Last June 26th, Rotary’s international board of trustees unanimously approved a new focus area for Rotary – the environment. On July 1, 2021, Rotary is “putting its money where its mouth is”, as environmental projects of all kinds become available for global grant funding. For more on this topic, see this month’s copy of “Rotary” magazine. Listed below are specific initiatives targeted for funding:
Restoring habitat, planting native vegetation, and removing invasive plant and animal species
Protecting endangered species and preventing illegal wildlife trade
Addressing overfishing, pollution and coastal erosion
Educating communities in conservation and resource management
Supporting eco-friendly agriculture and sustainable fisheries
Promoting the use of traditional and indigenous knowledge in resource management
Supporting the transition to energy-efficient transportation
Eliminating exposure to environmental toxins
Reducing food waste
Many of these issues sound very much like the needs of Nebraskans, some of which are addressed by the state’s unique and elected NRD structure, federal entities including the Army Corps of Engineers, NGOs such as the Nebraska Environmental Trust, and more. I wonder if we have a Rotarian who is passionate about these issues and has the vision to pull together a sustainable project. Contact me if you are that person.
See you on Wednesday as we hear from new member Cesar Garcia. And Happy Passover to those celebrating this ancient faith tradition beginning March 27th.