How can we not just do less harm to the environment but actually give Earth more of what it needs?
CRC is inspired by the Gandhian principle of ahimsa, “doing no harm in thought or deed” and the Iroquois Nation’s principle of having in mind, before taking any action, the seventh generation beyond our own. Unfortunately, the harm human systems have caused is threatening all forms of life on Earth. As we learn more about the severity of the climate crisis and the urgent need to protect the planet, many of us are trying to become more “green” and live more sustainably. Practicing environmental nonviolence can include climate activism, composting, and reducing our carbon footprint by eating locally grown food or taking public transportation.
We can also conserve and restore habitats and ecosystems. CRC collaborates with The Living Arts Institute, in Cape Cod, MA and the World Oyster Society (WOS), in Tokyo, Japan to educate individuals, organizations, and schools about the benefits of bringing into existence new oyster reefs in the Northeast region of the United States and around the world. Why oyster reefs? They are essential to our natural environment. Like coral reefs in the tropics, northern oyster reefs are the crucial first step to the marine food chain. They protect coastal beaches, towns, and cities by creating a barrier from storm and wave damage. Reefs also improve the quality of our oceans by filtering 50 gallons of water a day!
Kahren Dowcett, founder of The Living Arts Institute writes, “Wouldn’t it be a good thing for everyone to know about a species that is so critical to our well-being…and that, like the bees on land, perform such critical functions and are indispensible?” The Living Arts Institute created a comedic play to teach why and how oysters are the foundation for all aquatic life. The play is called Cirque de Sea: A Tale About An Oyster Who Saves the World and the main character of course, is an oyster whose name is Sammy Spat. What you can do:
- Individuals, community organizations, schools can request Priscilla Prutzman and Kahren Dowcett for an “Oysters and Environmental Nonviolence” workshop.
- Request the play Cirque de Sea: A Tale About An Oyster Who Saves the World come to your community.
- Check out other projects like NY NJ Baykeeper and Riverkeeper.