JET's Earth Day Celebrations Well Received

 

The Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) celebrated the Caribbean Endemic Bird festival on Earth Day, April 22, 2008 under the theme “Climate change: Its effect on Jamaica’s coastal ecosystems, endemic and migratory birds.” 

Approximately 320 visitors, including teachers and students from 20 schools in Kingston, St. Andrew and St. Catherine attended the festival. Some of the featured activities included a simulated bird watching trail, video presentations by JET and Birdlife Jamaica, games, art and craft activities, a poster competition and performances by students. 

Representative from the United Nations Environment Programme speaks to students of Queens Prep at Earth Day 2008 (Photo: Lenox Quallo)

Wolmer’s High School for Girls won first place in both the song and poster competitions, while St. Jago Preparatory held the lead in the poetry competition. The students’ knowledge and enthusiasm shone through with many other participating schools doing well. 

“The students enjoyed everything; the refreshments and activities and entertainment,” said Ann-Maria Cassi, the environment club coordinator for New Day Primary and Junior High School. “Overall it was great and they were very excited about having come 3^rd in the song competition. The junior high students were jealous of them since it was the primary students that went and they are looking forward to coming again next year,” she added. 

The students and teachers were also invited to view exhibits from a number of agencies, among them: United Nations Environment Programme, the Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust, the Jamaica Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the National Environment and Planning Agency. 

Now in its 7^th year, Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, was coordinated by the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds (SCSCB). Jamaica was one of many countries that participated in this year’s celebration, which is recognized throughout the Caribbean from April 22^nd (Earth Day) to May 22^nd (International Biodiversity Day).