WOMEN IN STEM

Encouraging Girls to Pursue Science and Technology

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are among the fastest-growing fields in today’s world, shaping everything from medicine and climate solutions to artificial intelligence and space exploration. Yet, despite progress, women continue to be underrepresented in these fields, especially in leadership positions.

Encouraging girls to explore STEM is not just about equity—it’s about unlocking innovation, diverse perspectives, and solutions that better serve society as a whole.

Why Representation in STEM Matters

For decades, STEM fields were seen as “male-dominated,” leaving women to battle stereotypes, limited opportunities, and systemic barriers. Today, while more women are entering STEM, challenges remain:

👩‍🔬 Representation Gaps – Women make up nearly half the global workforce but hold less than a third of STEM jobs.

📉 Drop-off Rates – Even those who study STEM often leave the field due to lack of mentorship, hostile work environments, or limited career advancement opportunities.

🌍 Global Implications – With women excluded, we lose out on talent and creativity needed to tackle urgent global issues.

Greater female participation in STEM ensures that innovations reflect diverse experiences and benefit entire communities.

Breaking the Barriers

So, how can we inspire more girls to step into STEM with confidence?

🔹 Early Exposure and Education

Girls need to see STEM as an option from a young age—through hands-on experiments, coding clubs, robotics, and science fairs. Early positive experiences help counter stereotypes before they take root.

🔹 Challenging Stereotypes

Representation matters. Showcasing female scientists, engineers, and innovators helps break the outdated narrative that STEM is “not for girls.”

🔹 Mentorship and Role Models

Mentorship is key. Having a woman guide, encourage, and share her journey in STEM can make all the difference for a young girl deciding whether to pursue the same path.

🔹 Creating Supportive Environments

STEM workplaces and schools must foster inclusivity, ensuring women feel welcomed, respected, and able to thrive.

Creating Spaces for Women to Thrive

At The SOL Foundation, we believe that empowering women in STEM is central to creating a more equitable and innovative future. Through our #SOLEmpowernment initiative, we focus on:

💡 Mentorship Programs – Connecting young girls with women leaders in STEM fields who can inspire and guide them.

💡 Skill-Building Workshops – Partnering with organizations that are offering training in coding, digital literacy, and emerging technologies, ensuring girls gain both confidence and competence.

💡 Awareness Campaigns – Sharing stories of women breaking barriers in STEM to motivate the next generation.

💡 Collaboration with Schools and Communities – Encouraging science-based extracurriculars that make STEM fun, accessible, and exciting for girls.

By creating opportunities and support systems, we hope to show young women that STEM is not just possible—it’s theirs to claim.

The Future is Female—and STEM-Powered

When girls are given equal opportunities in STEM, they don’t just succeed—they redefine what’s possible. From pioneering medical research to building sustainable solutions, women in STEM are essential to solving tomorrow’s challenges.

The journey starts with encouragement, mentorship, and support. Let’s commit to raising a generation of women who will lead with brilliance, courage, and innovation.

✨ Because when she codes, she creates. When she designs, she disrupts. And when she leads in STEM, the whole world advances.

......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Let us take a look at some of the feedback received from our Instagram family talking about the impact of education in our lives:

@theadventglobal

"Science and technology go hand in hand and the future as we are witnessing is that. Education is crucial especially for a girl/woman." 

@lavingdelegend 

"Supports global development" 

@flaviu.soul 

"It's not relevant if they are girls, they should pursue their passion in science." 

@tech_craft007

"It is important as it helps girls in gaining new skills like problem solving skills." 

@zainab_akadir

"Make them be innovative to overcome global challenges" 

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

 Why Financial Independence is Key for Women

Financial independence is one of the most powerful forms of empowerment a woman can attain. It goes beyond income—offering women the ability to make decisions, pursue opportunities, and live with dignity. Whether it's managing a household, launching a small business, or funding education, economic empowerment is the engine that drives long-term transformation.

Around the world, women continue to face systemic barriers in accessing financial tools, capital, and education. But the tide is shifting, thanks to growing awareness, advocacy, and initiatives that are opening doors for women to learn, lead, and thrive.

Why Financial Independence Matters

When women are financially independent, the ripple effects are felt far and wide:

• Families benefit from better nutrition, healthcare, and education.
• Communities grow stronger as more women contribute to local economies.
• Generations are inspired, as children see empowered women as role models.

Economic empowerment is not just about income; it's about having choices and the freedom to shape one’s life.

The Building Blocks: Literacy, Capital, and Opportunity

1. Financial Literacy

Understanding how to budget, save, invest, and manage expenses is fundamental. Yet, many women—especially in under-resourced communities—are excluded from financial education.

Organizations, including The SOL Foundation, support financial literacy by offering workshops, resources, and mentorship. These programs help women gain confidence in handling their own finances and planning for the future.

2. Access to Capital

Even with knowledge and determination, access to funding remains one of the biggest barriers for women entrepreneurs. From microloans and grants to cooperative savings models, having capital can be the difference between a dream and a thriving business.

Supporting women financially—whether through government schemes, NGOs, or private partnerships—creates new streams of opportunity. When women invest in themselves, they often reinvest in their communities.

3. Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Entrepreneurship offers women the chance to build income on their own terms. From tailoring and baking to tech startups and e-commerce, female-led businesses are rising across industries. These ventures often start small but grow to become sources of employment and inspiration.

Mentorship, networking, and access to digital tools can be game-changers for women pursuing self-employment or small enterprises.

The Bigger Picture: Creating Systemic Change

True economic empowerment also involves dismantling the barriers that have held women back for generations—cultural expectations, unequal pay, lack of inheritance rights, and more. While progress has been made, the work is far from over.

Initiatives like #SOLEmpowernment are helping women claim their space—not just in homes and markets, but in boardrooms and policy discussions. When women are economically empowered, they are more likely to advocate for their rights, support other women, and become catalysts for community-wide development.

Inspiring Change, One Step at a Time

Change doesn't happen overnight. But every workshop attended, every business idea launched, and every woman who takes control of her financial future brings us closer to a more equitable world.

The SOL Foundation continues to highlight stories of women who have overcome financial hurdles and emerged as leaders and changemakers. Their journeys prove that when women are given the right tools, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.

Take Action

Whether you're a policymaker, educator, business leader, or individual supporter—you have a role to play in supporting women’s financial independence.

💡 Encourage girls to learn about money from a young age.

💡 Support women-owned businesses in your community.

💡 Advocate for equal opportunities and fair lending practices.

Empowered women build empowered societies—and financial independence is a key part of that foundation.

......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Let us take a look at some of the feedback received from our Instagram family talking about the impact of education in our lives:

@theadventglobal 

"When one is independent, they can make their own decisions, pave their own path and most of all not be burdensome on anyone."

@flaviu.soul 

"omg, you don't depend on anyone, you are free to do whatever you can afford."

@karuvadgraphy

"It's not the money you want - it's the power to say 'no' without fear" 

@aisha_bagha 

"Empowers women to build a stronger future for themselves." 

@zainab_akadir 

"Greater peace of mind and achieving own goals and dreams."

@_real_rizwana 

"To fulfill your own life purpose and goals."

@yvmi_02

"So you can make your own decisions without pressure."

@thevintagepoetry_ 

"Just to not live on anyone else's term."

@changing_breezes 

"For all future unseen events." 

@thepalateprojectco

"Yes."

@fairiezeasel 

" Yes it is important."

@lavingdelegend 

"To control your own life and have a greater peace of mind and not let others control you." 

@bollywood_translation 

"As @priyankachopra stated, when a women earns, she receives respect, independence and freedom!"

THE POWER OF EDUCATION

 How Learning Transforms Women’s Lives

Education is one of the most powerful tools for change—especially when placed in the hands of women. It opens doors, builds confidence, and gives women the freedom to make informed choices that shape their futures. At The SOL Foundation, we believe that empowering women begins with access to knowledge, which is why we’ve made education a core pillar of our #SOLEmpowerment initiative.

One of the most moving and impactful examples of this belief in action is the story of Rizwana, a woman whose life and leadership have been shaped—and strengthened—through education.

Rizwana: A Story of Resilience, Learning, and Leadership

Rizwana holds an MBA in Business and Marketing, but her journey to finding a fulfilling career was far from straightforward. Living with a chronic disability, she often faced challenges securing jobs that could accommodate her needs. Though she worked at various organizations, none truly gave her the fulfillment or recognition her skills deserved—until she found The SOL Foundation.

Rizwana began as a volunteer, applying her knowledge of website management, social media marketing, and digital content creation. Then came the 2020 pandemic—a period of uncertainty for many, but also a time of opportunity. With a bold vision and quiet determination, Rizwana stepped into a leadership role, helping The SOL Foundation expand its reach globally.

Today, Rizwana is not only a key figure in the organization’s global strategy but a living testament to what women can achieve when given the tools to grow.

Learning Without Limits

What makes Rizwana’s story so powerful isn’t just her leadership—it’s her commitment to continuous learning. She understands that education doesn’t end with a degree. In today’s fast-moving world, staying relevant means staying curious.

She has completed courses with Acumen, earned Google Certificates, and participated in training offered by The SOL Foundation. She is now building her expertise as a UI/UX designer and venturing into the dynamic world of AI technology, showing us all what it looks like to adapt, evolve, and thrive.

Despite her humble nature, Rizwana’s efforts have not gone unnoticed:

✨ In 2023, she was nominated for the “Women Who Build Awards” by Globant.

✨ In 2024, she was honored as an Empowered Women Leader USA 2024.

Her achievements go beyond titles—they reflect her courage, consistency, and belief in the power of learning.

 

Education: A Pathway to Possibility

Rizwana’s journey shows us what happens when education meets opportunity. It creates leaders out of learners, voices out of silence, and strength out of struggle. Her story is a reminder that empowering women through education isn’t just about the classroom—it’s about unlocking their potential to lead, innovate, and transform their communities.

At The SOL Foundation, we’re proud to support women like Rizwana through workshops, online learning, mentorship, and leadership development. Every course taken and every new skill learned becomes a step forward—not just for one woman, but for all the lives she’ll go on to influence.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We share Rizwana’s story not just to celebrate her achievements, but to encourage every woman reading this: you are never too old, too limited, or too late to learn something new. With the right mindset and support, your next chapter could be the most empowering one yet.

Let’s continue to uplift and invest in women’s education—because when one woman learns, entire communities grow.

.......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Let us take a look at some of the feedback received from our Instagram family talking about the impact of education in our lives:

@lavingdelegend 

"Because it empowers individuals and fosters economic growth."

@flaviu.soul 

"Education brings awareness on how to act, speak...it's knowledge and behavior." 

@aisha_bagha

"Education can promote environmental awareness and responsibility." 

@_real_rizwana

"Independence" 

@nashina.noorani

"Education broadens your mind and opens it up to accept and acknowledge other's opinions."

"And realize a world beyond our own 4 walls." 

@theadventglobal 

"Education is the key for every individual, if they desire becoming financially independent." 

BREAKING BARRIERS

 Women in Leadership and the Path to Equality

When women lead, communities thrive. Yet across the globe, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership and decision-making roles—from corporate boardrooms to community councils. At The SOL Foundation, our mission to empower women through #SOLEmpowernment includes dismantling the barriers that hold women back and paving the way for a more equitable future.

In this blog, we explore the challenges women face in stepping into leadership roles and the bold, necessary steps we can all take to close the gender gap in leadership.

The Reality: Underrepresentation in Leadership

Despite making up nearly half the world’s population, women are far from achieving equal representation in leadership. Consider the statistics:

• Women hold only a quarter of parliamentary seats globally.
• In the corporate world, less than 10% of Fortune 500 CEOs are women.
• In many communities, women still struggle to have a seat at the table where critical decisions are made.

This gap isn’t about a lack of talent or ambition—it’s about barriers, both visible and invisible.

The Challenges Women Face in Leadership

Here are some of the key obstacles keeping women from leading:

🔹 Cultural and Social Expectations

Traditional gender roles often expect women to prioritize caregiving over career, limiting the time and support they need to pursue leadership.

🔹 Lack of Access to Networks

Leadership opportunities are often influenced by access to professional networks, mentors, and sponsorships—spaces where women are underrepresented or excluded.

🔹 Unequal Pay and Economic Disparity

The wage gap reduces women’s financial independence and limits their ability to invest in personal development or leadership training.

🔹 Bias and Discrimination

Women often face unconscious bias that questions their competence or leadership style, especially in male-dominated industries.

🔹 Limited Representation

The absence of women in high-level roles leads to a lack of role models, making it harder for young women to visualize and pursue similar paths.

Paving the Path to Equality in Leadership

At The SOL Foundation, we believe that breaking these barriers starts with intentional action. Here’s how we’re helping and what we believe is essential:

✅ Empowering Through Education

Access to quality education is the first step. We support programs that teach leadership skills, public speaking, decision-making, and confidence-building, especially among young girls.

✅ Mentorship and Peer Support

We connect women with mentors who can guide, support, and open doors. Mentorship is powerful—it breaks isolation and builds bridges to opportunity.

✅ Promoting Inclusive Policies

We advocate for environments where inclusive hiring and leadership development practices give women equal opportunities to rise.

✅ Championing Women Entrepreneurs

Through #SOLEmpowernment, we support women building and leading businesses, helping them create not only livelihoods but jobs and impact.

✅ Telling Their Stories

We spotlight women leaders in our communities to inspire others. Representation matters—when women see other women lead, they know they can too.

Let’s Break the Barriers Together

The path to leadership equality isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a societal necessity. Empowered women build stronger communities, champion justice, and drive innovation.

At The SOL Foundation, we’re proud to stand behind women with vision, passion, and purpose. Through #SOLEmpowernment, we are creating opportunities for women to rise, lead, and transform their world.

🔹 Support a woman. Sponsor her growth. Share her story.

🔹 Let’s break the barriers, one leader at a time.

.......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Let's take a look at the comments received from our Instagram Platform: 

@lavingdelegend 

"Society discouraging them being criticize by people." 

@yvmi_02

"Not being heard"

@theadventglobal

"Oh My God! Where do  I start? Lol. As a woman in leadership roles, we face discrimination, harassment, underlying stabbing, comparisons online and offline, assumed that we “are” lucky and don’t deserve where we are and whatnot. It’s not easy being a woman in this world, let alone a leader."

@imahahanoors

"Not getting equal rights"

@_the_quotes_official 

"Gender discrimination and stereotypes"

@foodie__delight___

"That Social biases 👏"

@cozynook.affiliate

"People challenging their authority because of their gender 🙄"

@artventure_of_sam 

"Not considering women as a competition. So, women don’t get the same respect as men in the leadership role. I guess this is the biggest challenge."

@rabiya_shamim.official 

"Not getting their rights"

EMPOWERING WOMEN

 Why This is Our Theme of the Year

At The SOL Foundation, we believe that empowering women is not just an initiative—it’s a necessity for building stronger families, communities, and societies. This year, we are dedicating our efforts to women’s empowerment and gender equality, making it the central theme of our work.

Through our #SOLEmpowerment initiative, we aim to uplift, support, and create opportunities for women to thrive in all aspects of life. 

What is Women’s Empowerment?

Women’s empowerment is about ensuring that women have the tools, resources, and opportunities to reach their full potential. It means giving women:

✅ Access to Education – So they can build knowledge and skills for a better future.

✅ Economic Independence – So they can support themselves and their families.

✅ A Voice in Leadership – So they can shape policies and decisions that affect their lives.

✅ Protection and Rights – So they can live free from violence and discrimination.

When women are empowered, entire communities benefit—children receive better care, economies grow, and societies become more just and inclusive.

Why We Chose Women’s Empowerment as Our Theme of the Year

Women around the world continue to face barriers that limit their potential. Despite progress, gender inequality remains a major issue in education, the workplace, leadership, and personal safety. Here are some of the key challenges women face today:

🔹 Limited Access to Education – Millions of girls still lack access to quality education due to poverty, cultural norms, or conflict.

🔹 Economic Inequality – Women earn less than men for the same work, have fewer business opportunities, and face greater financial instability.

🔹 Gender-Based Violence – Many women experience violence, harassment, and abuse, often with limited legal protection.

🔹 Lack of Representation in Leadership – Women remain underrepresented in government, business, and decision-making roles.

By choosing Women’s Empowerment as our theme this year, we are committing to raising awareness, creating solutions, and taking action to address these challenges.

Introducing #SOLEmpowerment: A Movement for Change

At The SOL Foundation, we are launching #SOLEmpowerment, a key initiative designed to support women’s growth, independence, and success. This initiative includes:

🌟 Educational Programs 

🌟 Entrepreneurship Support

🌟 Community Engagement 

🌟 Advocacy & Awareness 

Through #SOLEmpowerment, we aim to create real, lasting impact—not just for women today, but for future generations.

Join Us in Empowering Women

Women’s empowerment is not just a women’s issue—it is a global issue that requires everyone’s involvement. Whether you are a woman striving for change, an ally supporting equality, or a leader with the power to make a difference, your role is crucial.

💡 How You Can Get Involved:

✔ Share stories of empowered women to inspire others.

✔ Support initiatives that provide education and resources for women.

✔ Mentor and uplift women in your community.

✔ Advocate for policies that promote gender equality.

Together, we can turn empowerment into action and ensure that every woman has the opportunity to succeed.

This is more than just our theme for the year—it’s a movement. And we invite you to be a part of it.

🔹 Follow us and join the conversation using #SOLEmpowernment!

🔹 Let’s make 2025 the year of women’s empowerment.

.......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Take a look at some of the comments from our Instagram Platforms: 

@theadventglobal 

"To me it means when a woman is finally casually independent and able to make her own decisions without any pressure and be sustainable."

@flaviu.soul

"Love and respect to women"

@lavingdelegend

"Where a woman can be a voice of other women out there and can also be independent."

@yvmi_02 

"Being provided with the platform to express themselves.

@zainab_akadir 

"Sense of self worth" 

@_real_rizwana 

"When a woman is financially independent"

3. EDUCATION

 

When you further your own education, you can help others understand the importance and value of our natural resources. Education plays a key role in saving the planet. 

In this chapter we shall be looking at some of the ways how education and knowledge help the planet. 

1. Increased Awareness

Education, particularly environmental education, informs people about the state of the planet. It highlights environmental issues, such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution, making individuals more conscious of their impact.

2. Promotes Sustainable Practices

 Education teaches individuals about sustainable practices, such as energy conservation, waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable agriculture. People who understand these practices are more likely to adopt them in their daily lives.

3. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

 Education enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is vital for addressing complex environmental challenges and finding innovative solutions to sustainability issues.

4. Policy Advocacy

Education empowers individuals to engage in policy advocacy. Informed citizens can influence government policies and support environmental legislation and initiatives.

5. Biodiversity Conservation 

Education about the importance of biodiversity and ecosystems encourages people to protect wildlife and natural habitats, contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts.

5. Reduction of Resource Consumption 

Educated individuals are more likely to reduce their resource consumption, including water, energy, and materials, helping to mitigate environmental degradation.

6. Community Engagement 

Education promotes community involvement in environmental projects. Schools and universities often organize environmental initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility among students.

7. Global Collaboration

Education enables global collaboration. Through international educational programs and partnerships, people from different countries can work together to address global environmental issues.

8. Innovation for Sustainability 

Education drives innovation in sustainable technologies and practices. Educated individuals are more likely to develop and adopt eco-friendly technologies.

9. Economic Impact 

Education contributes to sustainable economic growth. It supports the development of green industries and environmentally friendly job opportunities.

10. Climate Action 

Climate education helps individuals understand the impact of climate change and encourages them to take actions to reduce carbon emissions, such as using public transportation and adopting renewable energy sources.

11. Responsible Consumer Choices

Education informs consumers about the environmental impact of their choices. Informed consumers make more sustainable decisions when buying products and services.

12. Crisis Preparedness

Education prepares communities to respond to environmental disasters. Understanding disaster management and preparedness can save lives and reduce environmental damage during crises.

13. Long-Term Thinking

Education instills a sense of responsibility for future generations. It encourages people to think beyond their lifetimes and consider the impact of their actions on the planet's future.

14. Cultural Appreciation

Education fosters an appreciation for the natural world and cultural practices that promote environmental conservation. This understanding helps preserve traditional knowledge and practices that are essential for sustainability.

Education is a powerful tool for raising awareness, promoting sustainable practices, fostering critical thinking, and driving change. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges, education plays a pivotal role in the collective effort to save the planet!

Take a look at what our viewers on Instagram have to say: 

@real_rizwana -

" More awareness and knowledge"

@aisha_bagha -

"Raises awareness on many issues affecting the planet" 

KENYAN SCHOOL GARDEN TREES

 Introduction 

The School Garden project initiated by SOL in collaboration with different partners aims to create a safe and productive environment for the underprivileged communities in rural Kenya. 

Schools are then trained to plant their own trees , hence able to provide food and nutrition for their members. The gardens have also helped provide income. 

We all grateful to all the local organizations, schools, teachers, students and most of all the contributors who have helped achieve this goal. 

This blog series will focus on the different trees which have been planted in the gardens, their location and their benefits. 

Together we can help achieve all the zero hunger goals and end hunger. 

IMPORTANCE OF GOING GREEN

Going green has huge effects on our body, mind, relationships, and the world around us in many ways. Our environment can either increase or reduce stress; hence impact the body. The things we see, experience or hear can change our mood and how our immune, endocrine, and nervous system function.

A stressful environment causes anxiety which in turn elevates blood pressure, muscle tension, and heart rate and going green reverses these impacts. A natural environment is a stress reliever, it heals and makes you feel better emotionally and contributes to your physical wellbeing. It helps us cope with pain. This is because trees, water, plants and other natural elements distract us from pain and discomfort.

A green environment also helps us to connect with others. People who have green space around their homes build more relationships and are concerned about supporting each other. Such also lowers aggression, violence, and street crime between people meaning a better capacity to cope with the daily demands. 

Going green creates a healthy living environment and also improves lifestyle. 

Reduce resources consumption and eliminate wastes.

Conserve natural resources and forests.

Maintain the natural ecological balance on earth so that all living things can survive and thrive in their natural habitat.

Use of fossil fuels like petroleum, natural gas, and coal, and burning wood produce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and many harmful chemicals that pollute the air and have serious consequences on environment and people's health.

Such measures can save lives, because air pollution has become "a major environmental health risk," according to the World Health Organization (WHO), that has led to the premature death of 3 million people. Decreasing air pollutants would reduce water pollution by decreasing acid rain and eutrophication that can harm to wildlife especially in aquatic environments, and crops and trees report Massachusetts' Department of Environmental Protection.

Save Biodiversity and Human Livelihoods.

These are just some of the importance of going green, there are countless more economic, environmental and personal benefits of going green and living a sustainable life. 

POLLUTION CONTROL

The presence of environmental pollution raises the issue of pollution control. Pollution control is the process of reducing or eliminating the release of pollutants into the environment . It is regulated by various environmental agencies which establish pollutant discharge limits for air, water, and land.

Pollution prevention (P2) is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source. P2, also known as "source reduction," is the ounce-of-prevention approach to waste management. Reducing the amount of pollution produced means less waste to control, treat, or dispose of. Less pollution means less hazards posed to public health and the environment.

Everyone is a stakeholder as we are all inhabitants of this one and only mother Earth. Each person can contribute something to advance environmental pollution mitigation measures. Environmental protection means caring for our resources and subsequently for ourselves and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come will have a better environment.

By becoming aware and doing the right action, we choose to be part of the solution. Here are a few reminders and tips to reduce/prevent/control pollution: 

• Stop smoking or at least follow the “No Smoking” sign.
• Use unleaded gasoline in your cars.
• Keep your car properly maintained to keep it in good running condition to avoid smoke emissions.
• Share a ride or engage in car pooling.
• Instead of using your cars, choose to walk or ride a bicycle whenever possible. With this eco-friendly practice, you will also be healthier and happier by staying fit.
• Never use open fires to dispose of wastes.
• Adopt the 3Rs of solid waste management: reduce, reuse and recycle. Inorganic materials such as metals, glass and plastic; also organic materials like paper, can be reclaimed and recycled. This takes into account that the proven solution to the problem of proper waste management (especially in third world countries) is proper disposal (in waste bins for collection and not in the street where it could fall into drains), waste segregation and collection, and recycling.
• Start composting brown leaves in your yard and green scraps from your kitchen. It will reduce waste while improving your yard and garden soils.
• Reconnect with nature. Live green by using green power supplied abundantly and freely by wind and the sun. Hang your laundry to dry to minimize use of gas or electricity from your dryers. Enjoy fresh air from open windows to lessen the use of air conditioning system.
• Patronize local foods and goods. In this manner, transporting goods and foods prepared with GMOs which uses fuel from conventional energy sources will be minimized.
• Use eco-friendly or biodegradable materials instead of plastic which are made up of highly toxic substances injurious to your health.
• Create your green space. Value your garden. Plant more trees and put indoor plants in your homes. They clean the air, provide oxygen and beautify your surroundings. Thus, care for them and by protecting them, especially the big trees around and in the forest, you protect yourself and your family, too.
• Have a proper waste disposal system especially for toxic wastes
• Take very good care of your pets and their wastes.
• Never throw, run or drain or dispose into the water, air, or land any substance in solid, liquid or gaseous form that shall cause pollution.
• Do not cause loud noises and unwanted sounds to avoid noise pollution.
• Do not litter in public places. Anti-litter campaigns can educate the populace.
• Industries should use fuel with lower sulphur content.
• Industries should monitor their air emissions regularly and take measures to ensure compliance with the prescribed emission standards.
• Industries should strictly follow applicable government regulations on pollution control.
• Organic waste should be dumped in places far from residential areas.
• Conserve energy - at home, at work, everywhere.
• Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying home or office equipment.
• Follow gasoline refueling instructions for efficient vapor recovery, being careful not to spill fuel and always tightening your gas cap securely. Consider purchasing portable gasoline containers labeled “spill-proof,” where available.
• Keep car, boat, and other engines properly tuned.
• Be sure your tires are properly inflated.
• Use environmentally safe paints and cleaning products whenever possible.
• Consider using gas logs instead of wood.

 Change starts from us. 

A small action done by many can make a huge difference. 

Leave a better world than what you came into.

The best gift to our children is a cleaner environment.

Together let us protect our home. 

PROTECTING EXISTING TREES part 2

In our last chapter, we listed down the dangers to existing plants and trees and what can damage or kill them. Since we have figured that out we now focus on how to protect them. We will list down the points and highlight others in the coming chapters.

Here is how we can protect plants/trees that are already there:

• Use less paper 
• Prevent unwarranted tree cutting 
• Finding an alternative to the use of wood
• Educating people on the benefits of trees
• Population control
• Curbing industrialization 
• Reducing mining and other harmful activities that lead to natural disasters such as floods and cyclones
• Avoid driving nails into trees to hand bird feeds
• Don't unnecessary pull barks of trees, hit or bend them 
• When moving the lawn avoid bumping of scraping into trees
• Support NGOs that specialize in protecting forests or those that  monitor activities to prevent and control forest fires, insect infestations and disease epidemic

Above all love your trees. Just like any other living organism trees need love and care to survive. 

PROTECTING EXISTING TREES part 1

Before we start planting new trees we need to educate ourselves on how to protect the existing ones.Here is a list of the dangers to existing trees:

• Adverse environment

• Harmful insects and diseases such as Dutch elm disease and the chestnut blight have caused sudden death to entire forests in North America. 

• Catastrophic events 

• Timber harvest 

• Staking (using ropes to support) a tree too much

• Hanging bird feeders with screws or nails on the tree

• Pruning your tree in the wrong season 

• Filling tree cavities with concrete

• Planting too many plants or trees in a small area

Some contributions from our The Seed of Life family from Facebook:

Diane M Tuttle -

Invasive pest, poison ivy, English ivy

Gk KNature - 

Powerful cyclone due to imbalance in sea temperature

Muhammath Zizz - 

Personal gain, cutting trees for sale i.e. timber/charcoals etc..before cutting down one tree, plant at least 3-4

Elizabeth Larkin -

Rot, lightening, climate change, humans and beetle invasions. 

Gwen R. Christopher - 

I think humans upsetting the balance is the root cause of the killing of existing trees, whether it's disease, insect infestation, invasive species or deforestation. Humans are the enemy.

Annette Hein - 

Excessive use of salt in water, constant exposure to herbicides and pesticides for trees that grow in urban and suburban environment. Introduction of invasive vines and insects that kill off our trees. 

Tom Swift - 

Roundup on the ground within the drip line will destroy trees. 

Part 6: INDIVIDUAL POLICIES

As discussed in our previous chapters, deforestation does more destruction than good for our environment and society. We will now focus on what measures we can put down for reforestation. In this chapter we focus on individual policies. What can you do to reduce deforestation and its negative effects.

1. Education

• Educating yourself and passing it on to others is the first step you can take towards reforestation. Get to know what deforestation is and its effect and the seriousness of how its affecting you and your future generations.
• Online material can be found from sites like National Geographic. Books available include Global Deforestation by Paolo D'Odorico and Forests and Climate Change: The Social Dimensions of REDD in Latin America by Anthony Hall. Alternatively you can listen to podcasts with Thomas Mann or Jonah Busch regarding deforestation or watch YouTube videos regarding the same from National Geographic. 

2. Use Renewable Wood Resources

• Sustainable, locally sourced wood can be used and charcoal for cooking or heating homes is a great alternative to fossil fuels especially if locally sourced. 

3. Reduce Meat Consumption 

• The consumption of meat has a major effect on deforestation because producing meat, particularly beef, uses large amounts of land. In recent years, much of the new land for meat production has come from clearing tropical forests. 

4. Reduce Consumption of Palm-oil based Products

• Today palm oil production is the largest cause of deforestation in Indonesia and other equatorial countries with dwindling expanses of tropical rainforest. Indonesia's endangered orangutan population, which depends upon the rainforest, has dwindled by as much as 50% in recent years. 

5. Reduce the Use of Paper

• Instead use recycled paper products including printing paper, notebooks, napkins and toilet paper. 
• Adapt to simple habits such as trying to print or write on both sides of paper, using less toilet paper and avoiding paper plates and napkins in order to reduce paper wastage. 
• Use paper alternatives such as wood-free uncoated paper and cotton paper.  

 6. Purchase from sustainable companies

• Purchase from companies who are committed to reducing deforestation such as Nestlé, L'Oréal and Unilever. 

 7.  Plant Trees

• Planting a tree is one of the easiest and powerful methods of combating deforestation log onto https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/ to plant a tree from your personal space. 
• You can also own an indoor garden or take care of a potted plant and later release is to the forest. 

 8. Use bio-degradable products

• Buy recycled products or use products which you can recycle them. Be considerate and avoid wastage and responsibly dispose off waste ( Recycle them! ) 
• You can purchase products such as plantable pencils, handmade soaps and bamboo toothbrushes from Go Green with Chilo & Pri based in Mombasa, Kenya. 
• Other companies selling re-usable products include Worldcentric for biodegradable bags, dishware and cutlery, papelyco for plantable plates, Tipa for biodegradable flexible plastic among others. 

 9. Practice Zero-Waste

• Zero- waste means to generate little or no waste. We should buy only what we need and reuse whenever possible. Let us try to be considerate about our environment protecting our trees and helping those who cannot meet their basic needs by practicing zero waste in every aspect of our lives. 

There are many other ways that an individual can help save our beloved trees from being cut down. Remember charity begins from home and you need to practice these and more methods to conserve our environment before you tell others to do so.

Let us take a small initiative today towards reforestation and help make a difference in the lives of our coming generations.