[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 13 (Monday, February 14, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E132]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO CARETAKERS OF THE ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN EDWARD PORTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 14, 2000

  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I can think of no better way to safeguard 
the world's natural resources than to arm today's youth with the tools 
necessary to preserve our precious environment.
  That's exactly the mission of Caretakers of the Environment 
International, a Pied Piper of sorts that leads youth along with a path 
of environmental awareness and activism. Young people from around the 
world answer the call of this nonprofit organization. They are taught 
the scientific lessons and practical skills to become environmental 
leaders.
  A hallmark of the organization's activities each year is its annual 
conference where the host country becomes a laboratory to explore the 
conference theme. Past conferences have probed such environmental 
themes as the ``Arctic and the Environment,'' ``Development and 
Research in Environmental Education,'' and ``Tourism and the 
Environment.'' Costa Rica's tropical ecosystems were the backdrop last 
year for the 13th annual conference where 122 highly motivated students 
and teachers learned through workshops, field trips and social 
activities. Delegates visited rainforests, volcanoes and Pacific Ocean 
beaches to learn about biodiversity from expert guides.
  This year marks the 10th anniversary of Caretakers of the 
Environment-USA, an American affiliate of the international group. 
Caretakers/USA reaches out to high school students and teachers--with 
diverse interests and abilities--and involves them in community action 
that develops a spirit of national and international cooperation for 
environmental problem solving.
  Undoubtedly, Caretakers' efforts to improve science education 
encourage young people to pursue environmental careers that will help 
protect the world's environment. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the activities 
of Caretakers of the Environment and hope that my colleagues will join 
me in supporting its efforts.

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