Local craftsmen in Ghana have been trained by Bamboo Bikes Limited to manufacture quality bicycles with bamboo frames. Photo courtesy of the SYTO

In rural areas of Ghana, the Student and Youth Travel Organization (SYTO) works to arrange volunteering trips, internships, homestays and cultural exchanges for foreign visitors. To reach and get around the most remote and underserved villages of rural Ghana, these visitors need transportation on which they can rely; however, they often find that there is nothing suitable in their village destinations.

Meanwhile, in Kumasi, Ghana, one operation, called Bamboo Bikes Limited, has blossomed from its small-scale experimental beginnings into a large-scale producer of just what SYTO volunteers need: bikes made out of bamboo. SYTO is therefore a proud supporter of Bamboo Bikes Limited and uses this local producer to supply what it needs for volunteers headed places that are all but inaccessible by public transport.

Bamboo Beginnings

Bamboo Bikes Limited came about as part of the Millennium Cities Initiative of Columbia University. First, the Bamboo Bike Project at the Earth Institute of Columbia University assembled a team of engineers to design a prototype and then provided technical training to local people in Ghana. The idea was to create a light, strong, affordable bicycle constructed entirely of local material and able to be assembled using local labour.

At the Bamboo Bikes Limited headquarters in Kumasi, Ghana, four finished bamboo bikes are ready for shipping. Photo courtesy of the SYTO

Now, two years later, Bamboo Bikes Limited is operational and growing. During a two-week training program earlier this year, it began the production of 750 bikes for a test run. Its ultimate goal is to put 20,000 bikes per year on the road, which would go a long way toward meeting the transportation needs of Ghana’s rural communities.

Benefits of Bamboo

Bamboo bikes are beneficial in a number of ways. First, the primary material used is biodegradable, which is easier on the environment than other materials used in building bikes. Second, the bikes are manufactured locally by trained community craftsmen, thereby creating employment for the local people. The bikes are most useful in rural areas, where vehicular transport is not common and roads are poor, especially during the raining seasons.

French volunteer Magali Comte grins as she rolls up to her host family’s house on her project site in the Walewale area of Ghaana via bamboo bike. Photo courtesy of the SYTO

Local people find many uses for bamboo bicycles. Students travel to school with them; merchants carry goods to the market; farmers transport agricultural produce to and from their land; and health workers deliver much-needed medical supplies to and from clinics.

Volunteers’ Experiences

At SYTO, foreign volunteers are trying these bamboo-framed bicycles out for themselves, excited by how unique and comfortable they are.

As Doug Switzer, a volunteer from Ireland, observes: “I ride my bamboo bike to work every day and to town to buy stuff I need. I enjoy riding it because it’s smooth and well built. This bike is great. It’s useful to me and my colleagues, who also enjoy it because I see a number of them riding their bikes to work.”

A few volunteers from Canada World Youth/SYTO discuss issues with locals on their bamboo bikes in Paga, Ghana. Photo courtesy of the SYTO

That said, the bamboo bikes still need some mechanical fine-tuning. The pedals, for example, are not the most durable and usually the first part to have problems.

Volunteer Sarina Thiel from Germany points out another kind of complication. “The bikes are good, but the only problem is that they attract unnecessary attention from the community every time I am using it because the bikes are so unique!”

SYTO and Bamboo Bikes Limited look forward to the day when this sustainable form of transport is less of a head-turning novelty item and more of a norm.

If you would like to arrange a volunteer experience or internship in Ghana, get in contact with SYTO Ghana. Also stay tuned for bamboo bike tours through M&J Travel and Tours, the whl.travel local connection in Northern Ghana.

Patagonia: A Must for Active Explorers

Breaking away from the common aspiration to travel in a warm and tropical destination can be difficult – but Patagonia makes it EASY. Mixing immense natural beauty, rich wildlife and satisfying activities makes Patagonia a must for active travellers.

Patagonia is located at the southern end of South America and spans over parts of Chile and Argentina. Covering roughly one third of Argentina and close to half of Chile, there is a lot of Patagonia to go around. Combine that with its low low population density and you begin to understand the vast uninhabited grandeur of this beautiful region. It is the closest landmass to Antarctica, and shares elements of its spectacular icy landscape.

The name Patagonia was coined by the great explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1520 to describe the large stature of the Patagonian people. At that time, the native tribesmen of Patagonia (the Tehuelche people) are believed to have been 5’11”, quite large compared to the then average Spaniard male of 5’1”. Magellan thought he had found “giants.”

Today Patagonia is still characterized by “the gigantic” in its larger than life terrain. Traveling throughout Patagonia results in boundless vantage points of ice-tipped mountains, granite cliffs, and icebergs. Turquoise tinted glaciers, river valleys, tangled pine forests, and spongy grassland plains reward all who visit.

If you’re not already convinced, here are some more reasons why Patagonia Is A Must See.

Outdoor Activities

Patagonia is the perfect cold weather playground. With the wide range of terrain offered between Argentina and Chile, your multi-sport options are many. Hike throughout semi-arid plateaus, deep valleys and canyons. Ice trek across expanded ice fields and immense snow-covered mountain ranges. Take to the water in kayaks and canoes exploring the many blue-coloured icebergs. Biking is also an option from certain locations.

Animals

Patagonia has noticeably diverse fauna. See rich wildlife from foxes, condors and penguins to pink flamingos, rabbits, and ashy-headed geese. Guanacos, a species of lama is indigenous to the land. Unique birds include the buff-necked ibis and rheas.

Eco-Camp

Although some outdoor enthusiasts are dedicated enough to see Patagonia independently, many opt for the assistance of a seasoned tour operator. One such offering BikeHike Adventures is proud to provide is accommodation at the Eco-camp, a one-of-a-kind lodge with cozy dome shaped shelters. Due to the way it was constructed, the environmental impact of the Eco-camp’s huts is virtually none-existent. Staying here is a restful and relaxing experience in an otherwise relatively inhospitable environment.

Family Friendly

Patagonia is an ideal family vacation. Since there are no snakes or other dangerous wild animals (pumas exist, but are rarely seen), it is safe for a wide array of outdoor activities. The large and unspoiled wilderness is the perfect place for kids to build an appreciation for outdoor life and learn about the natural world.

About BikeHike Adventures

BikeHike Adventures is an adventure travel company that offers guided tours to over 30 destinations worldwide. Specializing in multi-sport vacations, BikeHike unites humans in their love for outdoor activities around the world. Catering to outdoor enthusiasts with a passion to go a little deeper, BikeHike exclusively uses highly experienced local guides who facilitate the wonder and pride of exploration. BikeHike’s passion for fostering meaningful relationships abroad is reflected in its commitment to sustainability, both environmentally and socially. If exploration is your lifestyle, BikeHike Adventures is your mentor! Follow them on twitter @bikehiketravel

BikeHike Adventures’ Most Popular Trip in Patagonia

Join BikeHike for The Best of Patagonia, an extended trek through both Chile and Argentina. See all the intoxicating natural beauty Patagonia has to offer by hiking and ice trekking on this 12-day tour. Overnight accommodations include family-run hosterias, log cabins, tents and a luxurious and sustainable Eco-Camp.

The beautiful landscapes of Oman attract more than 1.2 million travellers each year, drawn in by the expansive deserts, ancient cities, majestic mountains and beautiful coastal beaches that combine to offer an incredible range of leisure activities and exciting outdoor pursuits. From the historic capital city of Muscat, with its gorgeous gardens and ancient forts, to the nearby shores of Masirah Island (a popular nesting ground for sea turtles) and the rolling dunes of the Wahiba Sands, Omanis have plenty of national heritage of which to be justly proud.

Getting around Oman can be challenging, but booking your ground transportation ahead through Green Path Transfers is the perfect way to explore the country. Photo courtesy of Elite Travel & Tourism

A Green Path Transfers Partner

For anyone planning a trip to this beautiful country, finding reliable transportation is of course key. Long driving distances combined with regularly washed-out roads and occasionally dangerous wadi crossings all pose serious challenges for travellers. It therefore pays to consider booking at least ground transportation with a knowledgeable local taxi and transfer service.

Fortunately, the experienced professionals at Elite Travel & Tourism can provide comfortable transportation to any destination. In addition to being the whl.travel local connection in Oman, Elite is now the local partner of Green Path Transfers, the fast-growing global and eco-friendly transport service.

Through Green Path Transfers, Elite Travel & Tourism looks forward to expanding the reach of its taxi and transport business to responsible travellers from all over the globe.

“In a developing country like Oman, we have worked hard to bring professionalism and safety to this market,” explains Will Plummer, Business Director at Elite Travel & Tourism. “We believe that with our friendly staff we are ideally place to be the first introduction to those visiting Oman and reassure people of what a fantastic country it is to visit.”

Since 2004, the experienced and knowledgeable team at Elite Travel & Tourism has been helping travellers explore legendary Oman. Photo courtesy of Elite Travel & Tourism

A Local Leader

Founded in 2004 by a Omani local Amor Hardan, Elite Travel & Tourism has grown into a successful and responsible travel business that today offers transport services, as well as tailor-made tours andvacation packages throughout the country. When he decided to launch the company, Hardan, who had already enjoyed a 15-year career at the Intercontinental Hotel Muscat, was eager to show people the many stunning off-the-beaten track destinations worth visiting in his home country.

In 2009, Elite Travel & Tourism acquired another business, called Alanaka Tours, as a way to lead small-group tours and desert-camping adventures. In the same year, Amor’s wife, Karen Hardan, joined the company as general manager and, with her wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, raised the company’s overall level of professionalism.

Today, as a local tourism operator with a strong commitment to the environment and to local communities, Elite Travel & Tourism is pleased to join the Green Path Transfers’ growing global network of responsible transport partners and ground transfer operators. “Being part of the WHL Group family” – both whl.travel and Green Path Transfers are part of the WHL Group – “has already been very successful for us and it is great to be part of Green Path Transfers too,” Plummer adds.

A Greener Perspective

Elite Travel & Tourism is encouraged by the positive value of lasting partnerships with other like-minded tourism and transport businesses also part of Green Path Transfers. Like other partners committed to responsible and sustainable local travel and transportation, Elite Travel & Tourism shares the emphasis Green Path Transfers places on going green, in particular the ability to offset a full 100 percent of the carbon emissions generated by its transfers business.

In keeping with its responsible tourism philosophy, Elite Travel & Tourism is intent on helping to preserve the beautiful local environment of Oman. Photo courtesy of Elite Travel & Tourism

“We believe we can offer the services and standards that clients of Green Path Transfers expect and with our own responsible tourism policy we are very conscious of the need to offset the carbon emissions we make,” explains Plummer. “We are continually working to find new ways to make our own service more green and are exploring what we can do within the Middle East to accomplish this.”

In keeping with its own philosophy and goals, Elite Travel & Tourism hopes the new partnership will help raise consciousness in Oman around the need for more eco-friendly vehicles and transportation solutions.

Far-Reaching Service

With a 32-vehicle fleet of luxury sedans, 11-passenger minibuses and 4×4 off-road vehicles, Elite Travel & Tourism is more than capable of meeting any request for ground transportation in Oman. The majority of the company’s clients head to the beach resorts of Muscat or to the old capital of Nizwa in Oman’s northern region. A journey to Nizwa is Plummer’s top recommendation, since it can be a jumping-off point to the stunning canyon-like scenery of the Hajar Mountains. Also in the north is theMusandam Peninsula, separated from the main part of Oman by the United Arab Emirates.

Beyond this, says Plummer, “a trip to the desert is a must.” With the Wahiba Sands only two hours from Muscat, they are very accessible. For those with more time, he recommends visiting Salalah in the tropical south, a city famous for its sweet-smelling frankincense trail.

“Of course,” adds Plummer, “we offer services everywhere in between all these sites and have many guests who enjoy exploring between north and south, especially along the stunning coastline.”

To learn more about Green Path Transfers and how to be part of carbon-neutral travel arrangements that emphasise green technology in a growing number of destinations around the globe, visit www.GreenPathTransfers.com.

About the Author: Laurel Angrist

Laurel Angrist is a travel-obsessed New York City native who specializes in stories about travel, the arts and culture. She is a maniac for mountains, street food and local art, and although she’s a lousy driver she’s always up for a road trip! Visit her website: www.laurelangrist.com.

Out with a local fishermen in Sarteneja, Belize. Photo courtesy of Travel Off the Radar

“For a long time most of the villagers have made a living from fishing… they have always fished the entire coast of Belize…even those who don’t take part in the traditional lifestyle still make their income from the sea. With their close relationship to the reefs, Sartenejans quickly notice changes to the reef and fish,” says the narrator on an informative video put out by the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD).

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System is impressive, covering 560 miles from Cancun to Honduras. In Belize, where the reef stretches for a remarkable 186 miles, Blue Ventures has taken a creative and effective approach to conservation.

Beginning in January of 2010, Blue Ventures, already in its eighth year of operation, began its project with the Belizean community of Sarteneja, the SACD and other organizations to understand the impact the local coastal communities have on the nearby reef.

Fishing and marine environments provide a huge source of income and nourishment for nearby residents, and while some are tempted to take extreme conservation measures, SACD clarifies in a video on the Blue Ventures website, “In this community, when people hear the word conservation, they think, ‘no fishing,’ that’s not what SACD wants. Conservation can allow fishing to continue but there are always better ways to do it, there are best practices to ensure the sustainable use of these natural resources.”

Manatee Rehab at Wildtracks Photo courtesy of Travel Off the Radar

For six weeks, volunteers with the Belize project are able to conduct research with Blue Ventures and their partner organization, the SACD. The mission behind the research is to eventually develop a sustainable environmental management plan for the region that not only increases the quality of life for the residents of Sarteneja, but also increases and sustains a healthy level of marine biodiversity.

Depending on schedules, volunteers undergo 7 – 15 days of their science training program, learning techniques of monitoring and identifying species. If you have not received your PADI certification, courses for PADI Advanced Open Water certification are given within two weeks of arrival.

Sign up for a spot on one of the five trips they have coming up in May, June, August, September, or November. Blue Ventures also has training and volunteer programs for their research sites in Malaysia and Madagascar. If you aren’t sure which would be the best fit for you, read about each one on their website.

About Off The Radar

By connecting passionate travelers with unusual travel opportunities, Off the Radar and Xola Consulting support adventure travel companies who provide guests with a genuine, personal experience; who believe in sustainable, environmentally sensitive travel and incorporate the local people and traditions of the destinations where they operate.

Editor’s Note: Special thanks to our friends at The Travel Word, who introduced us to this article.

By Kathrine Vogn, UCA San Ramon

In the fresh and green mountains of Northern Nicaragua lie the communities of La Pita, El Roblar, La Reyna and La Corona in San Ramón, Matagalpa. Four different communities when it comes to size, altitude and charisma, but who share a similar history.

Originally the Germans came to Nicaragua because of the promise of gold. They exploited the ground and the people. However, along the way, they found that the cooler climate in the mountains where ideal for coffee. And so began the coffee production that started with big fincas owned by foreigners but during the Sandinista period developed to cooperatives owned, run and profited by the Nicaraguans themselves.

It’s in these strong communities you have the opportunity to stay, either just for a tour around the beautiful mountains and a talk about the culture, coffee and fair trade; for a couple of nights with one of the host families where you can help out with the cooking and try your coffee picking skills or as a volunteer for a longer period of time.

It’s an extraordinary experience to meet and live with these farmers and the best way to get to know the real Nicaragua. The family will teach you about their traditions and show you, among other things, how to cook and the guides will let you in on the secrets of the land and farming. And after a day of picking coffee, you will suddenly appreciate your cup of coffee so much more because you know how long it takes to pick enough for it and how long a process it is to get the little bean sowed, harvested and roasted.

San Ramón Union of Agricultural Cooperatives

Unión de Cooperativas Agropecuarias “Augusto César Sandino” (Union of Agricultural Cooperatives), or simply UCA San Ramón, is the primary organisation in this rural community agroecotourism project. It’s an organisation that consists of 21 agricultural cooperatives in the municipality of San Ramón and works to improve the conditions and knowledge of its 1,080 farmers.

Five of the cooperatives in four communities are a part of the tourism project. It means that the guides are young people from these four communities who therefore know everything worth knowing about this part of the country: the flora, fauna, landscape and agriculture around their community in particular.

Because it’s locals who act as the guides and their family as hosts the money paid goes directly to the farmers themselves and ensures a secondary income for them. In that way you can rest surely that those who profit are those who do the work as well as it ensures the most authentic experience for the visitors.

The Coffee Crisis

In 2001 international coffee prices fell to historic levels. This of course affected the Matagalpa area severely because the main production is coffee. In order to try to strengthen the economy for the farmers the North Central Cooperatives (CECOCAFEN) and UCA San Ramón started the agroecotourism project in 2003. In this way, the producers could diversify their income and at the same time strengthen the relationship between the consumers in the North and the producers in the South.

That is the general background and aim of the agroecotourism project.

To learn more about the project, see www.agroecoturismorural.com or contact info@agroecoturismorural.com, phone +505 2772 5247 / +505 8927 9066

>> Visit UCA San Ramón’s Facebook Page

By Leanne Haigh, Project Development Manager at Acacia Africa

Voluntourism has generated a new wave in travel, the growing feel good factor creating opportunities for the everyday traveller and not just the career minded charity worker. But the question remains, can you make a difference when you’re a short-term tourist? The debate appears to be ongoing, however, it’s not essential to be on a three-month sabbatical or longer stint if you want to give something back to the country you are visiting.

The African continent is a good place to start, adventurers in search of the Big Five also helping out on more practical projects.

Building and painting local schools in Uganda is valuable input. Of course, you might be visiting the project for just one day, but you’re still a much needed pair of hands, and non-profit projects with little in the way of budgets will welcome that kind of practical assistance with open arms.

Your first step into the world of vouluntourism – On an overlanding tour you’ll have the opportunity to visit seven or eight countries in Africa, and along the way there are usually various community and conservation based programmes on offer. Whether you decide to participate in an ethical project or simply gain some understanding from the local scheme on a guided tour, you’ll bring back some relevant insight that might help you decide on a more focused voluntour next time you visit. Remember, even on a two-week experience it’s a real commitment, and it’s important to invest your time in something you believe in, making prior hands on knowledge invaluable.

More specific voluntour itineraries will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the project’s aims and build closer relationships with your fellow travellers and members of the local community who also help to make it happen.

Where to Head?

Zanzibar is often seen as a sun sea and sand destination, but it’s now home to an exciting educational project. Illiteracy affects over 40% of the Spice Island’s population, then again you don’t need to have a teaching qualification to get involved. The activities range from assisting with the education of with primary school classes to adult education, and you will also have the opportunity to be involved in recycling and tree planting programmes; the scheme endeavouring to engineer a more well-rounded approach to the needs of the community, whether its education or conservation.

With the Big Five being central to almost any itinerary in Africa there’s the option to combine game viewing and volunteering on many tours. Undoubtedly, the wildlife is still the main draw for anyone choosing to travel on the continent so organisations involved in the protection of endangered animals are becoming part and parcel of the whole voluntour industry. And, what better place to start than the Masai Mara, host of the annual migration. Volunteers coming on board from July to October will certainly be assured of a little more excitement, and a two-way ethical scheme, there is the opportunity to learn from the Masai tribe, ethical travellers assisting on conflict management programmes and helping to improve educational facilities in the area.

Your Checklist to Voluntouring

* If you’re not sure how to make the best of your skills, look out for one day voluntour experiences within a tour, you’ll gain much needed insight when it comes to taking a longer commitment

* There are plenty of voluntour experiences out there, but quiz the company you are booking with. If the travel advisor is able to give you a detailed description of what’s on offer, it will speak volumes about their involvement

* Check out the options in Africa, as you may well be able to combine a voluntour holiday with some additional sight seeing and game viewing

* Ask about the ratio of local and tourist involvement. In general, voluntour projects that show a strong concern for local labour are rated more highly when it comes to their values and ethics

For more information on Acacia Africa, contact: 020 7706 4700 or info@acacia-africa.com

Photos by Acacia Africa

By Mary Kuhner

Celebrating 35 years of research and education at the edge of the Arctic, the Churchill Northern Studies Centre (CNSC) recently cut the tape on its state-of-the-art 27,000 square-foot facility. In keeping with its mission to understand and sustain the North and to live sustainably on the fragile tundra, the new building – with arching wooden interior ribs – has been aptly dubbed “the upside down ark” by locals. On track to obtain Manitoba’s northernmost LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification, the CNSC reduces both the high cost of operating in the North and reliance on outside services and utilities.

Green Construction: Creative and Responsible Solutions

Executive Director Michael Goodyear touts the Centre’s design process and self-sustaining features:

“Although LEED-certified construction provided us with a framework for decision making, we tried to stay away from ‘chasing’ a particular level of certification. Not all energy-efficient technologies are appropriate, practical or cost effective in northern settings like Churchill. On the other hand, because we are essentially ‘off the grid’ except for hydro-electric power, creative and responsible solutions are required – especially when managing water and sewer. The Centre’s water comes from a nearby lake and the sewage is treated on site using bio-filters and below-ground filter beds. This technology is very useful to us but wouldn’t be cost-effective for residential areas in the South with access to centralized municipal infrastructure. The CNSC, however, pays 10 cents per gallon to have our waste trucked to the nearest sewage treatment facility. The more we can treat on site, the better. In the end, we will likely achieve the high end of ‘gold’ certification.”

To minimize waste production and fresh water consumption, the new Centre’s ultra-low water use systems feature waterless composting toilets as well as a variety of low-flow water fixtures. With each person currently averaging 18 gallons of water per day – less than 25 percent of the amount used by a typical consumer – gallonage has already been reduced by 45 percent and is soon slated to drop even further. Mr. Goodyear notes that one of the technologies getting the most attention is the potential for grey-water recycling. Upon final code approval, “all waste water from the sinks and showers will be treated and used to flush the toilets.”

The Centre’s bio-filtration system uses bacteria to break down wastewater for release into an underground filtration bed. (Photo Credit: CNSC)

Smart Energy Choices

In a region where long days of midnight sun are offset by longer days of minimal light, the structure incorporates maximum use of available solar energy: ninety percent of the interior is exposed to natural light. This passive solar collector not only lets in light, but it retains heat through a super-insulated R40 building envelope and triple-glazed windows.

Daylight streaming through the central atrium supplements energy-efficient lighting and a South-facing exterior solar wall pre-heats ventilation air. Saving energy cost through heat recovery is also a high priority. Enermodal Engineering’s lead mechanical engineer Richard Lay designed the CNSC ventilation and plumbing systems to conserve energy with heat exchangers: 80 percent of the energy in heated air is recovered. In addition, heat is recovered from shower drain greywater to pre-heat cold water going to the water heater.

Much more than a physical plant, “the ark” is home to researchers and students working in the biological, physical and social sciences as well as visitors drawn to Churchill’s natural and historical treasures. It is one of the few settlements in the world where the great arctic bears and beluga whales can be encountered in the wild in addition to rare birds and a wide variety of plant communities.

Positioned in the auroral zone, Churchill is one of three top locales to view the northern lights. The area also features diverse first-nation cultures and historical sites ranging from the 18th-Century Fort Prince of Wales to the 20th Century Churchill Rocket Range, the location of the Centre.

Glue-laminated wood columns and supports shape the “Upside-Down Ark.” (Photo Credit: Penn-Co)

From Cold War Relics to Modern Research Centre

In true Churchill recycling style, old became new again in 1985 when the CNSC purchased several buildings on the mothballed Cold War site from the National Research Council of Canada – ironically, a spot once considered for nuclear weapons testing. The Operations Building, which formerly housed upper atmospheric scientists, evolved to accommodate a wide variety of residents.

Originally designed as a multi-purpose structure with barracks – complete with a rodent-seeking “house weasel” named Wally – the Centre became increasingly inadequate to meet the 21st Century needs and expectations of its users. With climate change bringing greater numbers of researchers to the region, as well as eco-tourists eager to learn about sustaining northern species, “the increased expense of operating a poorly insulated, energy-inefficient facility was becoming prohibitive,” according to Mr. Goodyear.

He further said that when funding became available for a purpose-built research and education facility, the CNSC Board was able to demonstrate its commitment to users and to the surrounding environment. Using an integrated design process, Board members, staff and clients developed an environmentally focused plan in collaboration with project managers, architects, and engineers from Integrated Design, Prairie Architects, Enermodal Engineering and Penn-Co Construction.

Given the potential for -40 degree cold, 100 km/h winds and danger from wandering polar bears, the quality of the CNSC’s indoor environment is significant. Foresighted planning has created a self-contained living module that incorporates a wish list of amenities from users seeking greater comfort and elbow room. Dormitories and rooms accommodate 88; and 12,000 square feet of space house scientific laboratories, a commercial kitchen, and administrative offices.

Researchers now share their specialties in classrooms instead of a common area, and when programs are going full tilt, residents and guests can mingle in the 100-seat cafeteria instead of eating in shifts. Fitness facilities and an outdoor deck have been added to help stave off cabin fever between excursions in addition to an aurora dome for exploring northern skies.

Now that the new facility is in place, the former Centre in the historic Operations Building will be recycled for a second time. “There are plans to extend its useful life by 25 years through modest renovation,” Mr. Goodyear explained. “It will house many of the service functions (maintenance and contract research) of the CNSC. These areas will require less energy in some cases and will allow for many of the mechanical systems to be located away from the residential and teaching functions of the new building.”

What will become of Wally? “He’ll probably still have run of the old building, but he’ll have to find creative ways of getting into the new one!”

The use of wood helps warm the lounge and solar atrium spaces. (Photo Credit: Prairie Architects Inc.)

For the eco-conscious travelers on your list, here are a dozen affordable holiday gift ideas (recommended by TIES Advisory Board member and journalist/blogger Kim Lisagor):

Flask-shaped reusable water bottle

The “no liquids” security policy at U.S. airports leaves two options for thirsty travelers: pay for bottled water at the gate, or carry a reusable bottle to fill before boarding. Obviously, we prefer the second choice. Unlike standard bottles, the flask shape fits comfortably into a airplane’s seat back pocket.

This Cost Plus World Market design ($8), conspicuously labeled “water” in several languages, is less likely to draw sideways glances from flight attendants than a repurposed liquor flask.

Lightweight, slip-on travel shoes

In the never-ending quest for the ultimate travel footwear, Jambu’s Eclipse Mesh for women ($99) comes as close to perfection as any: durable, comfortable, versatile, vegan, and easy to slip off at airport security.

The closest men’s equivalent is Teva’s Mush Frio Slip Canvas ($45): lightweight, easy to take on and off, and takes up very little suitcase space. Great for transit days.

Gadget sleeves from recycled materials

Laptops, tablets and e-readers may be perfectly sized for travel, but they’re too fragile to roam the globe uncovered. WrapCycle uses reclaimed fabrics to make fashionable protective cases for portable electronic devices ($35). The padding, made from recycled packing material, is lightweight and water-resistant. Check out their passport covers, too.

WrapCycle partners with local recycling centers to get materials, and uses every last inch of them so that what ultimately gets thrown away is a tiny fraction of the amount.

Unique travel accessories

Luggage tags that stand out on a crowded conveyor belt are always a hit with travelers. This one from bicycle-gifts.com ($12), made from a repurposed bicycle chain, comes in four bright colors.

Another welcome departure from ordinary travel gear: bright blue Connected toiletry bags ($32) and sturdy, carry-on sized duffels ($48) made in Cambodia out of rice bags that were diverted from landfills, and supporting the work of Artisans Association of Cambodia (AAC). AAC is dedicated to helping Cambodians affected by sexual exploitation, poverty, polio, and injuries from land mines.

Incredible, edible raincoat

Seasoned travelers know to pack for every sort of weather, including the surprise rain storms that frequent our favorite tropical locales. The Spud Raincoat (£7 to £10) is packable, biodegradable and compostable outwear made from potato-derived bioplastic that’s embedded with tomato or cucumber seeds. Plant it when you’re done wearing it. Then water, wait, and eat. (Seriously.)

The rain coat also teaches consumers about this type of biodegradable plastic material, as well as to demonstrate the importance of sustainable development.

Animal fun for globetrotting kids

Every parent’s carry-on bag contains art supplies and reading material. Here are two items that will put kids in the mood for exploring the natural world. Portland, Oregon-based artist Crystal Ayala recycles old, broken crayons and turns them into usable art. Her animal-shaped crayons ($11 for a set of three) come in reusable cloth bags – great for coloring on the go.

Curious Critters ($20), a new book by photographer David FitzSimmons, captivates young readers with striking images of North American wildlife and creature-narrated stories.

Ecotravel for a steal

Selva Verde Lodge & Rainforest Reserve (Costa Rica), Kosrae Village Ecolodge (Micronesia) and Wild Earth Adventures (Canada) are a just few of the top-notch travel companies that have donated trips for The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)’s ecoAuction. TIES online eco-holiday auction, hosted on leading charity auction site Bidding for Good, regularly offers amazing travel experiences from around the world. These travel experiences are often available with a great discount (bidding starts at 40% of retail value), and all proceeds go directly support TIES work – uniting conservation, communities and sustainable travel.

Village Earth, a non-profit organization that provides sustainable international development training programs, is offering a new online course “Tourism and Development” as a part of the Community-based Development Certificate Program in partnership with Colorado State University. This course runs 5-weeks from January 6 – February 10, 2012. All registration is done online and the deadline to register is December 30, 2011.

The course is about tourism and its impacts within the framework of community-based development.

Course description

In developing countries, tourism as a means of economic development receives considerable public funding and private investment. Moreover, NGOs increasingly support local tourism initiatives, as well as voluntourism, in hopes of raising incomes in the communities in which they work. Amongst these institutions, tourism is seen as a mechanism for local communities to capitalize on assets such as the natural environment and cultural heritage. Yet in academic circles, tourism has often been accused of being destructive, elite and at times oppressive.

This course will explore successful tourism initiatives as well as problematic initiatives. We will critically examine the nature of tourism, its impacts on communities and considerations that must be taken into account in order for a tourism project to have the desired impact of pursuing a local vision for development without destroying.

Course Instructor: Cynthia Ord

Cynthia Ord holds a Masters of Tourism and Environmental Economics degree from the University of the Balearic Islands in Palma de Mallorca, Spain and a B.A. in Spanish and Philosophy from Colorado State University. Her M.S. program focused on the socio-cultural, environmental and economic impacts of global tourism. Ord’s research focused on non-commercial volunteer tourism networks. She currently works in media and communications for WHL Group, a global online travel-booking network that focuses on e-market access for small and medium sized tourism enterprises in the Global South. She has also worked on ecotourism projects in Central America and worked with a local tour operator in Albania.

Pacific Northwest Annual Canoe Journey

On July 29, 2012, The Squaxin Island Tribe will host the Paddle to Squaxin 24th Annual Canoe Journey, an inter-tribal celebration of Pacific Northwest canoe culture and tradition. More than 100 canoes will land at the Port of Olympia, in Washington state, with thousands of people joining together to welcome each arrival.

For centuries, Pacific Northwest tribal people navigated the waterways in intricately carved dugout canoes. The Salish Sea, the body of water that encompasses Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Strait of Georgia in Canada, were the central force that connected canoe cultures for inter-tribal communication and trade. But early federal government mandates outlawed many tribal traditions, resulting in the almost lost art of canoe building, and ceremonial practices.

In 1989, the Canoe Journey event, originally called “Paddle to Seattle”, was organized as a revival of the canoe culture traditions and the Native American contribution to the Washington State Centennial. Today, tribes from Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and the Seminole Tribe in Florida participate.

The Bella Bella, from British Columbia, Canada, will travel more than 1,000 miles over 23 days. As the canoes arrive at the host site on July 29th, each canoe family asks for permission to come ashore, according to their own culture and protocol. Paddles are raised, signifying “We come in peace.” The Squaxin Island Tribe will then host a week of traditional potlatch ceremonies and festivities with daily performances by dancers, singers and storytellers.

Potlatch ceremonies and performances will continue after the landing to Kamilche, Washington at the Squaxin Island Community. The public is welcome but is asked to respect ceremonies, while in the protocol tent. Potlatching begins on July 30th and ends on August 5th.

“Teachings of Our Ancestors” is the guide for the 2012 Canoe Journey. “These teachings are the center of our lives and cultures, as it is our ancestors that teach us that we must care for our elders, each other, our children, and the earth because each is a part of our past, present and future,” said Charlene Krise, Squaxin Island Museum Executive Director.

Support the Paddle to Squaxin 2012

There are various opportunities to support the Paddle to Squaxin and to help make this important event a success. The following are available sponsorship levels, taken from the contemporary names of Native American ancestral lands, each of which is equally important to the People of the Water.

• Noo-Seh-Chatl of Henderson Inlet watershed
• Steh Chass of Budd Inlet watershed
• Squi-Aitl of Eld Inlet watershed
• Sawamish/T’Peeksin of Totten Inlet watershed
• Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish of Hammersley Inlet watershed
• Squawksin of Case Inlet
• S’Hotle-Ma-Mish of Carr Inlet watershed.

For more information about these sponsorship opportunities, contact Margaret Foley at +1 (360) 432-3952 or mfoley[at]squaxin.us (Subject line: “2012 Canoe Journey Sponsorships”).