In 2011, the Year of Biodiversity, WWF-CARPO and Estelle Levin Limited are trying to do something momentous: to begin a systematic and coordinated effort to curb the distressing environmental impact of small scale mining, and increasing its economic and social empowerment. For ethical jewelers and responsible jewelry buyers around the world, this is excellent news.

World Wildlife Fund has teamed up with Estelle Levin Ltd to support a systematic and coordinated effort to curb the distressing environmental impact of small scale mining, and increasing its economic and social empowerment. Read their announcement and PDF brochure here explaining the program ASM-PSEP, and what you can do to help. ~ Marc Choyt,

Greg Valerio, activist, jeweler and co-founder of Fair Jewelry Action, has been named by the Guardian as a finalist in Ethical Award under the category, Global Campaigners. The other two finalists are Greenpeace and Avaaz. In listing its finalists, the Guardian wrote, “Greg is a pioneer in the international development of fairly traded jewellery and