International

Young talent recognized in global photography competition

2009-11-12

Airbus rewards young talent with the announcement of the winners of its international biodiversity photography competition, "See the Bigger Picture." Eight youngsters were chosen from 2,597 entries from 99 countries and took inspiration from surrounding nature for their unique shots.

The international competition, launched in July through a partnership between Airbus, National Geographic and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), part of the United Nations Environment Program, encouraged young people to engage in nature and consider the global loss of biodiversity. The competition was developed as part of Airbus' support for The Green Wave, a youth engagement program of the CBD to encourage young people to learn about the complexity of life on earth and its role in their future.

The winning images were captured by budding photographers from countries as widespread as Canada, Pakistan, Kenya and Estonia, and though divided by geography, all entrants showed a common love of photography, a passion for their natural environment and concern for their futures. Children of Airbus employees were also encouraged to enter and three internal prize winners were selected alongside the five global winners. A further 20 young people were awarded honorable mentions for their entries.

The eight talented winners will receive a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Washington, D.C., headquarters of National Geographic in December. The winners are Anthony Avellano, 12, from La Crescenta, California., USA; Chad Nelson, 12, from Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic; Alex Marttunen, 11, from Vantaa, Finland; Clemence Bonnefous, 8, from Tournefeuille, France; Vinzent Raintung, 8, from Halstenbek, Germany; Julia Kresse, 15, from Jork, Germany; Patryk Majchrzak, 16, from Ostrow Wielkopolski, Poland; Prerona Kundu, 11, from Lawrence, Kansas, USA.

Commenting on the competition, Tom Enders, CEO and president, Airbus, said: "The standard of entries from every corner of the world has been extremely impressive and a great reminder of the variety of living species we have around us. At Airbus, we are working with the CBD and using our global outreach to raise awareness of the need to preserve the variety of life on earth. Acknowledging our responsibility for the world of tomorrow, we are relentlessly pursuing eco-efficiency through innovative technologies, processes and products."

Executive Secretary of the CBD, Ahmed Djoghlaf, said: "We are delighted Airbus and National Geographic are working with us to inspire the next generation about the importance of protecting the rich biodiversity of the world we live in. This competition is helping to deliver that commitment, engaging and educating today's children in the task of safeguarding the planet."

The world is losing biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate as a result of human activity. "This is a global problem that needs to be addressed today if we want to retain the diversity of the natural world for the generations of tomorrow. It is about the food that we eat and the air that we breathe," said See The Bigger Picture ambassador and world-renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore.
Sartore was a member of a global panel of judges who were impressed by the range of subjects that engaged the entrants. Photographs featuring insects, animals, plants and landscapes were submitted by photographers as young as 6 years old.

To view the winning entries and learn more about how to get involved in The Green Wave, visit www.seethebiggerpicture.org. A gallery of the winning photographs can also be viewed at the ftp site http://ftp.nationalgeographic.com/pressroom/see_bigger_picture.

username: press | password: press

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Notes to editors

"See The Bigger Picture" honorable mentions:
Afton Carpenter, 14, Gilbert, Arizona, USA
Julian Kiesel, 12, Nyack, New York, USA
Samantha Shapiro, 14, Chappaqua, New York, USA
Alex Sorensen, 14, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
Joshua Hartmann, 12, S. Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
Chaitra Godbole, 14, Pune, India
Arjun Shankar, 16, Chennai, India
Sachin Vijayan, 13, Thodupuzha, India
Vince Ellison B. Leyeza, 11, Laguna, Philippines
Eleanor Bennett, 13, Stockport, United Kingdom
Malik Babi, 6, Beauzelle, France
Lénaїg Allain-Le Drogo, 12, Saint Luce Sur Loire, France
Richard Guerre, 9, Blagnac, France
Zoe Hamelin, 16, Paris, France
Diego Adrados, 13, Tarifa, Spain
Sara Cuenca Uñac, 13, Alicante, Spain
Mariló Moreno Ruz, 15, Cádiz, Spain
Jonas Harms, 16, Norderstedt, Germany
Marvin Pulter, 14, Germany
Tobias Abrahamsen, 16, Sarpsborg, Norway

Competition statistics:
Total of 2,597 entries from 99 countries. This includes 247 entries from children of Airbus employees in 6 countries.
Over half of the photographs taken were of land-dwelling animals, and the greatest proportion of these were insects.
Some children experimented with underwater shots requiring a high level of skill.
Just over 40% of entrants took photographs at home, showing awareness that biodiversity can be found in our own back yard.

The Green Wave:
The Green Wave is a global biodiversity campaign to educate children and youth about biodiversity.
The CBD is a United Nations treaty promoting the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity
2010 is the United Nations' International Year of Biodiversity. On May 22, 2010 (The International Day of Biodiversity), as part of The Green Wave initiative, young people are invited to plant a tree at 10 a.m. to celebrate biodiversity. This will create a wave of tree planting as the activity passes through each time zone across the world.
Photos and stories from the moment can then be uploaded to The Green Wave website to create a virtual wave on the Internet
Visit http://greenwave.cbd.int.

Airbus specific notes:
Airbus believes that growth in air travel is a global need and that the essential social and economic benefits derived from a more connected world can still be unlocked and deliver a greener world, if everybody plays their part
Airbus acknowledges the 2% that aviation contributes to global man-made CO2 emissions, but believes that it also has a responsibility to support others in tackling the remaining 98% of CO2 emissions. Deforestation alone, for example, generates nearly 20% of man-made CO2, so Airbus is working with the CBD, and using its global outreach to raise awareness of the importance of the need to preserve the variety of life on earth
This is why it has committed to support the CBD's The Green Wave initiative

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SIGNS ON AS SPONSOR OF 9TH WORLD WILDERNESS CONGRESS AND WiLD SPEAK

2009-11-05

WASHINGTON (Nov. 5, 2009)--National Geographic announced today its sponsorship of WILD9, the 9th World Wilderness Congress, and the accompanying four-day conservation communications symposium, WiLD SPEAK. WiLD SPEAK, organized by the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP), provides a forum for media professionals to discuss environmental issues and themes, share strategies and technologies, and explore how their work can raise awareness and realize conservation objectives. WiLD SPEAK will take place Nov. 9-12, 2009, during WILD9, which will run from Nov. 6-13 in Mérida, Mexico.

Throughout its 121-year history, National Geographic has encouraged conservation of natural resources and raised public awareness of the importance of natural places, the plants and wildlife that inhabit them and the environmental problems that threaten them. In the past four years, 54 articles in National Geographic magazine have been photographed by iLCP members. Photographers whose work has appeared in the magazine and who are scheduled to present at WiLD SPEAK include Michael Nichols, Brian Skerry, Paul Nicklen, Steve Winters, Tim Laman, Christian Ziegler, Frans Lanting, Jack Dykinga, Tom Peschak, Klaus Nigge and James Balog.

Tim Kelly, president of National Geographic Global Media and president/CEO of National Geographic Ventures, and Frank Biasi, director, conservation and special projects, National Geographic Maps, will speak at WILD9.

"We are excited to be part of WILD9 -- a vital forum that is closely aligned to our own mission to inspire people to care about the planet," said Kelly. "It speaks to our ongoing commitment to environmental storytelling across all of our media platforms. We constantly challenge ourselves to take these kinds of stories and find fresh ways to share them with our many audiences. It's an honor to have supported some of the conservation photography showcased at WILD9 and WiLD SPEAK, and we look forward to future collaborations with iLCP."

"This year's congress greatly expands our focus on the visual and written media professions as catalysts and influencers to raise awareness of environmental issues and on their role in achieving conservation outcomes," said WILD Foundation President Vance Martin. "National Geographic is an ideal sponsor of WILD9 by virtue of its commitment to conserving nature and traditional communities, and success in bringing issues, emotion and information to audiences regarding the beauty and fragility of our planet."

WILD9's principal theme is the key role that wilderness conservation plays in mitigating climate change and conserving biodiversity and other ecosystem services critical to human well-being.

Please send requests for images to media contacts below.

WILD9 is a partnership between The WILD Foundation and Unidos para la Conservación and relies on the support and participation of many partner organizations.

The National Geographic Society (www.nationalgeographic.com) The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, exhibitions, live events, school publishing programs, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic magazine, the Society's official journal, published in English and 32 local-language editions, is read by more than 35 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches 310 million households in 34 languages in 165 countries. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 13 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 9,200 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geography literacy.

iLCP (www.ilcp.com) Its mission is to further environmental and cultural conservation through ethical photography. iLCP is a project-driven organization, with a vision to translate conservation science into compelling visual messages targeted to specific audiences. iLCP works with leading scientists, policy makers, government leaders and conservation groups to produce the highest-quality documentary images of both the beauty and wonder of the natural world and the challenges facing it. From poaching to global warming, from habitat loss to cultural erosion, from sustainability to biological corridors, the work of conservation photographers covers the range of threats to biodiversity and is a critical component in the conservation toolbox.

The WILD Foundation (www.wild.org) Founded in 1974, WILD is the only international organization dedicated entirely and explicitly to wilderness protection around the world. WILD works to protect the planet's last wild places and the wildlife and people who depend upon them, because wilderness areas provide essential social, spiritual, biological and economic benefits. We believe that intact wilderness areas are an essential core element of a healthy modern society.

Unidos para la Conservación (www.unidosparalaconservacion.org) Founded in 1992, Unidos is a nonprofit Mexican conservation organization that has actively promoted the concept of wilderness conservation in Mexico. Its working strategy combines the establishment of alliances with government, nonprofit and corporate partners with the promotion of a conservation culture through publications and films in a search of conservation solutions through specific action.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TO LAUNCH KIDS' MAGAZINE IN INDONESIA

2009-10-22

WASHINGTON (Oct. 22, 2009)--The National Geographic Society will launch the newest edition of its children's magazine in Indonesia, bringing the number of international editions of its National Geographic Kids publication to 18. The November issue will be available beginning Oct. 26, and the official launch event will be held at SeaWorld Indonesia on Nov. 19.

National Geographic Kids Indonesia will be published by PT Penerbitan Sarana Bobo, the children's publishing arm of Kompas-Gramedia Group, the largest media corporation in Indonesia. Each issue will be completely bilingual in English and Bahasa Indonesia.

Content for the magazine will be drawn primarily from the award-winning U.S. magazine National Geographic Kids and also will include local Indonesian content related to the environment, animal life and other topics that will excite kids about exploring their world. There will be 12 issues a year, and the magazine will be available by subscription, on newsstands and in Gramedia bookstores throughout Indonesia.

Local editions of National Geographic's children's magazine also are available in Bulgaria, Croatia, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Latin America, The Netherlands, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, South Africa (two editions), Turkey and the United Kingdom. This growth mirrors the global expansion of the famous yellow-bordered National Geographic magazine, now available in 32 local-language editions and read by more than 35 million people each month. The children's magazines, which accept advertising, also sport the familiar yellow border.

"The growth spurt of our children's publications allows National Geographic and the local-language publishers to reach an untapped youth market with this best-loved brand," said Society President John Fahey. "Giving young people in Indonesia a window to the world in their own language through National Geographic's incomparable photographs and storytelling is a compelling way to spread geographic knowledge and to extend the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet."

Founded in 1973, PT Penerbitan Sarana Bobo is the largest publishing company and market leader for children's magazines in Indonesia, with publications for children of all ages from toddlers to secondary school students. With a focus on information, communication and education, the Kompas-Gramedia Group has in the past four decades diversified its media business to include regional newspapers, books, magazines, a television channel, radio, bookstores, hotels, real estate development, travel bureaus and tissue paper production.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 375 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

National Geographic Announces Fourth Annual International Photography Contest

2009-08-06

WASHINGTON (Aug. 6, 2009)--National Geographic readers around the world are invited to take part in the 2009 National Geographic International Photography Contest. Readers of National Geographic's English-language editions in eight countries as well as readers of 20 of the magazine's international local-language editions are eligible to participate. The international grand-prize winners will receive a trip to National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., and their winning entries will be published in all participating editions of National Geographic magazine. Winning entries from each territory will be featured in their local editions of National Geographic magazine.

English-language-edition readers in Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United States and the United Kingdom are eligible to enter up to a total of six photographs across three categories: People, Places and Nature. Entries should be submitted electronically to www.ngphotocontest.com. The contest began Wednesday, Aug. 5, and ends Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time (ET). Photos can be black-and-white or color, shot with a digital camera or with conventional film, and must be submitted digitally. Each entry consists of an entry form, a single image and an entry fee. The entry fee is U.S. $12 per photo for entries received before 11:59 p.m. ET Oct. 15, 2009, and $22 per photo for entries received between Oct. 16 and Oct. 31. For details and official contest rules, visit www.ngphotocontest.com. Void where prohibited.

English-language-edition entries will be judged at National Geographic headquarters by a panel of three judges: National Geographic staff photographer Mark Thiessen; design editor of the international editions of National Geographic magazine Darren Smith; and White House photo editor Jenn Poggi. First-place category winners of the English-language-edition competition will win a digital camera kit.

The participating international local-language editions will submit their winning entries in each category to National Geographic headquarters to be judged alongside the winning English-language entries by Thiessen, Smith and Poggi. The judges will announce three international grand-prize winners in December 2009.

"We are thrilled to continue our annual photography contest," said David Griffin, National Geographic's director of photography. "The work we have been seeing in recent years is truly astounding and speaks to the truth that photography is a worldwide, universal language — one that everyone can appreciate and enjoy."

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 370 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

BRIGHTEST GEOGRAPHY WHIZ KIDS FROM 15 REGIONS TO COMPETE FOR INTERNATIONAL GEOGRAPHY TITLE IN MEXICO IN JULY

2009-06-29

WASHINGTON (June 29, 2009)--Fifteen teams of the brightest geography students from around the globe will meet in Mexico City July 11-16, 2009, to take part in the ninth National Geographic World Championship. The presenting sponsor of the international contest, organized by the National Geographic Society, is Telmex Foundation, with supporting sponsorship from the Mexican Academy of Sciences, CONACYT, JW Marriott Mexico City and Televisa Foundation.

Each team will comprise three students who excelled in their national geography competition. The teams will meet to answer questions on physical, cultural and economic geography in two levels of competition. Current world champion Mexico will defend its title against teams from Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The students will arrive in Mexico City on July 11. The teams will take a written test on July 12 and explore some of the historic areas of Mexico City; the following day, they will battle each other in a challenging hands-on activity in the morning and visit the ancient city of Teotihuacan that afternoon. On July 14 they will explore Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, and the nearby museums. The three teams with the highest scores from the written test and geography activity will meet at the National Museum of Anthropology and History for the championship finals on July 15. They will answer questions in a game-show format, moderated by Alex Trebek, host of the popular U.S. television quiz show "Jeopardy!".

The National Geographic World Championship takes place every two years. The first contest, held in London in 1993, was won by the United States, which beat teams from the United Kingdom and Russia. The Australians, competing against four other teams, won the 1995 competition at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. The third championship, held in 1997 in Washington, D.C., was won by Canada, which bested teams from eight other regions. The fourth competition, held in Toronto, in 1999, was won by the United States, which also won the 2001 contest in Vancouver, the 2003 contest at Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay, Fla., and the 2005 contest in Budapest, Hungary. The 2007 competition at SeaWorld, San Diego, was won by Mexico.

"Promoting knowledge of our world, its cultures and the environment is at the heart of the mission of the National Geographic Society," said John Fahey, Society president and CEO. "The National Geographic World Championship provides a forum for top geography students from all corners of the globe to compete and to determine which team is the international geography champion. By participating in their region's competition and advancing to the international level, each student learns so much about our planet and becomes a better global citizen for the experience."

Arturo Elías Ayub, CEO of Telmex Foundation, said, "At Telmex Foundation we are convinced that the best tool to fight poverty, to ensure a more just society and to guarantee a better future for Mexico's youth is education. Therefore, we are proud to support this ninth National Geographic World Championship, because it motivates the young participants to learn more about and expand their vision of the marvelous world that surrounds us and to appreciate its wealth and diversity. The team members also will have the priceless experience of establishing relationships with other cultures, from which, undoubtedly, we all have many things to learn."

The National Geographic Society developed the National Geographic Bee in 1989 and the National Geographic World Championship in 1993 in response to concern about the lack of geographic knowledge among young people in the United States. And the problem is not yet resolved: The National Geographic-Roper Public Affairs 2006 Geographic Literacy Study showed that Americans aged 18 to 24 still have limited understanding of the world within and beyond their country's borders. Even after Hurricane Katrina, one-third could not locate Louisiana and almost half could not locate Mississippi on a U.S. map. Only four out of 10 were able to find Iraq on a map of the Middle East.

More information about the National Geographic World Championship is available at www.nationalgeographic.com/worldchampionship.

About National Geographic
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and four other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; radio programs; films; books; DVDs; maps; and interactive media. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

About Telmex Foundation
In 1996 Telmex Foundation initiated activities to help solve problems that affect social development in Mexico and to support victims of natural disasters in Mexico and other Latin American countries. In order to carry out this mission, Telmex Foundation works in seven core areas: Education, Health, Nutrition, Justice, Culture, Human Development and Support in Natural Disasters.

With permanent programs designed and focused on these core guidelines, Telmex Foundation confirms each day its commitment to building a Mexico that offers better living standards to its people and allows its inhabitants to build a better future for themselves, their families and their communities, for the benefit of the country.

NOTE: Up-to-date information about the competition will be posted in the National Geographic online press room at nationalgeographic.com/pressroom.

Photographs can be downloaded throughout the week of July 11-16 at FTP site: http://ftp.nationalgeographic.com/pressroom/ngwc/
User name: press
Password: press

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTO CAMP TO GIVE VOICE TO YOUTH IN JORDAN AFFECTED BY DISPLACEMENT

2009-06-15

WASHINGTON (June 15, 2009)--A group of young Iraqi and Palestinian refugees living in Jordan, as well as local Jordanian youth whose lives have been affected by the influx of refugees into their country, will have the opportunity to document their lives and experiences with internationally acclaimed photographers Reza and Ed Kashi this month during National Geographic Photo Camp Jordan. From Monday, June 15, through Wednesday, June 24, 60 students will take part in workshops where they will learn about self-expression through photographic vision and technique. The Photo Camp is presented in partnership with the International Medical Corps, through a grant from Australian Aid.

During the first of three sessions, June 15-17, at the Child and Family Protection Center in Irbid, Jordan, 20 teenagers aged 12-19 will create stories of their experiences of displacement, resettlement and other life disruptions using photographs and written words under the guidance of the Photo Camp staff. Similar sessions will follow on June 19-21 and June 22-24 with 40 other young refugees and Jordanian teens at the Jordan River Foundation in Amman.

Reza and Kashi, along with Jordanian photographers Nasser Majali and Mohammad Hannon, will teach students how to describe their personal world and create self-portraits by exploring the world through the lens of a camera. Individual sessions with International Medical Corps mental health staff will allow the children to unlock painful experiences and help in addressing their emotional needs. By using photography as a catalyst for discussion, the Photo Camp will encourage self-expression and awareness among the young refugees and Jordanians, all of whom have felt the strain of the displacement on their communities.

"Photo Camp can give these young people, who have been uprooted or experienced turmoil, strain and hardship, the voice and the opportunity to explore the current state of their lives," said Terry Garcia, National Geographic's executive vice president, Mission Programs. "We are honored to be part of this endeavor."

"International Medical Corps is delighted to partner with National Geographic once again," said Nancy Aossey, president and CEO of International Medical Corps. "As an organization with years of experience implementing art therapy programs to help in the long-term recovery of conflict-affected populations, we recognize that Photo Camp Jordan is a tremendous opportunity for the children and for the world to see their stories."

The students' work will be presented in an exhibit on June 26 at the Queen Rania Center in East Amman, followed by a graduation ceremony. This final presentation aims to draw attention to youth perspectives of living as a refugee in today's world and the challenges that their generation faces.

This is the second collaboration between National Geographic and International Medical Corps. In November 2006 they implemented Photo Camp Uganda for child refugees from Rwanda, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with subsequent exhibits of their photographs in cities around the world, including London, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles and Atlanta.

Cameras for National Geographic Photo Camp 2009 will be provided by Olympus Imaging America Inc. PNY Technologies will provide memory cards.

Reza, one of the best-known photojournalists in the world, has been documenting global strife and conflict since the 1970s as a contributor to Time, Newsweek and National Geographic magazines. His photography has earned him multiple illustrious international awards, including the Hope Award and public service and humanitarian awards in France and Spain.

Kashi, a freelance photographer since 1979, travels the world capturing images of ordinary life in extraordinary communities. A photojournalist, filmmaker and educator, he has been internationally recognized for his work on the social and political issues that define our times. He has produced 17 stories for National Geographic, most recently "Forgotten Faithful: Arab Christians" in June 2009.

National Geographic Photo Camp has provided programs for more than 850 young people in over 40 locations since 2003. Photo Camps will also be held this year in Botswana; Olympic National Park, Seattle; Pine Ridge Native American Reservation, S.D.; and national marine sanctuaries in Florida and California. Visit
nationalgeographic.com/photocamp for more information.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

Since its inception 25 years ago, International Medical Corps' mission has been to relieve the suffering of those impacted by war, natural disaster and disease, by delivering vital health care services that focus on training. This approach of helping people help themselves is critical to returning devastated populations to self-reliance. For more information on International Medical Corps, visit imcworldwide.org.

Australian Aid is an agency dedicated to assisting developing countries in reducing poverty and achieving sustainable development since 1974. For more information on Australian Aid, visit ausaid.gov.au.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC'S 2009 GREENDEX™ SURVEY OF CONSUMERS IN 17 COUNTRIES FINDS INCREASE IN GREEN CONSUMER BEHAVIOR WORLDWIDE

2009-05-11

WASHINGTON—In their second annual survey to measure and monitor consumer behaviors that have an impact on the environment, the National Geographic Society and the international polling firm GlobeScan have found an increase in environmentally friendly consumer behavior in 13 of the 14 countries that were surveyed in both 2008 and 2009. Released today, "Greendex™ 2009: Consumer Choice and the Environment — A Worldwide Tracking Survey" is a comprehensive measure of consumer behavior in 65 areas relating to housing, transportation, food and consumer goods. Greendex 2009 ranks average consumers in 17 countries — up from 14 in 2008 — according to the environmental impact of their discretionary and nondiscretionary consumption patterns.

Like last year, the top-scoring consumers of 2009 are in the developing economies of India, Brazil and China; American and Canadian consumers again score lowest. Consumers registering the best year-on-year improvement in environmentally sustainable consumer behavior are the Spanish, Germans, French and Australians, while Russians and Mexicans show the smallest increase. Brazilians are the only consumers measured in both 2008 and 2009 to show a decrease in their Greendex score.

Much of the increase in the overall 2009 Greendex scores was due to improvement within the category of housing, where the Greendex measures the energy and resources consumed by people's homes. Changes within the categories of personal transportation, food and consumer goods were mixed, some up, some down. The results show that both cost considerations and environmental concerns were motivators in consumers adopting more environmentally sustainable behavior over the past year.

First conducted in 2008, the Greendex survey was expanded in 2009, with the addition of Argentina, South Korea and Sweden to Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, India, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Spain and the United States. Seventeen thousand consumers were polled online (1,000 in each country), answering questions that measured their behavior in the areas of housing, transportation, food and consumption of goods. Each respondent earned a score reflecting the environmental impact of his or her consumption patterns within each of these four categories, and four corresponding "sub-indices" were created. Consumers were then assigned an overall Greendex score (a measure of the relative environmental sustainability of their consumption patterns) out of 100, based on their performance within the four sub-indices. By comparing this year's scores with the previous year, changes in environmentally sustainable consumption at both the global level and within countries can be monitored.

Consumption as measured by the Greendex is determined both by the choices consumers actively make — such as repairing rather than replacing items, using cold water to wash laundry, choosing green products rather than environmentally unfriendly ones — and choices that are controlled more by their circumstances — such as the climate they live in or the availability of green products or public transport. The initiative considers both of these types of factors, with 60 percent of the 65-variable index based on choice or discretionary behavior.

Findings
Consumers in all 14 countries surveyed in both 2008 and 2009 show an increase in their Greendex scores this year, except those in Brazil, whose slight decrease dropped them from first to second place.

Greendex Overall Scores

Consumers     2009 2008

Indians (1)            59.5       58.0
Brazilians (2)         57.3       58.6
Chinese (3))          56.7       55.2
Argentineans (4)    54.7       NA
South Koreans (4)  54.6       NA
Mexicans (6)          53.8       52.7
Hungarians (7)      53.3       51.7
Russians (8)           52.0      51.1
Spanish (9)            51.4      48.0
Germans (10)         51.1      48.1
Swedes (10)           51.1      NA
Australians (12)    50.5      47.8
French (13)            49.5       46.5
British (13)            49.4       48.2
Japanese (13)        49.3       47.4
Canadians (16)     47.5       46.3
Americans (17)     43.7       42.4

Not surprisingly, respondents in most countries named the economy as their No. 1 national issue, much more so than in 2008. But the results indicate that economic troubles may have worked to the environment's advantage in a number of instances: Among those who reported that they reduced energy consumption at home over the past year, some 80 percent say that cost was one of the top two reasons they did so. And of those who say they reduced their consumption of fuel for motorized vehicles in the past year, nearly three-quarters cite cost as one of their top two reasons. Furthermore, majorities in four countries — Argentineans, Mexicans, South Koreans and Chinese — said that high fuel prices motivated them to change their transportation habits permanently.

"Interestingly, the economic upheaval appears to have had a silver lining for the environment," said Terry Garcia, National Geographic's executive vice president, Mission Programs. "But will positive behavior changes survive when an economic recovery starts? We hope the green behaviors that consumers are adopting now to cut costs will become part of their permanent lifestyles and that environmental concerns will become increasingly important for consumers around the globe."

While, overall, consumers felt the economy was the most important issue facing their countries, consumers in many countries registered strong concern about the environment. Many said this concern was one of the top two reasons for recent behavior changes. Fifty-five percent of consumers across the 17 countries agreed they are "very concerned about environmental problems"; only 14 percent disagreed.

Chinese, South Korean and Brazilian consumers were the most likely to register concern about the environment. Air pollution, climate change/global warming and water pollution ranked fourth through sixth on a list of 12 global concerns, just behind the economy, fuel costs and poverty. Roughly two-thirds of consumers said they were concerned about each of these environmental issues.

Six in 10 consumers across the 17 surveyed countries agree that people need to consume less in order to improve the environment for future generations (only 12 percent disagreed), showing that consumers recognize the connection between their actions and the environment.

When it comes to overall Greendex scores, consumers in the top-scoring developing countries generally show smaller increases this year than those in developed countries, due in part to their adopting more consumptive behavior as they become more economically successful and aspire to higher material standards of living. However, in spite of fears their Greendex scores could drop with economic development, most of these countries have improved their scores.

"Both the powerful inertia of energy-intensive countries and the growing consumerism in large, rapidly developing economies present a challenge to governments and industry. It is critical for both to create more sustainable choices for consumers across the full spectrum of consuming behavior," said Lloyd Hetherington, CEO of GlobeScan.

2009 Trends: Housing
Consumers in all surveyed countries registered significant improvements in their 2009 housing scores, with Brazilians, Indians and Mexicans again topping this sub-index. Countries in which the average consumer's housing score improved most notably were India, China, Mexico, Spain and France. U.S. consumers, who earned the lowest housing scores, also improved in 2009, but by a smaller margin than all other consumers surveyed. People in developing countries score higher in this area in part because they generally have smaller residences and use less energy in their homes.

This year's survey found that since 2008, consumers across many countries are now more likely to engage in energy-saving activities, such as adjusting thermostat settings, minimizing their use of fresh water, and washing laundry in cold water to save energy. This is due to both cost and environmental considerations.

Brazilians continue to be much more likely than other consumers to purchase renewable or "green" electricity, and this year consumers in two other emerging economies, India and Mexico, have shown increases in "green" electricity purchases. Argentineans, Russians and Mexicans are the most likely to report installing energy-saving appliances in the past year. Russians, Canadians and Argentineans are most likely to have sealed drafts in their homes, installed thermal windows, or installed or upgraded insulation this past year.

Transportation
Transportation is an area where many consumers can choose behavior that makes a vital difference in protecting the environment. Overall, scores were flat or down in this sub-index from last year. Consumers who showed the biggest drop in transportation scores live in India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Russia, Canada and the United States. Despite this drop, Chinese consumers scored highest overall in the transportation sub-index, followed by Argentineans and Indians. Transportation-related behavior is generally more environmentally friendly in developing countries where consumers tend more than others to walk, cycle or use public transportation, or choose to live close to their most common destination. But transportation scores fell most sharply in developing countries in 2009, perhaps as a result of peak prosperity in early to mid-2008.

Many consumers also report decreased fuel consumption over the past year and say cost is the main reason. Among motorized vehicle drivers only, between three and eight in 10 across the countries surveyed agree that increased fuel prices caused at least a temporary change in their transportation habits. Among U.S. drivers who say they changed their transportation habits because of higher fuel prices, 85 percent say they have reduced how much they drive. Among Chinese consumers who have changed their transportation habits due to fuel prices, 85 percent have increased the amount they bike or walk. Sixty-four percent of Brazilians whose transportation habits have changed say they have increased the amount they carpool.

Asked why they don't take public transportation more often, consumers cite availability and efficiency as issues. Additionally, Indian and Russian consumers claim public transportation is too crowded, Japanese attribute low usage of public transit to the high cost and Mexican consumers point to safety considerations.

Food
Indians, Australians and South Koreans top this index, though Indians' score dropped 4.5 points since last year. Countries in which the average consumer's food score improved the most were Germany, Australia and the United States; those whose scores dropped the most were in India, Brazil and Hungary.

Since 2008, consumers in seven surveyed countries, the United States, Australia, Great Britain, France, Japan, Mexico and Russia, decreased their consumption of bottled water — an encouraging sign that messaging around this environmental initiative is being heard. Swedes, at just 6 percent, are the least likely to drink bottled water every day. Germans remain the most likely to drink bottled water — 68 percent do so daily.

Indian consumers ate fewer local foods and fruits and vegetables in 2009 and increased their consumption of imported foods and bottled water. However, their Greendex score is boosted by the fact they eat the least amount of meat and seafood, while consumers in other countries tend to consume both meat and seafood at least once a week.

Americans, British, Germans and Spanish are more likely now than a year ago to consume locally grown foods several times a week or more. Brazilians and Indians are less so.

Argentineans are the top beef eaters, with 66 percent saying they eat it several times a week compared with 8 percent of South Koreans or Hungarians. Mexicans have increased their beef consumption this year; 48 percent eat it several times a week compared with 39 percent last year. Ninety percent of Japanese eat fish or seafood at least weekly; just 34 percent of Indians and 25 percent of Hungarians do.

Goods
Topping this sub-index this year are Indians, South Koreans and Chinese. The biggest year-on-year improvement was recorded by Indians, Russians and French, while Brazilians recorded the biggest drop.

Consumers in South Korea, Australia, Canada, the United States and many of the European countries surveyed report a decrease in consumption of everyday household goods over the past year. While seven in 10 of those who have reduced consumption of household goods cite cost as one of their main reasons, one-third say environmental concerns were their primary motivating factor.

The frequency of recycling has substantially increased in nine of the 14 tracking countries this year. Consumers in developed countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany and Great Britain tend to recycle most often. South Koreans and Russians are least likely to recycle.

Since 2008, the number of consumers who prefer to fix broken items rather than buy new ones has risen in six of the countries, including Canada and the United States and in emerging economies such as Brazil, China and Mexico. There has been a rise in the number of consumers who prefer to buy second-hand items. This increase is seen in nearly half the countries surveyed.

Avoidance of environmentally unfriendly products is up among consumers in six countries, with Indians, Brazilians and Mexicans showing the biggest year-on-year improvement in this area. These consumers, along with Chinese, also are the most likely to say they buy environmentally friendly products all the time. Americans, Hungarians, British, Spanish and Japanese are least likely to do so.

The French remain the most likely to use their own shopping bags, with this behavior up among consumers in 12 of 14 countries where this question was asked last year. Nearly four times as many Chinese reported using their own shopping bags this year as last, though this is probably due in large part to the fact that free plastic shopping bags are no longer available in Chinese stores. Russians and Americans report the lowest use of their own bags, at one-third each.

Swedes are least likely to prefer disposable household products over reusable items, while Indians, Argentineans, Mexicans and Brazilians are most likely to prefer disposable products.

Discover Your Greendex Score
Individuals around the world can find out where they rank on the Greendex scale by visiting www.nationalgeographic.com/greendex and taking an abbreviated survey. They can also examine the Greendex survey results by country, measure their knowledge of some basic green issues against what others around the world know and get tips on living a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Market Basket
Providing context for the Greendex results, a "Market Basket" for each country was assembled using a set of independently collected macroeconomic indicators, gathered by the Economist Intelligence Unit, that mirror, in part, the consumer behavior measured by the Greendex survey. The purpose of the Market Basket is to provide an external estimate of the results of changes in consumer behavior over time. The Greendex, for example, measures things consumers are doing to save energy in a country; the Market Basket measures whether total energy consumption in the country is actually going up or down. The Market Basket is also a framework for comparing the relative environmental impact of each country's size and growth rate, over time.
See http://www.nationalgeographic.com/greendex/assets/Market_Basket_Report_May09.pdf for results.

About National Geographic
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibits; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

About GlobeScan
GlobeScan Incorporated (www.GlobeScan.com) is a global public opinion and stakeholder research consultancy with offices in London, San Francisco, Toronto and Washington. GlobeScan conducts custom research and annual tracking studies on global issues. With a research network spanning 75+ countries, GlobeScan works with global companies, multilateral agencies, national governments and non-government organizations to deliver research-based insights for successful strategies.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE TO LAUNCH IN LITHUANIA IN OCTOBER 2009

2009-05-07

WASHINGTON (May 7, 2009)--A Lithuanian edition of National Geographic magazine will launch in October 2009, expanding the international reach of the magazine that has set the standard for excellence in reporting, photography and mapmaking to 32 different language editions. The Lithuanian edition will be published by Alma Littera, a major Lithuanian publishing house specializing in fiction, nonfiction, reference and textbooks.

Published under license from the National Geographic Society, the new Lithuanian edition, like the magazine's 31 other local-language editions, will follow closely the editorial content of the English-language original. It will be produced to the exacting standards of the Society, in the same format, with the familiar yellow-bordered cover.

Frederikas Jansonas, editor in chief of National Geographic Lithuania, has 18 years' experience in media and communications. He has been a partner and senior consultant at the pan Baltic public relations and communications company KPMS since 2004. Previously, he was editor and deputy editor in chief of Lithuania's second biggest daily newspaper, Respublika, where he started at the foreign news desk.

"We are constantly striving to satisfy the needs of Lithuanian readers with globally renowned and recognized products," said Arvydas Andrijauskas, managing director of Alma Littera. "National Geographic has the highest quality standards. It is an honor for us to publish this magazine and to provide our readers with the joy of knowledge. I have no doubt that National Geographic will have the full attention of people who are interested in culture, nature and geography."

The official journal of the 121-year-old National Geographic Society, National Geographic magazine provides in-depth editorial coverage of cultures, nature, science and technology. Published in English since 1888, the magazine currently appears in Japanese, Spanish (separate editions for Spain and Latin America), Italian, Hebrew, Greek, French, German, Polish, Korean, Portuguese (separate editions for Portugal and Brazil), Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Dutch, Chinese (traditional characters), Chinese (simple characters), Finnish, Turkish, Thai, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Russian, Croatian, Bahasa, Bulgarian, Slovenian and Serbian. The magazine has a total circulation of around 8 million and is read in every country of the world.

"Giving people a window to the world in their own language through National Geographic's incomparable photographs and storytelling is a compelling way to extend the Society's mission to educate and inspire," said National Geographic President John Fahey.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

Papua New Guinea Declares First National Conservation Area

2009-03-02

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (March 3, 2009) - The southeast Pacific nation of Papua New Guinea, home to some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth, has created its first national conservation area to preserve forever a swath of pristine tropical forest larger than Singapore.

The decision by the Papua New Guinea (PNG) government, in concert with local communities neighboring the newly established YUS Conservation Area, results from more than a decade of work with conservation biologists from Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle and Arlington, Va.-based Conservation International (CI).

Named for its three main rivers - the Yopno, Uruwa and Som of the Huon Peninsula - the YUS Conservation Area covers 187,800 acres (76,000 hectares or 760 square kilometers) of tropical forest stretching from PNG's northern coast to interior mountains.

A hallmark of modern conservation, the new protected area offers multiple benefits for both wildlife and people. The tropical forest stores huge amounts of carbon, so protecting it prevents the release of harmful greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. The lush forest ecosystem teems with life and provides countless resources and services that sustain the 10,000 villagers living in the surrounding YUS ecosystem. In addition, the forest is critical habitat for Matschie's tree kangaroos, a species listed as Endangered by the IUCN and one of Earth's more unique creatures with a bear-like head, bushy tail and marsupial's pouch.

"By creating the country's first national conservation area, the PNG government and people have established a much-needed safe zone for the irreplaceable biodiversity it contains," said Dr. Lisa Dabek, field conservation director at Woodland Park Zoo and director of the zoo's Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program. "Just as important, the protected area will contribute to long-term efforts to address the climate change threat by preserving critical forest habitat."

Woodland Park Zoo's Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP), with support from CI and National Geographic, has worked with PNG landowners and the PNG government for more than 12 years to establish the YUS Conservation Area, which is the first to be declared under the PNG Conservation Areas Act of 1978. The new protected area also represents the first time the more than 35 indigenous villages of the region have come together in joint action to protect their forest homeland and the wildlife and ecosystems so vital to their culture and sustenance.

While the land remains under local ownership, villagers have formally committed to prohibit all hunting and development such as logging and mining within the conservation area. Previous declarations of wildlife management areas in PNG have been less restrictive, allowing logging, mining and other destructive activities. Protecting the tropical forests of the YUS Conservation Area will prevent the estimated 13 million tons of carbon stored in the forest biomass from being released into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.

"This new conservation area shows how much good can be accomplished when governments and people work together," said CI President Russell A. Mittermeier, who visited the area last year. "Congratulations to Papua New Guinea and the communities of the YUS region for protecting such essential ecosystems and all the benefits they provide. Hopefully, other tropical forest nations will follow this example of simultaneously combating climate change and conserving the ecosystems on which people depend, and the international community will embrace a climate change treaty that compensates the carbon sequestration value of such protected forests."

Conserving PNG's biodiversity is complex, due to the country's unique social and geo-political circumstances. PNG has a land tenure system whereby nearly all the rural land is owned by clans and local landowners. Under Dabek's leadership, TKCP has gained the acceptance and respect of landowners, who have set aside portions of their land as a pledge to conservation. Today, the YUS Conservation Area consists of land pledged by more than 35 villages, forming a continuous stretch from coastal reefs to the 4,000-meter (13,000-foot) peaks of the western Saruwaged Mountains.

In exchange for this commitment to conservation, TKCP works with community leaders to increase access to education and improve community health within the villages. TKCP also will assist in formalizing a local community-based organization, which will be responsible for managing the YUS Conservation Area as well as the community livelihood projects in the villages of the surrounding YUS ecosystem.

Preservation of Matschie's tree kangaroos first brought Dabek to the remote Huon Peninsula more than a decade ago. Today she is recognized as a world leader in tree kangaroo conservation. With support from National Geographic and Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) institutions, Dabek and TKCP have conducted long-term research on tree kangaroo ecology and mapped the area with YUS landowners to identify critical habitat areas for preservation.

"Creating this conservation area is a step forward for both Papua New Guinea and conservation worldwide," Dabek said. "What we have accomplished here is more than just an act of environmental preservation - it's a sustainable model for community-based conservation that works."

Partners in the years of effort that culminated in creation of the YUS Conservation Area include the local communities, TKCP and its international staff, Woodland Park Zoo, CI, the Morobe Provincial government, PNG National Executive Council, and PNG Department of Environment and Conservation. TKCP and CI will continue to work with the PNG government and local communities to seek creation of additional conservation areas in the country, using the YUS area as a model.

The German government, committed to helping new protected areas around the globe through its LifeWeb Initiative, has provided a grant to CI and Woodland Park Zoo to support the YUS Conservation Area, PNG community development projects, and climate change research on species along the altitudinal gradient of the conservation area.

CI's Global Conservation Fund (GCF), which has provided more than $1 million since 2002 to support TKCP's work with communities and landholders, now has pledged a grant of $1 million more to be matched by Woodland Park Zoo to help establish a Conservation Trust that will provide long-term financing for the YUS Conservation Area.

A celebration of the YUS Conservation Area planned for April in the Teptep village will involve all the participating communities, along with PNG government officials and representatives of Woodland Park Zoo and CI.

"The conservation area will help the people of YUS better manage their natural resources," said Karau Kuna, Jr., a PNG national and GIS Mapping Coordinator for TKCP. "The YUS Conservation Area is part of PNG's contribution to the worldwide community in the fight against global warming and other environmental issues we are all facing."

Photos available at: http://bitly.com/SipNd
These images are for one-time use only with this story, and may not be archived, sold or used for any other purpose. Please include the copyright/credit information provided with each image.

Video b-roll available at: ftp.conservation.org/Guest/YUS
Username: mediaguest Password: paris0405
QuickTime file includes footage of tree kangaroos, researchers, and interview with Lisa Dabek, field director at Woodland Park Zoo and founder and director of the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program. Please credit the footage to Woodland Park Zoo/Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), award-winning Woodland Park Zoo is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting international standards for zoos. Conservation, education and excellent animal care are at the core of the zoo's mission. A Woodland Park Zoo Partner for Wildlife, the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program is one of 38 field conservation programs in 50 countries currently supported by Woodland Park Zoo. Major support for wild tree kangaroo research and mapping has been provided to TKCP by National Geographic. For more information about conservation at Woodland Park Zoo, visit www.zoo.org or call 206.548.2500.

Conservation International (CI) applies innovations in science, economics, policy and community participation to protect the Earth's richest regions of plant and animal diversity and demonstrate that human societies can live harmoniously with nature. Founded in 1987, CI works in more than 40 countries on four continents to help people find economic alternatives without harming their natural environments. For more information about CI, visit www.conservation.org.

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society's mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. For more information about NGS, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC HISTORY MAGAZINE DEBUTS IN ITALY

2009-02-27

WASHINGTON (Feb. 27, 2009)—A new history magazine, National Geographic Storica, launched in Italy in February. It will be published monthly under license from National Geographic by RBA Italia, the Italian branch of RBA Edipresse S.L., Spain's leading publisher. RBA Italia, formed in 2007, has been developing partwork publications for newsstands and direct mail, and Storica is the company's first monthly magazine.

The publication is the second history magazine published by National Geographic; National Geographic Historia was created in 2003 by RBA, the Society's publishing partner in Spain. Today the magazine has a readership of over 500,000 and is the fifth-largest-circulation magazine in Spain.

National Geographic Historia will provide most of the content of the new National Geographic Storica publication, with a focus on classical and modern history from the beginning of recorded time to the 18th century. The first issue includes stories about the death of Tutankhamun, the journey of Magellan, the ancient hills of Rome and the real story of Merlin the magician.

Lavishly illustrated with photographs, original artwork and the trademark maps of National Geographic, the magazine will be available by subscription and on newsstands.

Giorgio Rivieccio is editor-in-chief of National Geographic Storica. A noted science journalist and author, Rivieccio was editor-in-chief of the science magazine Newton for the past 11 years. He also teaches journalism at the International School for Advanced Studies in Trieste and at the University of Rome Tor Vergata.

"National Geographic Storica will give history enthusiasts in Italy National Geographic's unique look at civilizations and events past and present, in a popular and informative approach, with accuracy and graphic excellence," said Terry Adamson, National Geographic's executive vice president. "The periodical will build on the strength of the National Geographic brand firmly established in Italy over the last decade through the publication of National Geographic magazine and books and the reach of National Geographic Channels International."

National Geographic magazine has been published in Italian since 1998 by Gruppo Editoriale L'Espresso. White Star has been publishing National Geographic books since 2001. National Geographic Channels International has five channels in Italy and reaches more than 4.7 million households on the satellite platform SKY Italia.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 325 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER MAGAZINE LAUNCHES IN INDONESIA

2009-02-27

WASHINGTON (March 4, 2009)—A new edition of National Geographic Traveler magazine has launched in Indonesia, broadening the international reach of the world's most widely read travel magazine to 13 local-language editions. The Bahasa Indonesia edition, which debuted in January, is published by Kompas Gramedia Group, a Jakarta-based publishing group that publishes both National Geographic magazine in Indonesia and the country's largest newspaper, Kompas.

Editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler Indonesia is Tantyo Bangun, a documentary filmmaker and photographer, who also edits National Geographic magazine. Published under license from the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C., each issue of National Geographic Traveler Indonesia will adhere to the core principles of the U.S. edition — culture, authenticity and sustainability — while also exhibiting a unique local editorial flavor. The Bahasa Indonesia edition features about 40 percent of the English-language-edition content and 60 percent new editorial material.

Local-language editions of National Geographic Traveler are also available in China, Spain, Russia, the Netherlands, Israel, Poland, Slovenia, Latin America, Armenia, Czech Republic, Croatia and Romania.

"National Geographic Traveler tells incomparable stories about the peoples and places of the world. Leading with an insider's perspective, we emphasize the intrinsic flavor of each place we cover," said Keith Bellows, editor of National Geographic Traveler.

In addition to the Bahasa Indonesia editions of National Geographic magazine and National Geographic Traveler magazine, the National Geographic Channel also is available in Indonesia, on four pay-TV platforms: Indovision, First Media, Telkomvision and Indosat. Additionally, the Nat Geo Adventure channel is available on First Media, Telkomvision and Indosat.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 325 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF SECOND INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST FOR KIDS

2008-12-23

WASHINGTON (Dec. 23, 2008)—Contestants from the Netherlands, Hungary and the United States are the winners in the National Geographic Society's second annual international photography contest for kids, conducted in partnership with National Geographic Kids magazine and 15 of its local-language editions.

Simon van Lierde of the Netherlands is the grand-prize winner for his photograph of a child swinging, in the People category. The first runner-up is Lilla Balajthy of Hungary for her photograph of ants on a beach, in the Animals category; second runner-up is Carolyn Faye Twersky of Connecticut, for her photo of pipe art, in the Scenery category. As grand-prize winner, van Lierde will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C. The runners-up will receive a certificate of merit from National Geographic.

The three winning images were chosen from more than 15,000 entries from the participating editions. Each edition held local contests, and in the final round they sent one photograph from each of the three categories to National Geographic's headquarters for judging by National Geographic Kids Editor in Chief Melina Bellows, National Geographic photographer Annie Griffiths Belt and National Geographic Kids Photo Director Jay Sumner.

The local-language editions of National Geographic Kids that took part in the contest along with the U.S. edition were Bulgaria, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Latin America, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, South Africa, Turkey and United Kingdom.

National Geographic Kids, geared towards children ages 6 to 14, is an interactive, multi-topic magazine covering animals, entertainment, science, technology, current events and cultures from around the world. It is now published in 18 local-language editions.

National Geographic is synonymous with unparalleled photographic excellence. The magazine draws on the best photographers around the world and devotes more resources to photography than any other general- interest magazine. Since the 1890s, National Geographic photographers have captured images where readers could not go themselves: places too far, too deep, too dark, too dangerous. Recent advances in photographic technology have illuminated and captured much of the previously unknown.

Through the lenses of National Geographic's photographers, readers have been able to view unique life forms on the ocean floor, visit sunken ships, explore Egyptian tombs, "see" the temperature ranges of a star, discover the hidden world inside our bodies, observe the microscopic world of molecules and subatomic particles, and savor the perfect structure of a snowflake.

Today, National Geographic's photographic archive contains 10.5 million images; a selection of these is available for advertising use. National Geographic offers photography workshops and expeditions and publishes photography field guides as well as signature coffee-table photo books.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 325 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC AND WORLDWIDE RETAIL STORE TO LAUNCH FIRST ASIAN FLAGSHIP STORE IN SINGAPORE

2008-12-12

SINGAPORE (Dec. 12, 2008)--National Geographic and Barcelona-based Worldwide Retail Store SL have chosen Singapore as the site of the Society's first flagship store in Asia. Opening on Sunday, Dec. 14, the store in Singapore's Vivo City will be National Geographic's second global experiential space, following the launch of its store in London last month.

One of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations, National Geographic has a rich 120-year heritage of inspiring people to care about the planet through its media offerings, education and research programs. The Asian store will bring together the Society's exclusive products and services in a constantly evolving, highly immersive and culturally inspired setting.

The store will be geared toward amateur explorers, travel enthusiasts, adventure seekers and environmentalists -- a rapidly growing segment of Singapore's population, as shown by a recent study that indicated a nearly 10 percent increase in overseas travel among Singaporeans from 2006 to 2007.

The Singapore store opening builds on the success of National Geographic's strong subscriber base for its media products, with National Geographic Channel available in more than 56 million homes in Asia Pacific and more than 100,000 readers of its magazines in Singapore.

Located at Vivo City, Singapore's largest shopping mall in the vibrant HarbourFront precinct, the new National Geographic store is designed to appeal to Singaporeans' taste for adventure and diverse cultures. More than a traditional retail environment, the 1,500-square- metre (16,146-square-foot) store will feature a retail marketplace, exhibition space and unique "experience zones" for multisensory activities designed to stimulate, educate and inspire visitors.

The exhibition hall will display a rotating showcase of curated exhibits, inspired by content from National Geographic's international channels, magazines and mission-oriented projects. The marketplace will feature a wide selection of National Geographic media products featuring its award-winning content as well as newly created branded merchandise and sustainable, unique, hand-crafted items sourced from global artisans.

The store will feature items produced, sourced or selected by National Geographic. Key product lines include National Geographic's Rugged Basic, International Traveler and Explorer Gear clothing lines and accessories; casual and expedition-style footwear; a full range of optics, from eyewear and binoculars to telescopes and cameras; journals, calendars and other stationery products; maps, atlases and guidebooks; watches; home furnishings and dėcor, with a special emphasis on reclaimed wood pieces; and a wide selection of children's products.

In addition, National Geographic will regularly organise public lectures by some of its most renowned explorers, authors and photographers, as well as free film screenings at Vivo City's outdoor amphitheatre, providing education and entertainment for young and old and for travelers and armchair explorers.

John Fahey, National Geographic's president and CEO, said: "Our goal is to inspire people to care about the planet, and our strategy is to continually find new and exciting ways to reach and engage the public. We're excited about these new retail environments and see them as a perfect complement to our media expansion efforts, which have been so successfully realized with our local-language magazines and our international channels. As a result of this exciting new partnership, National Geographic will be able to reach people in their communities on a more personal level and inspire them with fresh experiences."

The partnership grants Worldwide Retail Store an exclusive retail license for National Geographic stores in more than 80 countries outside the United States and will include flagship retail environments, airport stores and boutique offerings. Additional store openings are planned worldwide in 2009.

Pere Matamales, CEO of Worldwide Retail Store SL, said: "We are proud to partner with National Geographic, a great global brand with an unrivalled heritage and reputation. The stores and their carefully chosen product lines will appeal to both National Geographic's wide consumer base and a fast-growing group of environmentally aware shoppers. We are confident of the long-term growth potential of the Asian retail market. This marks our first retail investment in Singapore. We believe that Singapore, with its cosmopolitan, multicultural population and strong retail and tourism sectors, will be an excellent starting point to establish a strong retail presence and events hub for National Geographic in Asia."

National Geographic reaches 325 million people around the world each month through its magazines, television programmes, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, exhibitions; school publishing programmes, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic's net proceeds support the Society's exploration, conservation, research and education programmes.

About National Geographic
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its National Geographic magazine, the Society's official journal, published in English and 31 local-language editions, is read by more than 40 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches over 270 million households in 34 languages in 166 countries. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 12 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education programme combating geography illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

About Worldwide Retail Store
Worldwide Retail Store SL is a holding company based in Barcelona, with a paid-up capital of 27 million EURO, owned by the executive management team and by Spanish investors Casagrande de Cartagena SL, Riofisa and Allegra Holding. In a demonstration of commitment to the partnership, National Geographic also has a 5 percent stock option in Worldwide Retail Store.

For general enquiries, email opportunities@worldwideretailstore.com

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TO LAUNCH ITS FIRST GLOBAL RETAIL STORE ON LONDON'S REGENT STREET

2008-11-11

LONDON (Nov. 11, 2008)—A new and exciting way to explore the planet arrives in London this week when National Geographic opens its first global retail store on Regent Street, in the heart of London's most elite shopping district, on Friday, Nov. 14. Drawing on National Geographic's 120-year heritage of inspiring people to care about the planet, National Geographic's new flagship store will bring together its products and services in a constantly evolving, culturally inspired setting.

More than a traditional retail environment, the Regent Street store will feature compelling interactive visual displays and state-of-the-art design dedicated to stimulating, educating and inspiring visitors to celebrate global cultures. In addition to its retail marketplace, the store will feature an exhibition area, auditorium, tapas café, travel desk and photography studio, set across three floors and approximately 1,800 square metres (19,375 square feet).

The auditorium will offer public lectures from some of National Geographic's most renowned explorers, authors and photographers, as well as free film screenings. The exhibition hall will display a rotating showcase of curated exhibits inspired by content from National Geographic's international channels, magazines and mission-oriented projects, such as the Genographic Project.

Visitors can stop by the café to sample a selection of tapas, composed of slow food, organic food, fair trade and other specialty items. They can also peruse National Geographic's travel and cartographic library, book National Geographic Expeditions and local tours, and try out apparel and accessories for their upcoming adventures. The photography studio will allow visitors to test equipment and consult with National Geographic's optics specialists.

The marketplace will feature a wide selection of National Geographic products featuring its award-winning magazines, books and DVDs, as well as newly created products and unique, hand-crafted items sourced from global artisans and not typically offered in the United Kingdom. Locally sourced collectables from Africa make up a portion of these items and include original artifacts and tools found in indigenous tribes. Custom jewellery and hand-stitched camel hide bags from Kenya are among the authentic and sustainable items on offer.

Key product lines in the store will include apparel, footwear, eyewear, stationery, maps, watches, home furnishings and a wide selection of children's products.

The store will also offer items designed for the rigours of adventures and exploration, from casual travel gear to expedition-quality apparel, including hi-tech waterproof bags and innovative, multi-layered apparel suitable for diverse climates and activities. Consumers can road-test their apparel in the store's product-testing area, featuring wind gusts, extreme temperature changes and other conditions that simulate the often challenging environments that National Geographic explorers experience in the field.

Eclectic furniture and home décor items will be featured in displays and will be available for sale. They include a variety of pieces constructed of wood reclaimed from old furniture, buildings, bridges and railways. Sample furniture and home décor items include armchairs, tables, lamps and glassware available in a variety of colors, textures and finishes.

Drawing from its mission to inspire people to care about the planet, National Geographic has built its flagship store with eco-friendly design elements and plans to incorporate additional sustainable practices in its daily operations.

National Geographic's net proceeds support the Society's exploration, conservation, research and education programs.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organisations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, exhibitions; school publishing programs, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic magazine, the Society's official journal, published in English and 31 local-language editions, is read by more than 40 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches over 270 million households in 34 languages in 166 countries. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 12 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education programme combating geography illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

**THE ALPHABET, TYRIAN PURPLE ... AND GENES: GENOGRAPHIC SCIENTISTS UNCOVER NEW PIECE OF PHOENICIAN LEGACY**

2008-10-30

WASHINGTON (Oct. 30, 2008)--The Phoenicians gave the world the alphabet and a love of the color purple, and a research study published today by Genographic scientists in the American Journal of Human Genetics (AJHG-D-08-00725R2) shows that they left some people their genes as well. The study finds that as many as one in 17 men in the Mediterranean basin may have a Phoenician as a direct male-line ancestor.

National Geographic and IBM's Genographic Project scientific consortium have developed a new analytical method for detecting the subtle genetic impact of historical population migrations. Its first application has been to reveal the genetic legacy of the Phoenicians, an intriguing and mysterious first-millennium B.C. trading empire. From their base in present-day Lebanon, the Phoenicians expanded by sea throughout the Mediterranean, founding colonies as far afield as Spain and North Africa, where their most powerful city, Carthage, was located. The world's first "global capitalists," the Phoenicians controlled trade throughout the Mediterranean basin for nearly a thousand years until their conquest by Rome in the 2nd century B.C. Over the ensuing centuries, much of what was known about this enigmatic people was lost or destroyed.

Chris Tyler-Smith, a Genographic research associate from The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, said: "When we started, we knew nothing about the genetics of the Phoenicians. All we had to guide us was history: We knew where they had and hadn't settled. But this simple information turned out to be enough, with the help of modern genetics, to trace a vanished people."

The new analytical method looked for genetic signatures in modern men (Y-chromosomal lineages are present exclusively in males) that were more common in regions with a Phoenician history than in nearby places where the Phoenicians had never lived. It revealed a handful of genetic lineages that are shared among far-flung populations from around the Mediterranean, all united by just one feature: They had been Phoenician colonies. (The geographic scope of this study stretched from coastal Lebanon to coastal Spain and from coastal Tunisia to coastal Italy.)

Daniel Platt, of IBM's Computational Biology Center at the T. J. Watson Research Center, said: "The results are important because they show that the Phoenician settlement sites are marked by a genetic signature distinct from any that might have been left by other trading and settlement expansions through history, or which may have emerged by chance. This proves that these settlements, some of which lasted hundreds of years, left a genetic legacy that persists to modern times."

Adding together all the lineages suggests that the Phoenicians contributed at least 6 percent to the modern populations -- one boy in each school class from Cyprus to Tunis may be a direct male-line descendant of the Phoenician traders.

Pierre Zalloua, Genographic principal investigator, Middle East/North Africa, said: "This study brings to life a magnificent piece of our population heritage that has been buried or forgotten. This new finding is a key fortification against miscomprehension or misconceptions of our history. Only a comprehensive knowledge of our past can help strengthen our modern identity. It is a challenging but a wonderful undertaking to be able to unravel and write your own history."

The study highlights the importance of Genographic's globally coordinated data-gathering effort, the first and largest of its kind in population genetics today. Genographic Project Director Spencer Wells noted, "This study was only possible because of the research network we have created through the Genographic consortium, where the participation of volunteers around the world helps us uncover these fascinating stories. It is only through such coordinated efforts that we are able to detect the subtle details of Phoenician migration patterns, and we believe this new method will allow us -- and other scientists in the future -- to uncover previously undetected genetic footprints in other regions of the world."

Background: The Genographic Project was launched in 2005, by National Geographic and IBM, with field research by the Waitt Family Foundation and laboratory research supported by Applied Biosystems, using genetics as a tool to address anthropological questions on a global scale. At the core of the project is a global consortium of 10 regional scientific teams following an ethical and scientific framework and who are responsible for sample collection and analysis in their respective regions. The Project is open to members of the public to participate through purchasing a public participation kit from the Genographic Web site (www.nationalgeographic.com/genographic), where they can also choose to donate their genetic results to the expanding database. Sales of the kits help fund research and support a Legacy Fund for indigenous peoples' community-led language revitalization and cultural projects.

NOTES: To view publication in full: http://www.cell.com/AJHG/fulltext/S0002-9297(08)00547-8

For print copies of the paper, contact Cathleen Genova (AJHG), cgenova@cell.com or +1 617 397 2802.

For interviews with Genographic researchers, contact Glynnis Breen, gbreen@ngs.org or +1 202 857 7481.

For interviews with IBM researchers, contact Michael Loughran, mloughra@us.ibm.com or +1 914 945 2895.

For photographs: http://ftp.nationalgeographic.com/pressroom/genographic_images/
USER NAME: press PASSWORD: press

About National Geographic
Founded in 1888, National Geographic is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Its mission is to increase and diffuse geographic knowledge while inspiring people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its seven magazines, cable television channels and programs, films, radio, books, videos, maps, interactive media, exhibitions and merchandise, reaching more than 325 million people each month. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

About IBM
IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with more than 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. It has a long history of innovating on behalf of society, and in recent years has launched a series of major research initiatives designed to overcome many of the remaining "grand challenges" of science, including the Deep Blue chess-playing computer and unraveling the mysteries of protein folding with BlueGene, the world's fastest supercomputer. IBM Research is the world's largest information technology research organization, with more than 3,000 scientists and engineers at eight labs in six countries. For more information about IBM, visit www.ibm.com.

About the Waitt Family Foundation
Established in 1993 by Gateway Computer founder and now chairman Ted Waitt and his wife, Joan, the Waitt Family Foundation focuses on humankind's past, present and future. Specifically, the foundation funds projects aimed at making discoveries about our past that will help inform the way we are today and reveal untapped possibilities for the future. For more information about the Waitt Family Foundation, visit www.waittfoundation.org.

ACADEMY AWARD-WINNING NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC AND IMAGENATION ABU DHABI FORM JOINT VENTURE TO FINANCE FEATURE FILMS

2008-10-09

ABU DHABI (Oct. 11, 2008)—National Geographic Entertainment and Imagenation Abu Dhabi will commit $100 million for the production of 10 to 15 films over the next five years. The fund was announced today by Tim Kelly, president of National Geographic Global Media, and Edward Borgerding, CEO of Imagenation Abu Dhabi, a wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Media Company.

National Geographic Entertainment, a division of National Geographic Global Media, will, in association with Imagenation Abu Dhabi, develop, produce, finance and acquire films that focus on people's relationship to the world, their environment and each other. The films will be budgeted between $5 million and $60 million.

Mohamed Khalaf Al-Mazrouei, chairman of Imagenation Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Media Company, said, "National Geographic is a perfect partner for Imagenation Abu Dhabi. It is one of the most identifiable and respected global brands, and we are delighted to be working with this great organization as it expands its film presence. National Geographic stands for quality and is a renowned leader not just in media, but also in science, education and exploration. It has always been able to tell epic life adventures in ways that deeply move people of all cultures around the world."

National Geographic's Tim Kelly said, "National Geographic has many exciting and important stories to tell, and at the heart of each film will be something vital, a subject that matters. When we talk to talent, we discover that National Geographic has always been part of their lives. With this film fund, we will be able to expand our outreach into the creative community and help filmmakers produce the kinds of films they dreamed of making when they entered the industry."

Edward Borgerding, CEO of Abu Dhabi Media Company and Imagenation , said, "This deal with National Geographic continues our strategy of building relationships with the world's leading media companies. This partnership supports our aim to produce award-winning films that are commercially successful and appealing to diverse cultures around the globe."

Jake Eberts, chairman of National Geographic Films, added, "National Geographic has access to a seemingly endless treasure trove of images and stories. Each one has the potential to affect our lives. I believe it is our moral obligation to use the power of film to bring people of different cultures together. Imagenation Abu Dhabi and National Geographic are ideally suited to do this."

Other key personnel involved in the fund include David Beal, president of National Geographic Entertainment; Adam Leipzig, president, National Geographic Films; Lisa Truitt, president, National Geographic Cinema Ventures, which produces and distributes giant screen films; and Stefan Brunner, chief financial officer of Imagenation Abu Dhabi.

About National Geographic Entertainment
National Geographic Entertainment (NGE) combines into a single operating group National Geographic's Cinema Ventures, Films, Kids Entertainment, Home Entertainment and Music & Radio. NGE is part of National Geographic Global Media (NGGM), bringing together all of National Geographic's editorial platforms in order to streamline collaboration and further support the Society's mission. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," National Geographic works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 325 million people worldwide each month through magazines, books, digital media, and television, radio, music and film. It funds more than 250 scientific research, exploration and conservation projects each year and supports an education program combating geography illiteracy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

About Imagenation Abu Dhabi
Imagenation Abu Dhabi is a wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Media Company, which launched on Sept. 3, 2008. The company will develop, finance and produce full-length feature films and digital content for Arabic and global markets. From its base in Abu Dhabi, the company is establishing partnerships with high-profile, internationally based producers to develop and produce content for distribution internationally, in addition to supporting Middle East filmmakers and Arabian film production. For more information: http://www.imagenationabudhabi.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC HOME ENTERTAINMENT PARTNERS WITH TARGET ENTERTAINMENT GROUP TO DISTRIBUTE DVDS IN U.K. AND IRELAND

2008-09-02

WASHINGTON (Sept. 2, 2008)—National Geographic Home Entertainment has announced a new partnership with Target Entertainment Group for the marketing and distribution of National Geographic's DVD products in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The three-year deal will introduce at least eight new titles into the marketplace by the end of December 2008, with additional titles to be added early in 2009.

Target will launch a range of National Geographic titles this fall, including the release of several Blu-ray discs, which will showcase the quality and substance of National Geographic's programming. The first Blu-ray titles scheduled for release are "Amazing Planet," "Stonehenge Decoded," "Incredible Human Machine" and "Into the Wilderness." Other DVD titles out by year-end include "Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure," "Forces of Nature," "Into the Great Pyramid" and "Planet Carnivore."

"The U.K. is an extremely important market for us, and we are delighted to have Target representing National Geographic's award-winning DVD products in this region. Target's expertise in documentaries and distribution makes them a great partner for our titles as we continue to expand our Home Entertainment DVD business in the U.K.," said Julie Bellonte, senior vice president, National Geographic International Home Entertainment.

"We are excited and proud to be representing one of the most recognized and trusted media brands in the world. National Geographic has a vast catalogue of amazing programming, which we are looking forward to bringing out on DVD and Blu-ray for the first time," added Duncan Sibbald, director of U.K. DVD at Target Entertainment Group.

About National Geographic
National Geographic Ventures (NGV) is a wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of National Geographic Society, one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the National Geographic Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. NGV includes National Geographic Television (NGT) production and distribution, National Geographic Television International, National Geographic Films and National Geographic Cinema Ventures, Kids Entertainment, National Geographic Home Entertainment, Digital Media including Digital Motion (formerly the Film Library) and Nationalgeographic.com, as well as National Geographic Maps. NGV creates and distributes content across multi-platforms and media providing outlets for the hundreds of scientific and expedition-based grants awarded each year. For more information, go to www.nationalgeographic.com.

About Target Entertainment Group
Target Entertainment Group is a leading international production and rights management business. With offices in London, New York and Los Angeles, it produces content and manages rights and brands. Target Entertainment Group was formed by CEO Alison Rayson as an international TV distribution company in 1998. In 2004 it launched entertainment production, licensing and home entertainment divisions. Since then it has expanded further by setting up a children's and family production division and a feature film investment and sales arm. In 2007 Target acquired U.K. distribution company Minotaur International, followed by leading U.K. drama production company Greenlit Rights in early 2008.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES THIRD ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

2008-07-15

WASHINGTON (July 15, 2008)—National Geographic readers around the world are invited to take part in the 2008 National Geographic International Photography Contest beginning in August. Readers of National Geographic's English-language editions in Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United States and United Kingdom are eligible to participate, as are readers in 26 local-language editions. The contest was inaugurated in 16 local-language editions in 2006.

English-language-edition entries in three categories — People, Places and Nature — will be judged at National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C. The local-language editions will each submit the winning entries in each category to headquarters to be judged with the winning English-language entries. National Geographic judges will announce three international grand-prize winners in December 2008. The panel of judges will be composed of professional photojournalists, including one from National Geographic.

The contest is open to eligible adult participants. Winning entries from each territory will be featured in local editions of National Geographic magazine. First-place category winners of the English-language-edition competition will win a digital SLR camera kit. The international grand-prize winners will receive a trip to National Geographic headquarters, and their winning entries will be published in the English-language and other editions of National Geographic magazine.

"We are thrilled to continue our annual photography contest," said National Geographic Director of Photography David Griffin. "The work we have been seeing in recent years is truly astounding and speaks to the truth that photography is a world-wide, universal language — one that everyone can appreciate and enjoy."

For English-language-edition contestants, up to a total of six photographs across the three categories should be submitted electronically to ngphotocontest.com. Entries must be received between midnight (12 a.m.) U.S. Eastern Daylight Time on Friday, Aug.1, and
11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Daylight Time on Friday, Oct. 31. Photos can be black-and-white or color, shot with a digital camera or with conventional film, and submitted digitally. For details and official contest rules, visit ngphotocontest.com.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 300 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; radio programs; films; books; DVDs; maps; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LAUNCHES WEB SITE IN JAPAN

2008-06-03

WASHINGTON (June 3, 2008)—National Geographic Ventures, in partnership with Broadmedia Corporation, announces the launch of the Japanese-language version of National Geographic's award-winning Web site, http://www.nationalgeographic.co.jp/, a new local-language portal from National Geographic Digital Media. Japanese speakers can explore the world of NationalGeographic.com — winner of five 2008 Codie Awards — and enjoy world-renowned photos, videos, articles and information in their native language.

"The launch of this Japanese-language site continues National Geographic's commitment to and success in extending its brand globally through a localized focus. We hope to make the Web site a vital destination for the Japanese market, which will further spread our mission of inspiring people to care about the planet," said Ted Prince, COO, National Geographic Ventures.

The site features content from NationalGeographic.com's most popular content categories, including photo galleries and videos, as well as localized news and events impacting the Japanese audience. Categories include Environment and Nature, which highlights environmental issues; People and Places, which features countries and cultures from around the globe; Animals, which offers an up-close exploration of animals, from insects to mammals, and their habitats; and News, a daily, updated source of articles from around the world, including announcements or discoveries related to such topics as environment, nature, culture and science.
"Working with National Geographic has provided inspiration and a superb Web destination for exploring culture and science online," said Taro Hashimoto, CEO of Broadmedia Corporation. "We fully support National Geographic's mission, and hope that the launch of the Web site will encourage learning and cultivate enthusiasm for the environment and the world we live in."

With more than 3,000 pages of continuously updated content, the site launches with nearly 200 videos dubbed in Japanese and more than 1,200 photos from some of the world's top photographers — all free for users to enjoy.

In Japan, National Geographic magazine is published in Japanese through a joint venture with Nikkei BP, and the National Geographic Channel is offered through a partnership with News Broadcasting Japan Corporation.

About National Geographic

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, school publishing programs, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic magazine, the Society's official journal, published in English and 31 local-language editions, is read by more than 40 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches over 250 million households in 34 languages in 166 countries. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 12 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 8,800 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geography illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

About National Geographic Ventures

National Geographic Ventures is the taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society and includes groups such as National Geographic Television, National Geographic Digital Media, which operates NationalGeographic.com, and National Geographic Maps.

About Broadmedia Corporation

As a content distributor with its own technology platforms, Broadmedia provides content from domestic and foreign content holders to a full line of media including terrestrial, cable and satellite TV, theatrical, broadband Internet, mobile and DVD. Also, through proprietary technology platforms, Broadmedia provides content delivery services ideal for broadband, and also sells broadband and mobile connectivity to further the spread of content services. For more information, please go to www.broadmedia.co.jp.

DATES FOR STONEHENGE BURIALS SIGNIFY LONG USE AS CEMETERY

2008-05-29

WASHINGTON (May 29, 2008) - New radiocarbon dates of human cremation burials at England's Stonehenge indicate that the monument was used as a cemetery from its inception just after 3000 B.C. until well after the large stones went up around 2500 B.C.

Many archaeologists previously believed that people had been buried at Stonehenge only between 2700 and 2600 B.C., before the large stones, known as sarsens, were put in place. The new dates provide strong clues about the original purpose of the monument and show that its use as a cemetery extended for more than 500 years.

"It's now clear that burials were a major component of Stonehenge in all its main stages," said Mike Parker Pearson, archaeology professor at the University of Sheffield (U.K.), who with National Geographic support leads the Stonehenge Riverside Archaeological Project. "Stonehenge was a place of burial from its beginning to its zenith in the mid third millennium B.C. The cremation burial dating to Stonehenge's sarsen stones phase is likely just one of many from this later period of the monument's use and demonstrates that it was still very much a 'domain of the dead.'"

The earliest cremation burial dated - a small pile of burned bones and teeth - came from one of the pits around Stonehenge's edge known as the Aubrey Holes and dates to 3030-2880 B.C., roughly the time when Stonehenge's ditch-and-bank monument was cut into Salisbury Plain. The second burial, from the ditch surrounding Stonehenge, is that of an adult and dates to 2930-2870 B.C. The most recent cremation, Parker Pearson said, comes from the ditch's northern side and was of a 25-year-old woman; it dates to 2570-2340 B.C., around the time the first arrangements of sarsen stones appeared at Stonehenge.

The work at Stonehenge is featured in the June 2008 issue of National Geographic magazine. An exclusive look at the new discoveries will appear in a global premiere on the National Geographic Channel - "Stonehenge Decoded" - on Sunday, June 1, (9 p.m. ET/PT in the U.S.; check local listings internationally). Stonehenge also is featured in the June/July 2008 issue of National Geographic Kids magazine.

This is the first time any of the cremation burials from Stonehenge have been radiocarbon dated. The burials dated by Parker Pearson's team were excavated in the 1950s and have been kept at the nearby Salisbury Museum.

Another 49 cremation burials were dug up at Stonehenge during the 1920s, but all were put back in the ground because they were thought to be of no scientific value. Archaeologists estimate that up to 240 people were buried within Stonehenge, all as cremation deposits.

Parker Pearson's colleague at Sheffield, Andrew Chamberlain, a specialist in ancient demography, theorizes that the cremation burials represent the natural deaths of a single elite family and its descendants, perhaps a ruling dynasty. One clue to this, Professor Chamberlain says, is the small number of burials in Stonehenge's earliest phase, a number that grows larger in subsequent centuries, as offspring would have multiplied.

Another is the graves' placement in such an impressive monumental site. "I don't think it was the common people getting buried at Stonehenge - it was clearly a special place at that time," Parker Pearson said. "One has to assume anyone buried there had some good credentials."

"The people buried here must have been drawn from a very small and select living population," he said. "Archaeologists have long speculated about whether Stonehenge was put up by prehistoric chiefs - perhaps even ancient royalty - and the new results suggest that not only is this likely to have been the case but it also was the resting place of their mortal remains."

Besides conducting the radiocarbon dating, this season the archaeologists also excavated houses at nearby Durrington Walls, precisely dated Stonehenge's cursus - the ditched enclosure that has long puzzled archaeologists - and made new discoveries about the "Cuckoo Stone" and timber monuments south of Woodhenge.

Much of the focus for the fifth year of the eight-year Stonehenge Riverside Project was at Durrington Walls, Stonehenge's sister henge some 2 miles away, which like most of the Stonehenge landscape is owned and managed by the National Trust. Parker Pearson believes Durrington was built to accommodate the living, in contrast to Stonehenge's more somber purpose as a monument to the dead.

Last year the project archaeologists announced the discovery in 2006 of a large seasonal village where Stonehenge's builders are thought to have lived some 4,600 years ago, grouped around a timber version of Stonehenge. This season (2007) the team excavated four of those houses that once sat on a hillside, one of them especially well-preserved. Excavation of it turned up a wall made of cobb - a mixture of broken chalk and chunky plaster - that is the oldest such wall found in Britain. The other houses were found to be mostly of wattle-and-daub construction.

In the well-preserved house, which measured 4.8 by 5.2 meters (about 16 feet square), researchers unearthed bits of Stone Age life - flint tools, the end of a broken-off dress pin and two teacup-sized pits in the house's corners containing tiny, sharp chippings of flint, apparently swept there by the residents. Imprints of beds and a dresser also were visible around the edges of the floor. In the house's center, by the remains of an oval-shaped hearth, two thick grooves are visible in the floor, "right in that part of the fire where the floor has been stained with ash," Parker Pearson reports. "Whoever was in charge of the housework and the cooking was kneeling there."

The team also uncovered several houses along a broad avenue that links Durrington Walls with the nearby River Avon. These were three-sided structures with fireplaces, Parker Pearson said, perhaps used by spectators at processions that once moved up and down the avenue to the river.

The season's work leads Parker Pearson to believe that Durrington Walls was made up of a large, circular village of more than 300 houses, making it the largest village of its time in northwest Europe. "We think that both men and women and presumably children were living there - everybody seemed to have been involved in the building of Stonehenge," he said.

Preliminary results of environmental analyses suggest this was a seasonal settlement. The absence of certain items, such as newborn pigs and cattle, together with archaeological evidence of culling of pigs in the midwinter period, suggest that people journeyed to the site with prepared foodstuffs and animals only at certain times of the year, Parker Pearson said.
New radiocarbon dates of an antler pick used for digging tell a story about the Stonehenge Greater Cursus, a cigar-shaped ditched enclosure nearly two miles long. The new date - 3630 to 3375 B.C. - puts the cursus 1,000 years before the erection of Stonehenge's sarsens. Archaeologist Julian Thomas of the University of Manchester in England, who led that investigation, says the cursus' two parallel ditches enclosed a linear space that might have been considered sacred. "Our excavation shows it's almost clean - no other animal bones or other deposits," Professor Thomas said. The exact purpose of the cursus is unknown.

On the same axis as the cursus, the Cuckoo Stone was the source of another of the season's revelations. The archaeologists, led by Colin Richards of the University of Manchester, found that the stone, a squat sarsen boulder that lies on its side, had originally come from that location, unlike many other stones at Stonehenge. In Neolithic times, the stone was placed vertically near special pits used for depositing items, according to Richards. "We find again and again that the antler picks used for digging - still perfectly usable - have been deliberately buried in pits as if for ritual," Parker Pearson said.

Along the cliff top south of the timber monument known as Woodhenge, archaeologists led by Joshua Pollard of the University of Bristol discovered two oval-fenced areas enclosing dramatic, monumental timber structures, each anchored by four large posts. "These obviously were not domestic buildings," Pollard said. "Their purpose is uncertain, but it's possible they supported raised platforms where bodies of the dead were left to decay."

"All in all, we're finding that Stonehenge was a sophisticated society with great achievements," Parker Pearson said. "I doubt they realized they would create such a great mystery for the world to come."

The Stonehenge Riverside Project is funded by the National Geographic Society and Britain's Arts & Humanities Research Council, with support from English Heritage. Directors of the Project include Mike Parker Pearson (Sheffield), Julian Thomas (Manchester), Joshua Pollard (Bristol), Colin Richards (Manchester), Chris Tilley, University College London, and Kate Welham, University of Bournemouth.

More on Stonehenge can be viewed at www.nationalgeographic.com/stonehenge.

A short-form video on these discoveries is available from nationalgeographic.com and can be embedded on your Web site. To do so, please contact Barbara Moffet at (202) 857-7756.