April 3rd, 2012

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

For centuries, the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of character have driven American progress and enriched our national life. On Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., we renew our commitment to these timeless aspirations, and we rededicate ourselves to fostering in our sons and daughters inquiring minds and compassionate hearts.

In a global economy where more than half of new jobs will demand higher education or advanced training, we must do everything we can to equip our children with the tools for success. Their journey begins early, and it demands stewardship from throughout the community — from parents and…

Brazil has dramatically slowed down the rate of Amazon deforestation in the past six years. But restoring the swathes of rainforest is another huge challenge – and one that is meeting powerful political opposition.

Vast, red, dirt roads pave the way to the new agro-industrial frontier in Matto Grosso, in the centre of Brazil. The landscape is breathtaking. On one side of the road, the pastureland is populated by a few cows which raise their heads to follow the passing cars. On the other side of the road, industrially-planted soya mega-crops stretch to the horizon, forming perfect geometric patterns. Occasionally, a patch of forest breaks the monotony, a reminder this…