A Spectacular Event, to Protect Wildlife in War Zones

On Friday the 13th of March, The Earth Organization and Miss Earth SA held a very successful event in the Johannesburg zoo. The event was attended by 120 school children from a disadvantaged community in Alexandra. The children were very excited to be included in the conservation project. Also present were 25 Miss Earth semi-finalists. They all helped with teaching the children about environmental issues and making the day fun for the kids.

In his welcome address, the CEO of the Johannesburg Zoo, Dr. Stephen Van Der Spuy, welcomed all the guests and spoke about the necessity of preserving wildlife sanctuaries.

The Internationally renowned conservationist, Mr. Lawrence Anthony, followed with an explanation of how he came to realize that the proposed resolution was a vital part of conservation. He himself had spent time in several war torn countries and the animals were always the ones to suffer. It was this experience that drove him to the creation of the resolution. Catherine Constantinides, the National Director of Miss Earth South Africa,  added that there is a need for man to protect ethical groups and organizations who contribute to the conservation landscape. Pointing out that animals had too long been the unnoticed victims of mans conflicts. 

All the supporters then walked through the zoo and signed a scroll in support of the draft resolution. This was handed to Mr. Alam of the United Nations, who accepted the scroll and pledged to get it to the United Nations in New York. Mr. Alam spoke about the importance of groups such as The Earth Organization who put in place such important conservation initiatives.

“Zoos and Game Reserves are fast becoming our new Noah’s Arks, the last refuge of a growing number of critically endangered species, and they need and deserve the protection of the international community.” Said Yvette Taylor the Executive Director of The Earth Organization, in closing of the day’s proceedings.