Earth's pride

MANILA, Philippines - “We, the Miss Earth 2011 candidates, serve as the environmental ambassadors of our respective countries. Of the many environmental initiatives being pursued by different organizations and governments, we, as a group, believe education should be given top priority and urge our leaders to require schools to include environmental causes in their curriculum. It should be everybody’s agenda to make the Earth smile again.”— Miss Earth 2011 Declaration

Miss Earth Air (first runner-up) 2011 Driely Bennettone personifies Brazil’s high regard for its rich biodiversity and reputation in international beauty pageants.

When asked about her personal environmental advocacy, Bennettone, who was recently in Manila, shared, “I think we must have a strong attitude concerning environmental preservation. If we all do our part, we can change the world. Education and awareness are fundamental. We can start by teaching others about the small things that we can do to help our environment, while also living those lessons out as a role model to the youth. For example, being responsible with how we consume water, wasting less plastic products, walking instead of using cars, etc.”

Miss Earth Air 2011 suggests incorporating sustainability theories along with the usual school subjects like Math, Science and Language. She believes in developing environmental awareness among young children in order to realize a more eco-friendly society.

Miss Earth is an annual international beauty contest. Filipino beauty brand Ever Bilena has been supporting the “pageant with a cause” for four years now — promoting true beauty, both inside and out.