists, 53 law professors, eight senators, and more than 130 conservation organizations and countless individuals.

 

These elected officials represent us.  Write, phone, or talk with either your Senator or Member of the Legislature to let them know your concerns.

 

If you don’t voice your Concerns, they cannot be the voice of Change!

 

 

 

Our Cover Letter:

 

Dear Sir/Madame

We are the Canuck Nanooks, a team of fours sisters, who have partnered with Polar Bears International for Project Polar bear. This is an initiative to encourage youth teams across North America to educate the public on CO₂ reduction using the polar bear as a rallying point.  Last year our multiple projects realized a twelve million pound (6 tonne) reduction.

Mounting atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide are contributing to the increase of global temperatures. Thinning sea ice, increasing temperatures and rising sea levels present strong evidence that temperatures in the arctic are escalating. This causes the ice to freeze later and melt sooner, giving the polar bears only a short period of time to hunt and feed themselves and results in the death of many. Scientific studies show that within 50 years half our polar bear population will be gone and by the end of the century they will be extinct.

There are 20,000 –25,000 polar bears world wide with 60% of them residing in Northern Manitoba. Manitoba is in a unique position to lead Canada in the conservation of this iconic bear and keep the ‘true North, strong and free.’

The “Good Neighbour Pledge” is comprised of five simple actions individuals can take to reduce their CO₂ production by 4,330 lbs/ 1968 kg.  We challenge you, our leaders and our voice, to sign this pledge and prevent the loss of our polar bears and make our country a “greener” place.

Our goal is a 100% response from both our Members of the Legislature and our Members of Parliament.  Your example will encourage Canadians to take action.

“I am one, but I am still one.  I cannot do everything, but still I can do something.  And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something I can do.”  (E.E. Hale)

Please make a copy of the pledge and have yourself and staff members sign and return to us in a PDF format.

With giant Polar Bear Hugs

Rebekah, Rachael, Miranda & Madison Vickery 

 

 

Important Update: Centre for Biological Diversity

Sep 14, 2009

This update from the Centre for Biological Diversity

 

In his last days in office, former President George W. Bush pushed through a plan to sell off almost all of Alaska's Arctic waters to oil companies. Now Interior Secretary Ken Salazar is perilously close to following the Bush administration's roadmap for destruction of America's Arctic in the name of oil-company profits. The Bush Arctic-drilling plan would lead to unmatched greenhouse gas emissions and would threaten coastal economies, vibrant fisheries, traditional Alaska Native communities, and imperiled Arctic wildlife.

Now is the time to tell Secretary Salazar that polar bears are more important than oil-company profits. Please take a moment today to call or email him to defend polar bears from oil development in their already precarious and melting world.

 

Sample  letter:

Subject: No Oil Leasing in the Arctic

I urge you to take this critical opportunity to reject the Bush administration's ill-conceived plans for offshore oil drilling in Alaska, as in the 2010-2015 Draft Proposed Leasing Program. You have pledged to "make wise decisions based on sound information." Now is the time to fulfill your promise by instituting a rigorous plan to protect America's imperiled Arctic.

The Arctic is already warming at twice the rate of the rest of the world, leading to drastic sea-ice habitat loss for Arctic species, including polar bears and walruses. If America's polar bears are to survive in the coming decades, we must take drastic steps immediately to stop unwise fossil fuel development in the Arctic.

Please throw out the Bush administration's five-year plan and the illegal Arctic Ocean leases that followed. It is time to create a plan of your own that is consistent with your promise of a science-based, comprehensive approach to energy that will ensure a legacy of healthy, living oceans for future generations. It is time to say no to the Bush administration's dangerous and unnecessary program for Arctic destruction through oil and gas development.

Thank you.

Please take action by September 21, 2009.

Youth Encouraging Sustainability Fair

Sep 09, 2009

Superheroes strongly suggest involving yourself in a ‘hug a tree, hug a student’ environmental fair; Good participants teach, the best inspire!

 

The Canuck Nanooks participated in an environmental showcase at Oak Hammock Marsh; a wildlife management area featuring restored prairie marsh, aspen-oak bluff, waterfowl lure crops, artesian springs and some of Manitoba's last remaining patches of tall-grass prairie.

The team has participated in this environmental fair for nine years.  Projects are to reflect three pillars of sustainability.

 

·        environment 

·        economy

·        human health and well-being.

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We presented innovative ideas that individuals can incorporate to reduce the impact of Global Climate Change.

The team was awarded Platinum and a small scholarship that we happily recycled to local polar bear research.

Giant Polar Bear hugs to Dr. Heather Robinson who passionately organizes this event each year.

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Update: Victory Garden, the War on CO2

Sep 03, 2009

This is a great educational video about the impact to our environment- socially, economically and physically - that results from importing food.

 

http://s314.photobucket.com/albums/ll422/CanuckNanooks/?action=view&current=GreenGardening.flv

Project: Canada's MOST Wanted: Highlighting Environmental Heroes

Sep 03, 2009

A great deal of good can be done in the world if one is not too careful who gets the credit.

 

Superhero Description:

Faster than a speeding bullet; leaping tall buildings in a single bound; and . . . taking out the recyclables…!

 

 

If a hero is one idealized or held in esteem for superior qualities or deeds of any kind then we have many secret heroes among us.  These unsung friends of the environment quietly go about their day to day tasks knowing that the aluminum drink can in their hand today could be the frame of their water powered car of the future.  Or, in the case of our first hero, what drops out of the hind end of a pachyderm ends up as paper!

 

In this project we want to actively seek out and highlight these superheroes and their green deeds to encourage the populace it’s actually easy to be green

 

ECO-FRIENDLY ZOO INITIATIVES From the Zoological Society of Manitoba and the Assinboine Park Zoo

 

REDUCING, REUSING, RECYCLING & RENEWING

 

The Zoological Society of Manitoba and Assiniboine Park Zoo are pleased to be contributing to a wilder, greener future for plants and animals by practicing ecologically sensitive business.

 

Here’s how we are leading by example:

 

 

Eco-friendly Materials and Products:

 

Our Food Services division provides containers and plates made from Bagasse instead of polystyrene, serves drinks in Ecotainer coffee cups and clear corn juice cups, and uses forks, knives and spoons derived from potatoes instead of plastic.  All of these products can also be composted.

 

Our Zoo Gift Shop uses OXO biodegradable bags.

 

The Gift Shop also sells Mr. Ellie Pooh paper products, 100% organic cotton tshirts, purses made of bamboo and coconut and bamboo xylophones.

 

Composting:

Compost bins are used to turn zoo classroom and zoo restaurant food scraps into soil.

 

Large scale composting of organic materials like plant material, hay and bedding,and animal manure saves hundreds of tons of rubbish from entering landfills.

 

Recycling:

All paper, glass,  plastic and aluminum products are collected and picked up by local companies.

 

Fluorescent light  bulbs are collected and brought to a special depot for proper disposal.

 

All scrap metal is  collected for recycling depots.

 

We collect used ink  jet, laser printer and fax cartridges as well as old cell phones, and send it to companies that recycle the materials.

 

We purchase office  paper and paper products made from recycled material.

 

Reusing:

We actively solicit  public donations of used items like fridges, ladders, bicycles, towels, and animal equipment for reuse throughout the zoo to reduce cost and cut back on consumerism.

 

Branches and small  trees are chipped and the wood chips then used for enclosures and pathways.

 

Join the Zoo Education Centre throughout 2009 for Mission: Big Foot!

 

Environmental Education:

Strong  environmental and conservation messaging is a vital part of all children, adult and senior programs (including camps, guided tours, and workshops) at the Zoo Education Centre.

 

The Zoo Education  Centre has joined forces with zoos around North America in 2009 as part of a yearlong initiative to challenge schools, families, companies and governments to reduce the size of their carbon footprint and their negative impacts on the earth.

 

Reducing Our Consumption and Our Impact:

Both our Gift Shop  and Café use Bio-Life cleaning products that are plant based (renewable), biodegradable and phosphate-free.

 

These greener  cleaners are being phased-in zoo-wide as is the use of compact fluorescent bulbs and other energy saving devices.

 

Timers and sensors  are installed in offices, buildings and exhibits so that lights are not left on.

 

We accept donations of fresh fruit and veggies from the public for the animals so it does not go to waste as well as donations of other foodstuffs, material and other pertinent items from companies to assist with costs and so the items don’t end up in the landfill.

 

Newsletters,  renewal and registration forms are emailed instead of sent by regular post whenever possible.

 

If brochures,  newsletters or marketing materials are produced, they are printed on 100% post-consumer paper with vegetable based inks.

 

We use electric  golf carts and tour trolleys and staff get around the zoo on bikes.

 

We support and  participate in anti-litter campaigns. 

 

Compiled by the Zoo Education Centre – Committed to a greener future

 

Project: Everything Old Is New Again

Aug 26, 2009

Old superheros never die; they just get endlessly recycled in Hollywood movies.

 

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Prairie people are known for their ingenuity and thriftiness.  There is nothing we like better than a great bargain following a round of intense bartering.  Weekends are planned around garage sales and Sunday afternoons most often include either auctions or stalking flea markets.

 

Last year we built a gazebo from recycled materials and challenged our neighbours to ‘one up’ us in their second hand endeavors.  We extended the challenge again this year and are delighted with the anecdotal reports and pictures forwarded to us.

 

Reusing materials keeps them out of landfills, and reduces the strain on the environment from manufacturing and transportation of goods.  We are a nation driven by consuming and third world countries are often forced to carry the brunt of our insatiable appetite for ‘whatever is new’. 

 

We know with a little imagination one mans’ trash can become another mans’ treasure. Everyone and, for this project, everything deserves a second chance!

 

 

 

 these 30 year old shelves in the basement of a home were given a new life as this adorable toddler bed 

 

 

 

we love that the theme for this recycled bed is a flower garden, complete with picket fence.  Total cost, less than $10!

 

 

this garden path is made from the remains of concrete sidewalk blocks and railway ties form the perimeter of the flower bed

 

 

we went digging in a ditch for stones that used to be a retaining wall but had fallen apart.

 

 

 

these rocks form a stepping stone path from our patio to the Green Gazebo and the Go For the Goldfish Pond.  Total cost .....water to wash the 100 kilograms of mud off our wellingtons and some great muscles from digging holes! (oh, and a nasty case of poison ivy)

 

 

recycling in both official languages

 

 

 

 

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Local contractors were throwing wood from demolished projects into the trash.  Enough wood was salvaged to complete the bases of 4 eco-friendly garden sheds

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this metalwork was originally part of a prop in a musical production.  The pieces were welded to a frame and now serve as an ornamental wall in a garden

Update: Thank You Very Mulch - Composting

Aug 20, 2009

Each family produces approximately 1 tonne of garbage each year which is landfilled.  One-quarter of this garbage is made up of food waste; kitchen scraps. 

 

In a landfill this food breakdown can form dangerous by-products.  Minimal oxygen means methane gas production which migrate underground and kills vegetation or leaches into surrounding buildings and can cause fires and explosions.

Composting makes good environmental sense.  Food waste becomes fertile garden compost for your gardens and flower beds.

 

this green cone uses the sun's heat to accelerate the composting process and lengthen the composting season.  The outside wall is translucent and the inside wall is opaque.  This creates a solar heat trap.  The digestion chamber is buried in the ground which acts as an insulator and heat source in the winter.  80% of food waste is water which is absorbed into the ground.  The soil absorbs odours and lets air into the system.  Natural microbes enter through the ground and break down the waste.

 

This is a unique composter in that you can include meat, fish, poultry and diary products.  Its closed system prevents pests from entering.

 

this garden is fueled by compost - no harmful chemicals are applied

 

In June of this year Winnipeg held its annual compost extravaganza.  Participants were able to purchase a large compost bin for $25 to deal with kitchen waste and grass clippings.  Thousands of composters were purchased.  This program has been active for many years and we are delighted that residents are actively reducing rubbish while supplying great ‘food’ for their gardens.

Project: Moo-ve Over & Feel Baaa-d About Mowing

Aug 14, 2009

Superhero Tip # 5346

 

No need to feel sheepish or pull the wool over your eyes; using a cow for mowing might seem udderly ridiculous or even slightly amoosing.  We say  "bully" for those who look at environmentally friendly alternatives and milk each opportunity. 

 

 

 officially overseeing all baaa-d puns

 

Gas and electric lawn mowers contribute to air pollution and have a large collective impact.  Gas mowers generate emissions directly, electric mowers indirectly in the form of power-plant emissions.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency states that 25 hours worth of mowing produces

• 87 pounds of CO₂
• 48 pounds CO
• 5.6 pounds Volatile Organic Compounds
• O.25 NO
• 0.02 SO₂
• O.02 pounds of particulate matter linked to heart disease and lung cancer

 

These play a prime role in the formation of low-level ozone, smog, and acid rain.  This is the equivalent of 43 new cars driving 12,000 miles each.

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 No fleecing these Polar gals!

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More than 20 million gallons of fuel are spilled during refueling of fuel.

 

Grass clippings pile up in landfills.  A 1,000 square-foot lawn can generate about 300 pounds of clippings n a year.  Multiply that by a typical suburban neighbourhood and you can quickly see the implications. 

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 Madison & Miranda discuss  how close their friends will be if they go into the business of bagging and selling sheep manure

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To provide your lawn with one inch of water takes a little over half a gallon per square foot (0.623 gallon to be more exact). That means that every 10’x10’ area will require over 62 gallons of water. That doesn’t sound like much until you consider that a 100’ x 100’ lawn uses 6,230 gallons of water every time you turn on the sprinklers!

 

 

Once again we have enlisted ours, and neighbouring municipalities to use alternative methods than mowing.

 

• Plant natural islands of trees and bushes for reduction of grass and encourage habitat for wildlife
• Let portions of your property grow ‘wild’ or plant wildflowers and natural species
• Leave your grass longer
• Tether sheep, goats horses and cows for natural grass trimming
• Mulch or compost clippings

 

 

With the success of last years livestock sharing individuals in the communities are coming on board and ‘inventing’ their own shared network.  Small flocks of sheep are mowing the back yard at a local garden centre; geese are weeding gardens; horses are decorating lawns (while children follow with shovels and wheelbarrows and then head off to the garden compost); and in one municipality a small herd of cattle lead by a overly friendly 1,800 pound BULL foreman were sent to graze an area used for entertainment and lawn games.

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mobile electric fencing allows movement of livestock

 

 

We have seen a large upsurge in interest in naturalizing yards with native plants and flowers.  This not only removes ALL mowing, it serves as a highly visual education area for the neighbours – we find that most gardeners are more than eager to share both their knowledge and plants.

 

 receiving mowing instructions

 

 

even horses approve of goldfish eating mosquitoes

 

 

We estimate that close to 100 acres in over 5 municipalities are participating in the livestock mowing alternative.

 

Each acre takes approximately ½ hour to mow

Each hour of mowing produces 3.5 lbs of C0₂

 

_{http:///www.mowdownpollution.ca}

I cannot do everything, but still I can do something

Aug 06, 2009

 

 

 

Madison, Rebekah, Miranda, Rachael, & Iain 

 

 

We took a holiday from our jobs to relax in one of our provincial parks.  Keeping CO2 usage to a minimum we squished 6 of us into the car.  It was a wonderful 4 days as we hiked, swam, kayaked, canoed and shared with our fellow outdoorsmen ways to protect the environment and reduce CO₂.  (We might have caused a bit of noise pollution with our singing)

 

 

 

  swapping our CO2 for some O2 

 

 

Many of the places we visited were the result of one person’s vision and determination to preserve and protect the wildlife and habitat for future generations.  E.E. Hale’s words reverberated with us:  “I am one, but I am still one.  I cannot do everything, but still I can do something.   And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something I can do.” 

 

 

 

Madison practices her kayaking 

 

 

As we climbed the rocky path and stopped to enjoy the small, but spectacular, McGillivray Falls, we paused to reflect that the eventual destination of the water in this drainage system is Hudson Bay.  As it journeys through the Whiteshell it sustains plant and animal communities, and provides the lakes for us to kayak, sail and canoe on.  Good stewardship at this ‘birthplace’ ensures a clean water supply for our beloved Polar Bears in Churchill, Hudson Bay. 

 

 

 

 Rebekah & Rachael discuss C02 reduction  

 

 

McGillivray falls:  a message in a bottle here would end up in Hudson Bay (or a recycling centre)

  

 

We encourage our fellow teams to take a ‘green’ break and renew their vision for protecting the planet.  Your ideas and visions inspire us to try harder and we know that collectively we are making a difference. 

 

 

 

 

 

Miranda joyously singing our Polar Bear song

Polar Bear Ads & Petition

Aug 06, 2009

Using all means to get the message across, the Canuck Nanooks encourage our American friends to sign the petition from the Center for Biological Diversity to strengthen the U.S. climate bill.  Write your senators and express your support.  In Canada one person writing a letter is viewed as two thousand people speaking out.  The Centre has also produced two public service announcements concerning polar bears and climate change.

 

Center Snowballs Support to Fix Flawed Climate Bill -- August Action Needed

We're facing the greatest threat to life in human history -- catastrophic global climate change. And the deeply flawed House climate bill, passed in June, must be significantly strengthened as it moves through the Senate. To help make sure the bill is everything it must be, the Center for Biological Diversity has hired a dynamic new climate campaign coordinator, Rose Braz, who's organizing hundreds of individuals and groups all over the country to take action in August to send a clear message to Congress that we need a strong global warming bill now -- not an imperfect "first step" toward addressing the climate crisis. The bill must include capping CO2 levels at no more than 350 parts per million, maintaining the Clean Air Act's ability to regulate polluters, and removing loopholes that let CO2-spewing industries keep on spewing.

Sign the petition to put the heat on the Senate and President Obama to pass the climate bill the planet needs. This August, while the Senate is in recess in their home state, is our time to speak up.

http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/

Center Polar Bear Ad Reaches 90 Million Viewers, Among Most Popular in Nation

helped motivate more than 94,000 people to petition for polar bear protection.Last year thousands of Center for Biological Diversity supporters contributed to help us get two public service announcements on the airwaves to motivate people to save polar bears and stop global warming. We promised to reach 10 million viewers. Well . . . in a little over six months, our ads reached more than 90 million viewers (or 180 million eyeballs) and are still going strong. During that time, they were the 13th most popular public service announcement in the country.

 pass this email link on to your friends.http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/mammals/polar_bear/ads.html

Project: Thank You Very Mulch

Aug 03, 2009

No Superhero would ever risk flying without SPF 54,000 sunblock; covering your garden makes equal sense.  Clothes may make the man, but compost grows the garden!

 

 

 

ducks are great for weeding between rows of veg and chickens take care of insects - add the benefit of eggs (the nicest thing to drop out of rear end of a duck or chicken) and even a Christmas goose! (note: never name the goose you're going to eat) 

 

 

 

This is a sister project to Victory Garden, the War on CO₂.  For those who planted gardens we encourage conservation methods in tending.  This includes

 

Mulching:

          Protect from erosion

          Conserve moisture

          Reduce water needs

          Prevent weed growth

          Maintain a steady soil temperature

 

Recycling rain water by employing collection barrels

 

Utilizing composters for garden waste and returning composted organic material to the garden to eliminate fertilizers. (Fertilizing one acre of lawn at the recommended rate of 137 pounds per acre results in 405 pounds of CO₂ equivalent emission)

 

mom and chicks eating insects and woodticks around the yard and gardens -

 

 

 natural insect control is achieved in this garden by using preying mantises which were hatched in the spring. 

Project: Victory Garden, the War on CO2

Aug 03, 2009

Superhero Beef # 4532b

 

“If an apple a day keeps the doctor away – then carrots, beans, zucchini, peas and watermelons keep the CO₂ villain at bay!”

 

Most North Americans’ meals are produced in five different countries.  The transportation of food represents more than 20% of total commodity transport.  To reduce CO₂ released from areoplanes, trucks, trains, cargo ships we are encouraging our neighbours to eat food that is in season, organic, and grown locally.

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 a beautiful display of container gardening; complete with composter

 

 

Grow a garden, Grow a Superhero:  Harrison, Jackson and Alexis show their gardening expertise! 

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 this arbour not only provides shade it produces a crop of grapes for jam (and munching while you clean the pool beyond)

 

 

Livestock also play a role in environmental pollution, methane production (the #2 greenhouse gas), and use of valuable water resources.  To produce one pound of beef (454 grams) 2,500 gallons of water are needed.   

 

 

We are promoting planting of vegetable, fruit, and flowers gardens from container pots to community acreages.  To reduce methane and water usage we encourage fasting beef one day a week.

 

 Madison in the veg garden

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Iain enjoys some fresh cucumbers

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Madison fuels up before weeding

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Over 400 families have signed our garden pledge.  We are excited that many of our community gardeners will be donating their produce to our local food banks.  The gardens range in size from container pots to multi-family large acre plots.

 

 this garden was reclaimed from a concrete slab.  Careful planning and hard work has produced an area that benefits both it owners and the environment

 

 

 this garden has companion planting of both flowers and veg.  Reclaimed rock forms the base for the bistro table.  A composter is tucked neatly in the corner.

 

Update: Leafing CO2 Behind

Aug 03, 2009

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago.  The second best time is NOW.

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We excitedly left the snow behind to find it replaced with....rain, rain, and more rain! 

  

Fortunately Super Heroes are not like ordinary citizens, we suspect ours possess webbed feet, and can overcome obstacles such as monsoons and multitudes of happy quacking ducks. 

 

 

Thanks to some great discounts at our garden centers 350 fruit trees were safely tucked into the sticky gumbo with promises of bumper crops for next year – well, perhaps just knowing how much water was conserved from NOT having to water the trees is reward enough.

 

350 trees X 2,206 lbs CO₂/tree = 772,100 lbs of CO₂ removed

Total CO₂ removed = 5,184,100 lbs

 

 

Ducks go QUACKERS for super heroes

 

Zoo Social

Jun 27, 2009

"Superhero Super Schedule”

 

1.  Flying Cape:  pick up at cleaners, 0800h

2.  Leap Tall Buildings in a Single Bound:      Aerobics Class, 0845h

3.  Bullet Proof Suit Test:  Shooting Range, 1120h

4. Social Skills:  Attend Polar Bear Social, 1900h

 

 

 

 Madison, Rachael, & Miranda at the Social Event of the Season!

 

As the polar bear capital of the world we have been without a member of the iconic Arctic species since 2008, when 42-year-old zoo resident Debby died. The zoo is unable to acquire another adult polar bear because its existing bear enclosure, built in the 1950s, no longer meets Manitoba Conservation standards.

 

The Assiniboine Park Conservancy is planning to build a $7-million facility called the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre as part of a $90-million zoo rehabilitation that will take place over the next 10 years.

 

The IPBCC “will provide information to the public about the arctic environment and polar bear conservation. It will also help to coordinate education and conservation & research programs internationally. The centre will actively participate in and help coordinate a rescue program for orphaned polar bears in Canada and internationally, insuring that these precious animals are conditioned to our care and that their final home is committed to their long-term well-being.

 

The Arctic exhibit area will form the other boundary to the education campus with muskox and caribou, arctic fox, and snowy owls that surround a world class polar bear exhibit including inside, underwater viewing and a range of other viewing opportunities.”

 We 'pledge' to do our best for the Polar Bears

 

 

 

So what’s that got to do with being social you ask?

 

The Polar Bear Express, a branch of the Zoological Society of Manitoba, has been hard at work organizing many activities to raise funds for our new enclosure and is the driving force behind the Polar Bear Conservation Fund.  This Friday evening not even the pouring rain could keep Winnipeggers from attending the first Party for the Polar Bears.  Hundreds converged at the Zoo Tracks Café to enjoy live music, dancing in puddles, terrific food, and entering draws for incredible prizes.

 

 

 Under Debby's memorial banner are some of the great raffle prizes

 

The Canuck Nanooks joined in the celebrations and took some time to educate the public to the plight of our Northern neighbours.  Participants were given opportunity to sign both our Good Neighbour Pledge and register their gardening efforts.

 

 Good Neighbour & Victory Garden sign up

 

 

Madison & Rachael take a break from chatting with all the Polar Pals

 

We had a polarific time!  Our thanks to Scott Gray, Tricialynn Zacharias, and Julie Eccles for all their hard work, especially when the sunshine took an unexpected vacation.  These superheroes not only give of their own time, but also provide opportunity for youth to get involved.  We salute you! (in our wellingtons and from under our umbrellas)

 

 The Canuck Nanooks and the Polar Bear Express,  Zoological Superheroes (cleverly disguised as ordinary mild mannered citizens)  Scott, Tricia, and Julie

 

 

Oh – the Canuck Nanooks also won a great raffle prize.  “Summer Fun”.  We plan to recycle it at “Boo At the Zoo” in October to raise more funds, although we are tempted to adopt the plush polar bear.

 

 Rachael:  what better way to celebrate the last day of school than attend a Polar Bear Party?

 

 

 

Project: Leafing CO2 Behind

Jun 24, 2009

“No superhero ever made an ASH out of himself by planting a tree.  Truly, he’s rather POPLAR.”

 

 

 

 

 

 Miranda hugs a more tropical tree than we can grow!

 

 

The snow has finally melted, and the frost of June is past.  Besides breaking out the suntan lotion this means…. yes, tree planting!

 

We canvassed our neighbours and ordered trees from the Prairie shelterbelt Program (PSP).  This agroforesty division provides tree and shrub seedlings for the establishment of shelterbelts, conservation and reclamation project on agricultural lands. 

 

Shelterbelts conserve soil and water, manage snow and wind, improve air quality, protect yards and livestock, stabilize crops and enhance habitat for wildlife. 

 

Trees breathe in carbon dioxide and convert it into stored carbon and oxygen.  It is estimated that one broad leaf tree will absorb approximately 1 Tonne (2,205 lbs) of carbon dioxide during its lifetime. 

 

Planting 10 trees a year is a simple way to offset your annual CO₂ production and beautify your neighbourhood.

 

In 6 weeks over 2,000 trees were planted.  Our family concentrated on wildlife corridors and riparian planting.  We even splurged and planted 10 fruit trees.  (Too bad we can’t grow bananas)

 

We are partnering with local greenhouses to supply trees and plants to those who are not eligible for PSP trees.  We plan to highlight a ‘green’ nursery in an upcoming blog.

 

2,000 trees X 2,206 lbs/CO₂ = 4,412,000 lbs or 2,206 Tons of CO₂ reduced

 

 presoaking seedlings

 

 

 Iain, Madison, Miranda & Dad "Where are the apples?"

 

 

 

 Poplar seedling in front and mature poplar behind