Media Release 8 September 2005

Volunteers across Canada take action for a greener world

Thousands of volunteers from the U.S.A and Canada are expected to take part in the annual Clean Up the World Weekend, celebrated globally on the 16th - 18th of September.

Held in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Clean Up the World campaign, now in its thirteenth year, empowers over 35 million people in over 110 countries to take simple, positive steps to improve and protect their environment each year.

"Our 2005 theme ‘Green Cities Green Communities' is encouraging people around the world to look at ways they can reduce their environmental impact across the areas of waste, water and energy. This is of particular importance in urban areas as 75% of the planet's natural resources are consumed in cities," said Ian Kiernan AO, Chairman and Founder of Clean Up the World.

Active environmentalist and entertainer, Bette Midler, became an ambassador of the campaign this year and her team at the New York Restoration Project will initiate Clean Up the World Weekend activities in New York City.

In Canada, volunteers from east to west coast are also taking action.

Two government bodies in Vancouver will be encouraging their staff to participate in environmental activities as well as look at ways they can reduce their daily waste.

Reducing plastic bag usage and eliminating styrofoam take away containers will be the focus in Ottawa.

The youth of St Johns will share ideas centred on ocean conservation and will initiate a clean up of a local beach.

Volunteers in New Brunswick, concerned about the impact of growth and modernization on the environment, will plant Bur Oak trees throughout Fredericton.

"I encourage more individuals to register as Members of Clean Up the World. Join us in creating greener cities and communities across the world," concluded Ian Kiernan.

Communities across Canada are encouraged to register with Clean Up the World by visiting www.cleanuptheworld.org. Members receive information and materials to assist with the promotion and implementation of environmental activities.

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