What’s all this talk about Rio?
This week, world leaders are meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to discuss one of the most universal issues on the global table: the environment. The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, known as Rio+20, will bring together representatives from public and private sectors, NGOs, and governments to address the role of environmental awareness as our global community seeks to end poverty and promote sustainable development.
Why should I care?
Preparations for Rio+20 have revealed seven priority areas for the conference. At least one, if not all, of these areas directly influence your life every single day.
What’s The Hunger Project’s role in Rio?
At The Hunger Project, each of these areas have long been a priority and we know that environmental concerns are very real and urgent — especially for people in developing countries. In India, our colleagues work closely with the Environmental Defense Fund to mitigate climate change; in Africa, THP programs train farmers in sustainable agriculture techniques such as drip irrigation and solar electricity; in Bangladesh, our partners run anti-pollution campaigns; and in Mexico, programs emphasize recycling practices. We are proud to be a part of Rio+20 and the push to make sustainable programs like ours a global standard.
When is it happening?
The primary meetings will take place June 20-22 with lead-up events including an opportunity for you to have your voice heard with Rio+Social and a side panel where The Hunger Project’s Executive VP John Coonrod illustrated how the empowerment of grassroots people and women in particular, is critical for sustainable agricultural and rural development.
I’m intrigued. What can I do?
The best thing you can do is be informed, ensure that others are as well, and make your collective voice heard.
- FAO’s 100 facts to know before (and during!) Rio+20
- Get up to speed with this pre-Rio+20 reading list from The World Bank
- Don’t miss a minute with live-tweets from Exec VP John Coonrod, and Tweet along with #RioPlus20
- Keep an eye on Rio with THP on Pinterest
- Watch: Learn how to make your voice heard with Rio+Social
- And last but not least, check out the Rio+20 Website
