Mediart Blog

Celebrating World Ocean Day: Preserving the Lifeline of Our Planet

8/6/2023

World Ocean Day, observed on June 8th every year, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the crucial role that oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. As the world's largest ecosystem, the oceans generate over half of the planet's oxygen, provide food and livelihoods for millions of people, regulate the climate, and support an incredible diversity of marine life. This article celebrates World Ocean Day by emphasizing the importance of preserving and protecting our oceans for the well-being of current and future generations.

A Call for Action:

World Ocean Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to take action to address the challenges facing our oceans. One of the primary concerns is pollution, particularly plastic waste. Each year, an estimated eight million metric tons of plastic end up in the oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems. Adopting sustainable practices such as reducing plastic consumption, recycling, and supporting initiatives that promote proper waste management are vital steps we can take to mitigate this issue.

Preserving Marine Biodiversity:

The oceans are home to a vast array of species, many of which remain undiscovered. However, marine biodiversity is under significant threat due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. Protecting marine ecosystems and establishing marine protected areas are essential for preserving biodiversity and allowing ecosystems to recover. By supporting sustainable fishing practices and advocating for the conservation of vulnerable species, we can ensure the long-term health of our oceans.

Climate Change and the Oceans:

Climate change is causing widespread impacts on the oceans, including rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and more frequent and severe storms. These changes have significant implications for coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and the overall balance of the planet. Addressing climate change requires collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and promote sustainable land and ocean management practices.

Conclusion:

World Ocean Day serves as a powerful reminder that the well-being of our planet is intricately tied to the health of our oceans. By taking collective action to address pollution, preserve biodiversity, tackle climate change, and promote responsible tourism, we can contribute to a sustainable future for our oceans. Let us use this day as an opportunity to celebrate and protect this invaluable resource that sustains life on Earth and ensure a legacy of thriving oceans for generations to come.

Amelia Lamberet

Amelia is a French Praxis volunteer involved with World Ocean Day.

Nurturing a Sustainable Future.

5/6/2023

World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5th,Established by the United Nations in 1972 is a global initiative that encourages worldwide awareness and action for the protection and preservation of our environment.
This day serves as a platform to address pressing environmental challenges and advocate for sustainable practices. As our planet faces increasing threats, World Environment Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to safeguard the Earth and foster a sustainable future for generations to come.Each year, World Environment Day focuses on a specific theme to rally global participation.
The theme for 2023 is "Restoring Our Earth," emphasizing the urgent need for environmental restoration, rejuvenation, and healing. It calls upon individuals, communities, and nations to take concrete actions to address environmental degradation and restore ecosystems that have been damaged.
The world today faces numerous environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and the depletion of natural resources. These issues threaten the delicate balance of ecosystems, human health, and overall well-being. However, the observance of World Environment Day highlights the many inspiring initiatives and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring our planet.Reforestation and afforestation:
The restoration of forests plays a vital role in mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and supporting livelihoods. Organizations and communities around the world are actively engaged in reforestation and afforestation projects, planting trees and promoting sustainable land management practices to restore degraded ecosystems.Reforestation and afforestation,such as sustainable agriculture and food systems,conservation of marine ecosystems and renewable energy transition.
World Environment Day is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in restoring and protecting the environment. Here are some actions individuals can take:

Reduce, reuse, and recycle: Practice responsible consumption by minimizing waste and recycling materials wherever possible.
Conserve water and energy: Adopt water-saving habits, use energy-efficient appliances, and promote renewable energy sources.
Support sustainable practices: Purchase eco-friendly products, support local and sustainable businesses, and engage in community initiatives focused on environmental restoration.
Advocate for change: Raise awareness, engage in environmental discussions, and support policies that promote sustainability at local, national, and global levels.

World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to restore and protect our planet. By embracing sustainable practices, conserving resources, and actively participating in restoration efforts, we can collectively work towards a healthier, greener future. The time to act is now, and through individual action and global collaboration, we can make a significant impact in restoring our Earth and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

Dorian DUBOIS

Dorian is a French Praxis volunteer involved with World Environment Day

What is WNTD ?

31/5/2023

WNTD or World No Tobacco Day is an initiative created by the World Health Organization with the objective of making people stop smoking WNTD was first celebrated April 77th of 1987 and moved to the 31th of may a year later.

Source : “eigenhändig fotografiert”
This ashtray with a flower is the symbol of World No Tobacco Day.
The WHO(World Health Organization) every year tries to make more and more people stop smoking by focusing on one aspect of why the tobacco industry is bad such as in the fields of economy, environment and finance, they also denounce the actions of the tobacco industry like the WHO wants to increasing taxes on tobacco products is an effective measure to reduce affordability and discourage consumption. Higher prices make tobacco products less accessible, especially for young people and low-income individuals.
The theme of World No Tobacco Day often focuses on supporting tobacco users in their journey to quit. By offering resources, tools, and information on cessation methods, the day empowers individuals to make positive changes in their lives and overcome tobacco addiction. World No Tobacco Day emphasizes the need for effective tobacco control policies and interventions.

It calls for increased regulation, such as higher taxes on tobacco products, comprehensive advertising bans, and the implementation of smoke-free environments.
This advocacy helps governments and organizations develop and enforce policies to protect public health.The significance of WNTD extends beyond a single day of observance. The campaign aims to create lasting behavioral changes and policy shifts that lead to reduced tobacco consumption and improved public health outcomes in the long run.
In summary, World No Tobacco Day holds immense significance as a global platform to raise awareness, promote health, support quitting efforts, advocate for effective policies, foster international collaboration, engage the public, and achieve long-term impact in the fight against tobacco use. It plays a vital role in shaping a healthier and tobacco-free future for individuals and communities worldwide.

Dorian DUBOIS.

Dorian is a french praxis volunteer involved with World No Tobacco Day.

The Western Sahara Conflict: A Quest for Self-Determination and Stability

26/5/2023

Title: The Western Sahara Conflict: A Quest for Self-Determination and Stability
Introduction: The Western Sahara conflict has remained a pressing issue in the international arena for decades. Rooted in questions of sovereignty and self-determination, this dispute between Morocco and the Polisario Front has far-reaching implications for the Sahrawi people and regional stability. Understanding the importance of resolving this conflict is crucial for promoting justice, human rights, and lasting peace in the region.
The Struggle for Self-Determination: At its core, the Western Sahara conflict revolves around the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people. The Sahrawis, indigenous to the territory, have long aspired to determine their own political status and future. The Polisario Front, representing the Sahrawi people, advocates for independence and the establishment of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). On the other hand, Morocco asserts its sovereignty over Western Sahara and has implemented de facto control over the majority of the territory.
Human Rights and Stability: The conflict in Western Sahara has raised concerns about human rights abuses and the well-being of the Sahrawi population. Reports of arbitrary detentions, limitations on freedom of expression, and restrictions on peaceful protests have drawn international attention. Addressing these human rights challenges is essential to ensure the dignity and protection of all individuals in the region.
Moreover, the resolution of the Western Sahara conflict holds significant implications for regional stability. Protracted disputes can have spill-over effects, including cross-border tensions and potential risks to peace and security. A peaceful resolution would contribute to stability in North Africa and create opportunities for increased cooperation among neighboring countries.
Natural Resources and Economic Development: Western Sahara is known for its rich reserves of phosphates and fisheries, which hold economic importance for the region. The exploitation of these resources has been a contentious issue, with questions surrounding ownership, control, and equitable distribution of benefits. A resolution of the conflict would allow for the responsible management of resources, fostering sustainable economic development and prosperity for the Sahrawi people.
International Efforts and the Role of the United Nations: The United Nations has been actively involved in facilitating negotiations between the parties, seeking a mutually acceptable political solution. The United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) has been working to monitor the ceasefire and create conditions for a referendum on self-determination. However, challenges related to voter eligibility criteria and divergent positions have hindered progress.
The importance of resolving the Western Sahara conflict lies in upholding the principles of justice, self-determination, and human rights. It is crucial to ensure the voices and aspirations of the Sahrawi people are heard and respected. A just and lasting solution would promote stability, foster regional cooperation, and provide the foundation for a prosperous future for all stakeholders in the region.
Conclusion: The Western Sahara conflict remains an issue of great importance, impacting the lives of the Sahrawi people and regional stability. Resolving this protracted dispute through peaceful means, dialogue, and respect for human rights is essential. The international community, including neighboring countries, must continue to support efforts towards a just and lasting solution, upholding the principles of self-determination and promoting a future of peace, prosperity, and dignity for all in Western Sahara.

Théo Bonetto

Théo is a french volunteer involved with the Week of solidarity with Non self-gouverning country

World Bee Day : Celebrating Our Precious Pollinators !

23/5/2023

Every year on May 20th, people around the world celebrate World Bee Day to raise
awareness about the importance of bees in our ecosystem. Bees are vital pollinators that
play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet. Without them, many of the fruits
and vegetables we rely on for food would not exist. In this article, well explore why bees are
so important, how they help us, and what we can do to protect them.

Why Are Bees So Important ?
Bees are responsible for pollinating around one-third of the worlds crops, including fruits,
vegetables, nuts, and seeds. They transfer pollen from male flowers to female flowers,
allowing them to produce seeds and fruit. Without bees, many of these plants would not be
able to reproduce, leading to a decline in food production and biodiversity.
In addition to their role as pollinators, bees also play a crucial role in maintaining the balance
of ecosystems. They help to pollinate wildflowers and other plants that provide habitat and
food for other wildlife, including birds and mammals. Bees also help to maintain soil health
by pollinating plants that are essential for soil structure and fertility.
How Do Bees Help Us ?
Bees play an important role in agriculture by helping to pollinate crops. Farmers rely on bees
to ensure that their crops produce a good yield, which helps to feed people around the world.
In addition, bees also produce honey, which has been used for centuries as a natural
sweetener and medicine.

Bees are also important indicators of environmental health. Their decline in recent years has
been linked to a range of factors, including habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
By monitoring bee populations, scientists can gain insights into the health of our environment
and take action to protect it.
What Can We Do to Protect Bees ?
There are many things that we can do to help protect bees and ensure their survival. Here
are a few simple steps that you can take :
● Plant bee-friendly flowers in your garden or on your balcony. Bees rely on flowers for
food and habitat, so planting a variety of flowers can help to support their
populations.
● Avoid using pesticides and chemicals in your garden. Many pesticides are toxic to
bees and can harm their health.
● Support local beekeepers by buying honey from them. This helps to support the local
economy and encourages beekeeping as a sustainable practice.
● Educate others about the importance of bees. Spread the word about the vital role
that bees play in our ecosystem and encourage others to take action to protect them.
One Last Word
World Bee Day is an important reminder of the vital role that bees play in our ecosystem. By
taking simple steps to protect bees, we can help to ensure their survival and support the
health of our planet. So, lets celebrate our precious pollinators and take action to protect
them for future generations !

Arthur Otin

Arthur is a French voluteer invoveld with World bee day

Celebrating International Museum Day: A Global Tribute to Cultural Heritage

22/5/2023

Every year on May 18th, the world comes together to celebrate International Museum Day. This
special occasion serves as a reminder of the invaluable role museums play in preserving and
showcasing our diverse cultural heritage. From ancient artifacts to contemporary artworks,
museums serve as gateways to the past, present, and future, offering enriching experiences and
insights into different societies and civilizations. Let us delve into the significance of International
Museum Day and the profound impact museums have on our collective understanding of humanity.
Preserving History: Museums are custodians of our history, safeguarding and exhibiting artifacts and
objects that narrate stories of the past. They meticulously preserve archaeological treasures,
religious artifacts, historical documents, and other cultural relics. By protecting these valuable
pieces, museums ensure that future generations can connect with their roots and learn from the
experiences of their ancestors.
Promoting Cultural Diversity: International Museum Day underscores the importance of embracing
cultural diversity. Museums serve as platforms for cross-cultural exchange, fostering understanding,
tolerance, and appreciation for different traditions and customs. Through exhibits, interactive
displays, and educational programs, museums encourage visitors to explore diverse cultures,
challenging preconceived notions and nurturing a spirit of inclusivity.
Educational Opportunities: Museums offer unparalleled educational opportunities for people of all
ages. They provide a unique learning environment where visitors can engage with history, science,
art, and various other disciplines. Interactive displays, workshops, and guided tours enable
individuals to delve deeper into subjects, igniting curiosity and fostering a love for lifelong learning.
Schools often organize field trips to museums, enabling students to augment their academic
knowledge through experiential learning.
International Museum Day stands as a testament to the universal significance of museums in
preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage. These remarkable institutions bridge the gap
between the past, present, and future, nurturing a sense of identity, fostering appreciation for
diversity, and promoting lifelong learning. As we commemorate this day, let us recognize the vital
role museums play in shaping our understanding of the world and reaffirm our commitment to
supporting these invaluable institutions for generations to come.

Amélia Lamberet

Amélia is a French vonlunteer invoveld for the Wolrd day of Museum

WORLD TELECOMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SOCIETY DAY

19/5/2023

In 2007, Apple revolutionized the world of mobile technology with the introduction of the iPhone. Up until that point, smartphones were clunky, difficult to use, and lacked many of the features that people now take for granted, such as a touch screen interface and easy access to the internet. But with the iPhone, Apple changed all that, creating a sleek and intuitive device that quickly became a game-changer in the world of smartphones.

The first iPhone was introduced by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs in January 2007. Jobs called it a "revolutionary and magical product" that would change the way people use their phones forever. And he was right. The iPhone featured a large touch screen display, a sleek design, and advanced features such as internet access, email, and music playback.

The iPhone was an instant hit, with long lines of customers waiting outside Apple stores to get their hands on the new device. Critics praised the iPhone's design, ease of use, and intuitive interface. And consumers quickly embraced the new device, using it to do everything from staying connected with friends and family to browsing the web, checking email, and listening to music.

Over the years, Apple has continued to refine and improve the iPhone, introducing new features and capabilities with each new model. The iPhone 3G, released in 2008, added support for faster 3G data networks and enabled users to download apps from the newly launched App Store. The iPhone 4, released in 2010, featured a sleek new design and a high-resolution "Retina" display. And the iPhone 5, released in 2012, introduced 4G LTE connectivity and a larger display.

In addition to hardware improvements, Apple has also continued to innovate with its software. The release of iOS, Apple's mobile operating system, has enabled the iPhone to offer features such as Siri, the voice-activated assistant, and iCloud, the cloud storage and synchronization service.

Today, the iPhone remains one of the most popular smartphones on the market, with millions of users around the world. And with each new release, the iPhone continues to evolve and innovate, introducing new features and capabilities that push the boundaries of what is possible with a mobile device. From video calling and mobile payments to augmented reality and 5G connectivity, the iPhone has transformed the way people communicate, work, and play.

Mohamed Frah

Mohamed is a French volunteer involved with the world day of Telecommunication and Information

WORLD MIGRATORY BIRD DAY

15/5/2023

MIGRATORY BIRDS ARE CELEBRATED TWICE A YEAR OVER 2 DAYS : MAY 13 AND OCTOBER 14.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT ?

THIS DAY IS AN AWARENESS CAMPAIGN THAT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSERVING MIGRATORY BIRDS AND THEIR HABITATS. IT’S AN EFFECTIVE TOOL TO HELP RAISE GLOBAL AWARENESS OF THE THREATS TO MIGRATORY BIRDS, THEIR ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE AND THE NEED FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION TO CONSERVE THEM.

ALMOST HALF OF BIRD SPECIES MIGRATE EACH YEAR. THE BIRDS FLEE TO AVOID THE COLD AND HARSH WINTER, BUT ABOVE ALL THEY FLEE THE LACK OF FOOD RESOURCES THAT OCCURS AT THIS TIME OF YEAR, AND GO LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR FOOD. BIRDS ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR WARMER PLACES AND A PLACE WHERE FOOD IS AVAILABLE AND SAFE FOR THE MATING PROCESS.

AROUND 4000 SPECIES OF BIRDS MIGRATE REGULARLY, AND THIS REPRESENTS AROUND 40% OF THE TOTAL NUMBER OF BIRD SPECIES IN THE WORLD.

SOME SPECIES OF MIGRATORY BIRDS CAN TRAVEL THOUSANDS OF MILES ON THEIR ANNUAL FLIGHT, AND SOMEHOW THEY CAN FIND THEIR WINTER HOME AND RETURN THE FOLLOWING SPRING TO WHERE THEY WERE BORN.

DURING MAJOR MIGRATORY FLOWS, THERE IS GENERALLY A PEAK IN MIGRATORY ACTIVITY FROM SUNSET UNTIL MIDNIGHT OR EVEN 1 A.M., FOLLOWED BY A DECREASE IN THIS ACTIVITY THE REST OF THE NIGHT. AT DAWN, THE NUMBER OF BIRDS IN FLIGHT INCREASES AGAIN, FOR DIURNAL MIGRANTS THIS TIME.

A BETTER PROTECTION OF THESE ANIMALS REQUIRES A GOOD KNOWLEDGE OF THEIR MIGRATIONS

THE TRAJECTORY OF MIGRATORY BIRDS

IN EARLY FALL, MANY BIRDS MIGRATE LONG DISTANCES, MAINLY FROM TEMPERATE ZONES, SOUTHWARD, THEN RETURN NORTHWARD DURING SPRING.

MIGRATORY BIRDS CROSS CONTINENTS AND OCEANS WITHOUT EVER GETTING LOST. SCIENTISTS HAVE TRIED TO DECIPHER THESE ABILITIES. RESULT: LIKE THE GREAT NAVIGATORS, THEY LOOK AT THE SKY. THESE MARKERS ALLOW THEM TO POSITION THEMSELVES IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, BUT ALSO TO REGULATE THEIR ANNUAL MIGRATION: WHEN THE DURATION OF DAYLIGHT DECREASES, IT’S TIME TO LEAVE. THEY ARE ALSO ABLE TO KNOW THE TIME OF DAY, BY ANALYZING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, THUS JUDGING THE TIME REMAINING BEFORE IT SETS. NOCTURNAL INDIVIDUALS FLY LOOKING AT THE STARS. SCIENTISTS HAVE PROVEN THIS BY PLACING BIRDS IN A PLANETARIUM AND ARTIFICIALLY MOVING THE STARS.

TO GUIDE THEMSELVES, BIRDS THAT MIGRATE BY DAY CAN ALSO USE LANDMARKS ON THE GROUND SUCH AS MOUNTAINS, RIVERS, COASTS, ETC. AS WELL AS TERRESTRIAL MAGNETISM. SOME BIRDS HAVE MAGNETIC SENSORS IN THEIR EYES AND LODESTONE (A MINERAL THAT ACTS LIKE A MAGNET) IN THEIR BEAKS, WHICH HELP THEM ORIENT THEIR FLIGHT. THIS MODE OF NAVIGATION IS FACILITATED AT THE POLES, WHERE THE LINES OF THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD CONVERGE, BECOMING STRONGER. ON THE OTHER HAND, NEAR THE EQUATOR, IT IS DIFFICULT TO RELY ON THIS NATURAL GPS.

Bénédicte Lopez

Bénédicte is a french volunteer invoveld for the world migratory Bird Day

why does the freedom of press is important !

9/5/2023

Imagine you love playing with your friends and you have a game that you all like to play every day. But one day, someone decides to hide all the rules of the game and only gives them to a few of your friends. The others wouldn't know how to play properly, right? That wouldn't be fair, would it?

Well, that's a bit like freedom of the press. The press is like a big game where journalists write stories and share them with everyone. These stories help us know what's happening in our world, learn new things, and understand the decisions that important people make. It's like the rules of the game of society, but in real life.

Freedom of the press means that journalists can write and say whatever they want, without anyone stopping them. It means they can share important information and tell the truth about what's going on, even if some people don't like what they're saying. It's like everyone having the same rules of the game and being able to play fairly.

Freedom of the press is important because it allows us to know what's happening in the world, ask questions, and make informed decisions. It helps us understand our society and stay informed about things that interest us. That's why it's important for journalists to be free to share their stories with everyone, so that we can all play fairly in the big game of society.

Théo Bonetto

Théo is a french volunteer involved in the press freedom Day

International Day of Biodiversity (May 22)

4/5/2023

The International Day of Biodiversity is an international day created in 1993 by the United Nations and set on May 22 since 2000.
This global campaign, led by the United Nations General Assembly, raises awareness of the wealth of plant and animal species on Earth. In December 2000, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety met in Montpellier, France, for the second meeting prior to the adoption of the text of the Convention on Biological Diversity, which moved the International Day for Biological Diversity to May 22.
Biological diversity is the term used to describe all forms of life on Earth and its natural characteristics.
This diversity is generally explained in terms of the wide range of plants, animals and microorganisms. But biodiversity also extends to the genetic differences within each species.
Biodiversity also provides countless services, both locally and globally. Fish provide 20% of the protein intake for about three billion people. More than 80% of human nutrition is provided by plants. Nearly 80% of people in rural areas of developing countries rely on traditional plant-based medicines for basic health care.
But biodiversity loss threatens everyone, including our health. Loss of biodiversity has been shown to spread zoonotic diseases - infectious diseases transmitted from animals to humans - while, on the other hand, if we keep biodiversity intact, it provides excellent tools to fight pandemics, such as those caused by coronaviruses.
The Convention on Biological Diversity, which entered into force in 1993, has as its objectives the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and genetic resources, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from their use. Deeply concerned about the continuing loss of biological diversity worldwide, the United Nations General Assembly decided to proclaim May 22, the date of the adoption of the text of the Convention, as the International Day for Biological Diversity

Agnès Amorosetti

Agnès is a french volunteer involved for the World day of Biodiversity