Author: Yanni Pappas

In the face of global challenges, JGI’s Roots & Shoots program empowers people to make positive change every day. By acting locally, young people in Roots & Shoots understand how actions have collective worldwide impacts. This is the core of Roots & Shoots, which highlights the power of individual action. In Australia, JGI-Australia’s Roots & Shoots program teaches youth how their local communities and environments are part of, and connected to, larger issues. Through that lens, young people are activated to take on projects to improve the world for people, other animals and the environment! JGI-Australia’s Roots & Shoots organizes…

Dr. Jane’s story inspires people from all over the world. Leading by example, Dr. Jane has always pursued her passions, and encourages youth and adults alike to find their own passions in order to turn them into purposeful and positive impact.  Something else Jane, JGI and JGI’s Roots & Shoots have always been committed to is the idea that everyone can – and most importantly should be able to – make a difference. In South Africa, through JGI SA’s Roots & Shoots program, young people are being given the opportunity to discover what they truly care about, as well as the…

It is easy to feel helpless in the face of a complex, global issue such as the plight of refugees. It may seem that only those with political power have the means to act. However, the core of JGI and JGI’s Roots & Shoots philosophy is that every individual has the power to do something, no matter who they are and no matter how complex problem. With news reports inciting fear around asylum seekers, it’s important to get the facts and to understand the entire issue while finding ways to take positive action. What’s going on? 68.5 million people (the highest…

One of the most powerful aspects of the Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots is that it is a movement of young people from all over working toward the same goal of a better world for people, other animals and the environment. When faced with a challenge and creating a project on your own, it is easy to forget that you are supported by a whole community of fellow change-makers. Roots & Shoots is committed to giving members the tools and resources they need to enact positive change. Here are some exciting resources that you can use to make the…

On February 14, 17 people were killed in the mass shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Fourteen students and three staff members lost their lives that day. One would expect such a tragedy to be an anomaly, a horrible and unlikely devastation that had never occurred before and would never occur again. However, in the world we live in, mass shootings and other acts of gun violence have become something to expect. But, people are not okay with what has become our reality. From this horror came something beautiful and powerful as survivors of the shooting could…

As consumers, one of our greatest powers is choosing what product to buy. When we purchase something at the store, we are giving our money to the company that produced or supplied that product.  Each dollar spent is a message to that store demonstrating that this product will sell, that you like what they are producing and you want them to continue producing it. Typically, especially at grocery stores, we make those decisions based on what we enjoy, what is most cost effective, and perhaps what catches our eye. However, as people who have pledged to help humans, animals, and…

With their long necks and beautiful colors, giraffes are one of the most iconic African animals.  Despite their popularity, giraffes are currently facing severe declines in population.  Various wildlife protection groups have taken note of this and sought to get giraffes the protection they need. However much you know giraffes, to see one in the wild for the first time feels prehistoric. — Dr. Jane Goodall Why are giraffe populations declining? Giraffe populations are decreasing due to multiple problems that are mainly human-caused.  Giraffes are commonly hunted for bushmeat, and their bones are carved and traded around the world. In…

Planting trees is one of the easiest ways to strengthen your relationship with the natural world. From birds to insects, all different types of animals use trees as their homes and as sources of food. Trees also help protect the health of an ecosystem like by preventing erosion since their roots hold the ground together. Beautiful and diverse, trees benefit people, animals, and the environment, and by planting a tree or two, you can bring those benefits to your yard or neighborhood. What Kind of Tree Should You Plant? When choosing a tree, you must take in account where you…

In the Congo Basin of Central Africa, researchers have located a previously unknown peatland larger than New York State.  This discovery highlights the importance of peatlands to the health of the global environment. What are Peat Swamps? Peat swamps are areas where the soil is so full with water that dead leaves and other types of organic matter are unable to completely decompose.  This peat accumulates over time, and soon vast areas contain tons of carbon (the main component of organic matter which sustains living things).  Peatlands can be present all over the world from the northern territories of Canada,…

The Holiday Season is a great time to learn about the traditions and culture of yourself and others. Roots & Shoots U.S. Roots & Shoots Youth Council USA Member, Yanni Pappas, shares how to make Melomakarona. Melomakarona is a traditional Greek honey cookie made during Christmas time. Yanni also touches on how something simple such as food can help us better understand those who are different from us. Full recipe: http://www.food.com/recipe/melomakarona-a-greek-christmas-cookie-76498?photo=32932