Blue Marble Views

01/06/2022

A new tree from the ylang-ylang family is the first to be named in 2022 and is being named after the actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio. He campaigned to revoke a logging concession which threatened the African tree, which features glossy yellow flowers on its trunk.

The highlighted plants are among the 205 new species named in 2021 by scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and their collaborators around the world. All are vital parts of the planet’s biodiversity and some may provide food and medicine.

Hundreds of new species include pink voodoo lily and an ylang-ylang tree named after Leonardo DiCaprio

12/03/2021

These Portuguese kids are suing 33 European countries to force them to cut emissions

The Oliveira siblings, along with four other young people from Portugal, are suing the governments of the 33 most polluting countries in Europe, including their own, to drastically reduce the production of planet-warming emissions. They argue that climate change risks their health and future, violating their human rights. Portugal is facing sea-level rise as well as chronic droughts and heatwaves.

The European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France, has fast-tracked the lawsuit, filed in 2020, which means a judgment could come next year.

Adults "can see us as serious or they can see us as a joke," one of the kids says. "A lawsuit is not a joke," her brother adds. The European Court of Human Rights has fast-tracked their 2020 lawsuit.

08/04/2020

Next time you are enjoying a walk through Zaragoza Park be sure to check out our Diversity Grove 'Tree ID' Activities Hub webpage. You can use the Grove Location Map to identify the 30 various species we have growing. Many of the new saplings provide an excellent opportunity for children reaching the heights of many of the tree's canopies an up close leaf identification experience.

The 'All Things Trees' pdf information pack provides about all the trees in the park including height, fruit, and various wildlife each tree provides shelter and food for.

Make sure to also checkout the instructions and downloadable template for making eco friendly signs and other for all ages. Don't forget to hug one of our 200 year old heritage Oaks too.

06/08/2020

There can be no environmental justice without social justice.

The story of Fatou Samba and hundreds of courageous women fish processors, fighting against the plundering of the oceans by international industrial vessels sent to suck up the fish populations they rely on to survive. The story of Tin Nyo Win, who survived slavery in one of the complex food supply chains that are at the heart of ecosystems collapse. The stories of generations of racialised and marginalised communities impacted by toxic facilities multiplying disease, learning disorders and further exclusion. The stories of workers organising for better lives for themselves and their families and looking for a better future for the planet.

There can be no environmental justice without social justice.

05/09/2020

Don't be one of those humans. Protect nature against those who threaten it. 🌎

A compelling UN assessment shows the full picture of humanity's devastating impact on biodiversity and nature.

04/22/2020

"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous." ~ Aristotle
🌍

04/21/2020

This Earth Week get outside and take in all the Spring life around you.

04/13/2020

Cardinal nest in our garden. Parents are busy! 💚😍🌳🐦

03/31/2020

Greta Thunberg Launches ‘Talks For Future’ As Climate Strikes Continue Online 🌎💚🌎

The 17-year-old Swedish climate activist has enlisted author and fellow activist Naomi Klein for the first of the digital events.

03/31/2020

Austin Parks Foundation's Little Hummingbird Society, the most charming kids club around, is now digital! 🤸 We've made all previous printable booklets and activities available to the public as we're sheltering in place. Ready for some fun from the comfort of home? Check it out: austinparks.org/lhs 💚

Fun kid's activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, volunteerism and involvedment with parks and green spaces. Become a Little Hummingbird today!