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Vaka Eiva 2007 is turning into the biggest Vaka Eiva to date, with record numbers of paddlers, support crews and spectators attending this annual event. In keeping with the traditional spirit of o’e vaka with nature, it is vital that we make this event as environmentally friendly as possible and minimise impacts of this event on the Cook Islands environment. The Cook Islands Canoeing Association, with the support of the National Environment Service and Waste Management Services are putting every effort into making Vaka Eiva 2007 GREEN! Focusing on the ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ philosophy, VE paddlers, support crew, spectators and vendors are asked to help us keep with this ‘green theme’ by reducing carbon emissions and waste where possible by considering the following actions to do with venue and transport, waste minimisation, water conservation, planting trees for carbon offsets, conservation of endangered species and prevention of invasive species. We thank you in advance for supporting our efforts and for Keeping Vaka Eiva 2007 and our beautiful island Clean and Green! 1. Venue and transport Drive less. Open the window, turn off the air conditioning. Air conditioning is a great contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. So open your car window or use a fan instead of air conditioning. 2. Waste Minimisation Events such as VE07 naturally generate waste and waste management is a major issue on small islands like the Cook Islands. We want paddlers to be an example for all to follow and so everyone is encouraged to take actions to minimise waste produced and practise recycling of waste. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
For more information about waste management, check out our fact sheet! 3. Be water wise! Conserve water. Use less water whenever possible – e.g. shorten showers to a few minutes, only do full loads of laundry etc – every little bit counts! A Vaima water refill station will be at each venue and you will receive discounted top-ups when you present your Vaima Vaka Eiva water bottle issued in your packs. Large 15 litre water bottles are available from Vaima Water – ask at their stand. 4. Plant a tree! Each team present for Vaka Eiva will be asked to plant native tree seedlings traditionally used for canoes. Tree planting can help to offset polluting carbon emissions and all are encouraged to do their part for the environment by planting a tree. We will give you more information about tree planting when you arrive. 5. Conservation of Endangered Species Thinking about taking home some of those beautiful shells or pieces of coral you picked up off the beach? Corals and shells are and important part of our environment and under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), certain species of coral and shell are considered endangered and require a permit before they can be taken home with you. Even if you purchase a piece of coral and/or shell from a retailer, you are still required to obtain a CITES permit, which costs NZ $10. In the interests of conserving our coral and shell species,
we do ask for your consideration when deciding to remove specimens
and limited to no more than 2kgs. Remember these are what make Rarotonga
beaches beautiful! Or visit or call us on (682) 21256. Our office is located directly opposite the Avarua Wharf, down the road from the Empire Movie Theatre. 6. Prevention of Invasive Species
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Copyright © 2007 - Cook
Islands Canoeing Association - All Rights Reserved |
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