MAYOR ANNOUNCES ENVIRONMENTAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH

Mayor Mufi Hannemann today announced that the City & County of Honolulu is providing two opportunities for Oahu’s youth to participate more fully in its 21^st Century Ahupuaa program.

Mayor Hannemann announced that applications are now available for high school students to apply to become the next class of 21^st Century Ahupuaa Ambassadors. 

“The current class of Ambassadors, our first, is made up of high school seniors, and they are fast approaching graduation.  The Ambassadors have been given an up close and personal education about how the City handles its solid waste.  And they have been a key partner in our 21^st Century Ahupuaa initiatives moving forward,” Hannemann said.  “I would encourage any young person who is interested in the issues of global warming, alternative energy and other environmental fields to apply to become a member of our next class of Ambassadors.”

A 21^st Century Ahupuaa Ambassador application is attached.  They are also available online at www.sustainhonolulu.com. Completed applications should be returned by May 17^th  to:

21^st Century Ahupuaa Ambassadors

c/o Chrystn Eads

530 South King Street Suite 306

Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

Or via email to ceads@honolulu.gov

In addition, Mayor Hannemann announced that the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Division of Urban Forestry is sponsoring an essay contest for high school students.  The author of the winning essay will receive a free tree for his community and will be invited to plant the tree with Mayor Hannemann.     

“This contest will complement our new Urban Reforestation  Master Plan,”  Hannemann said.  “Honolulu has long been a Tree City USA, and I’m happy our high school students will have the opportunity to express their love for our city’s trees and have a chance at winning a tree for themselves and their community.”

Students are asked to write 500 words or less on why a tree should be planted in their neighborhood park or school and how that tree will benefit park users or students.  Entries should be postmarked no later than May 19^th and be mailed to:

Terri Koike

Division of Urban Forestry

3902 Paki Avenue