contest

Every year the Goi Peace Education Foundation develops educational programs and contests to promote global awareness in young people, emphasizing the leading role they can play in promoting world peace.

Together with UNESCO and the Earthwise Society, the Foundation has organized a series of International Essay contests for young people to take part in. Years 2005-20014 have already been designated by the United Nations as the "Decade of Education for Sustainable Development." Through this, the UN hopes that young people not only benefit from global initiatives, but are also empowered to play a part in them any way they can.

The theme of this years' International Contest Essay is "My project to create positive change in my environment. How can I foster sustainable development in my community?" Young people from around the world are invited to submit innovative ideas and concrete plans to address the social, cultural, environmental or economic problems faced by their community.

Considering the economic and environmental problems we are currently facing, this is a brilliant idea to introduce fresh new ideas for change from the rising generations.

The contest is divided into two separate age categories. Children (ages up to 14) and Youth (ages 15-25). If you happen to be the lucky 1st prize winner, you will receive a cash award and an all expense paid trip to Japan for the awards ceremony. For more guidelines information, visit the Goi Peace Foundation site.

All entries are due by June 30th, so good luck!

The Presidential Forum on Renewable Energy is sponsoring a nationwide essay contest for college students between the ages of 18 and 24 asking them to submit a plan on renewable energy, sustainability, and conservation for America. Each of three winners will receive an educational prize of $10,000 to coincide with the celebration of Earth Day in April.

But hurry: the essay is due by February 1, 2008. You can enter online here.

Students are asked to write a four- to six-point renewable energy plan for America, laying out a strategy for the next five to ten years that will minimize our current dependence on nonrenewable energy sources.

The essay contest grew out of a November 17, 2007, forum in which presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, and Dennis Kucinich spoke about global warming and America’s energy future. The event, sponsored by Grist and PRI’s Living on Earth, was presented by the Presidential Forum on Renewable Energy in partnership with League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, California LCV Education Fund, Center for American Progress Action Fund, and NRDC Action Fund.

Good luck!