Post by Prabhjit Banga

October 24th, 2009 is a very important day — 350.org has organized an international day of climate action, to show the world’s leaders that there is a global movement for them to come to an agreement on a carbon emissions treaty at the UN Climate talks in Copenhagen in December.

The focus is on the number 350–as in parts per million, the level scientists have identified as the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. But 350 is more than a number–it’s a symbol of where we need to head as a planet.

To participate, organize an action or look for one  in your community on October 24. There are no limits here–imagine bike rides, rallies, concerts, hikes, festivals, tree-plantings, protests, and more. Your action will be linked up with thousands of others around the globe.

If we can pull it off, we’ll send a powerful message on October 24: the world needs the climate solutions that science and justice demand.

Check out 350.org for more information.

 Post by Prabhjit Banga

Also called the festival of lights, Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in the South East Asian culture.  The occasion celebrates the victory of good over evil. Lamps and candles are lit to chase away the darkness of ignorance and welcome the bright light of enlightenment. This is a time of reflection, thanks and renewal. This Diwali take the time to reflect on the things you can do to make your Diwali celebration an eco-friendly one.  

Diwali Cleaning
In preparation for Diwali every year my family and I clean our home from top to bottom. The cleaning is done to harmonize the space around us to derive positive energy. Any unwanted clothes and household items are donated to our local shelter. Cleaning up, not only means cleaning your home, but also cleaning our environment, so pick up some litter from the ground!

Avoid the Fireworks
As a kid lighting firecrackers was the highlight of Diwali. The brighter the sparkles were and the louder the noise they made, the more excited I got. But I soon came to realize that the temporary joy of watching firecrackers was replaced with a stinky toxic smell. Toxic substances used in the firecrackers aren’t very good for us or the environment. Celebrate by lighting candles and diyas (small clay pots filled with oil in which a wick is lit) and avoid the fireworks.

A Candle-Light Diwali
Being the Festival of Lights, this is a good time to remind ourselves of all the energy and resources it takes to light up our homes and businesses. On Diwail, many people leave all the lights on in their home. Please avoid this. I prefer the look of diyas and candles, instead of electric illumination, not only do they look nicer, but it also cuts down energy consumption. If you’re putting up outdoor lights, use LED lights; they come in bright colors and use 80% less energy than traditional lights.   

Also, keep in mind that the deeper meaning of Diwali is not about lighting up our homes, it’s about dispelling darkness in our lives and ushering in positive feelings and energy.

Buy Less
Since Diwali is also a celebration of abundance and wealth, many people believe that it is a good time to buy. Often, people go out and buy new items even when they don’t need them. Cut down your shopping list and avoid purchasing unnecessary things this Diwali. Instead of buying gifts, make them! Bake some goodies, paint a picture or take one of your mom’s old sarees and drape it over a canvas to make a great piece of art (see picture below).

 Send Diwali E-cards to your friends and family. Check out http://www.indiaexpress.com/cards/Holidays/Diwali/  

This Diwali take the time to reflect on the things that you can do to live responsibly and reduce your impact on the environment. A little thought and care can make a huge difference.

Wishing you and your family a Happy Diwali! 

The Asia-Pacific Region has been struck by six simultaneous disasters in a short span of time.

The Philippines was struck by a destructive typhoon on September 26 and a second tropical storm is looming. Samoa and Tonga and American Samoa were hit by a tsunami on September 30.  

Heavy rains and landslides have triggered displacement of thousands of people throughout the region. UNICEF and Red Cross are providing emergency assistance to children and families affected by the disasters, so please make a contribution to help with the relief efforts.

For more information about making a donation, visit:

Unicef http://www.unicef.ca/portal/SmartDefault.aspx?at=2263

Red Cross http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=14932&tid=001