Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Indonesian Children Help U.S. Embassy 'Go Green' for Earth Day Event
Source: Antara News

Jakarta - Over 80 Indonesian children helped U.S. Ambassador Cameron R. Hume celebrate Earth Day through poetry, sports, environmentally-themed games and even a puppet show by the characters from Trans-7's "Jalan Sesama."

In addition, the Ministry of Environment's Goodwill Ambassador Valerina Daniel helped Ambassador Hume and the children put finishing touches on an environmental mural, one of seven murals displayed on the U.S. Embassy's fence, each of which showcase Indonesia's biodiversity and environment.

"I'm proud to have these murals displayed on our Embassy wall," said Ambassador Hume in a press statement of the US embassy in Jakarta Tuesday.

"It is important that young people in Indonesia start to think about the environment at an early age. How Indonesia and the U.S. treat their forests and oceans will affect the rest of the world, and all of our children's futures," he said.

"Indonesia is an environmental 'superpower', and a natural leader in global efforts to protect the environment. Yet the country faces tremendous challenges to ensure that the next generation will inherit these vast environmental richest," the ambassador said.

The seven 8-foot-by-4-foot murals were designed and painted by children who study at both USAID educational partners and local schools in Bogor. The children painted the murals in between classes and after school, and also learned about Earth Day and what they can do to save the environment.

In addition to painting the mural, the children read poems about the environment, participated in sports, including soccer, hula-hoops, frisbee, and several environmentally-themed games and activities. Coca-Cola also provided an 'Eco Bus,' a specially- designed bus, powered by environmentally friendly bio-diesel, and featuring interactive educational activities about the environment.

Other material and food donations were provided by several sponsors, including Coca-Cola, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, Ace Hardware, Soccer School Indonesia (SSI-Arsenal), The Learning Farm and PGB Bangau Putih.