Help Save the Planet and Our Island
Climate change is happening around the world and on Pohnpei. It is not something that might happen in the future, it’s taking place right now!
Micronesia and all islands are very vulnerable to the impacts of climate change (sea level rise, more frequent and heavier storms, shifting of climate zones, ocean acidification and salinity).
Don´t wait for your parents to take action. Act yourself and you will inspire others to do the same!
Do:
1. Do eat local food. Food that is shipped from around the world costs more for the health of the planet and for your wallet. Buying local food supports local farmers.
2. Do drink water from reusable water bottles.
3. Do use reusable shopping bags instead of plastic bags. Making reusable bags will be a future troop activity!
4. Do obey the Pohnpei State law that says: build your pigpens & outhouses at least 50 feet away from river banks and shorelines
5. Do eat less large animal (cow and pig) meat. There are many other protein options that are better for the planet and you, such as beans and fish.
6. Do bring a reusable container to a restaurant or food stand for your take out. Plastics are not biodegradable and they will end up in the ocean.
7. Do have a small home garden in a raised bed to grow a variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs for your family. Make compost and nurture your garden with it. Contact the Agricultural Department for more information on safe composting.
8. Do learn about invasive species on Pohnpei to avoid spreading them on the island.
9. Do ride a bicycle or walk to save fuel and get exercise.
10. Do talk to family and friends about environmental concerns.
Don’t:
1. Don't burn plastics or rubber because it pollutes the air and contributes to climate change.
2. Don't litter. Trash on the ground eventually ends up in the ocean.
3. Don't pour chemicals into streams or rivers.
4. Don't plant sakau in the upland watershed. Clearing the forest damages marine ecosystems.
5. Don’t fish in the Marine Protected Areas and don’t buy undersized fish.
6. Don't clear the mangroves; they hold the shorelines in place and protect our land resources.
7. Don’t clear forest within the watershed boundary.
8. Don’t leave cars running when going into a building.
9. Don’t leave water running while bathing or washing dishes or clothes.
10. Don’t step on or remove coral from the reefs.
For environmental conservation girls learned how to repurpose reused and recycled materials. Old newspapers were turned into paper mache beads and bowls. Aluminum juice packet were woven together into a purse and old tires made into planters.
