Sunlight is a naturally occurring resource, a form of energy that can be instantly converted into usable electricity. Solar power represents a significant opportunity for countries and communities to reduce their use of electricity that relies on fossil fuels, in addition to geothermal power, micro wind and other forms of alternative energy.
Wind power is one of the top sources of renewable energy. There has been a strong growth in the wind power industry throughout the world in the last few years, fueled in part by rising oil prices. Governments have introduced incentives that have supported the growth of wind power as a viable way to support a country's existing power grids.
Due to the expansive growth of cities and the expansion of water consumption, water conservation and water scarcity have become a serious global issues. For example, water scarcity has been noted as a central part of the origins of the conflict in Darfur (Click here to see a related article). Water-related issues are predicted to become increasingly critical in the coming years.
Kahonua Island is a free children's e-book, available on the iPad bookstore and in other formats (including in PDF format,downloadable to any computer, at http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/12094)
A story about Rachael and her talking fish, who convinces her to enter a magic code in her phone. She is transported to Kahonua Island, where she meets a giant gerbil Mr. Green. Grondlet the Sunflower helps charge the phone with solar energy, and they visit Mr. Mantis, a mathematician, to try and unlock the code so she can return home. For ages 10 to 100. Themes: fun, environment, science, math.
Growing sunflowers is fun, easy, and a great way for kids (and adults) to learn about the environment. Some sunflowers can grow several inches a day, up to 12 feet tall! All are welcome to join the club -- no green thumb required. Part of the fun is that the size of the club grows from year to year, as people share their seeds, and each summer brings a new generation of sunflowers. And you can consult the Sunflower Family Tree, and trace sunflowers back to the 1st generation: Grond, Morpheus and the other towering 13 ft monsters.