Writing from Rio, Dianna Cohen and Daniella Russo.

Upon arrival at Rio airport, we are greeted by a massive installation of bromeliads made of plastic, spoons and bottles! Is that a special treat for us? Rio is every bit as colorful as we imagined, and all delegates for the conference are treated with great attention and care. For which we are deeply grateful after an almost 15-hr journey.

Our first and very exciting experience is a concert at the Humanidade 2012 exhibit in the Forte de Copacabana, by Landfill Harmonic, a group of young performers from Paraguay. Humanidade 2012 is a joint initiative of the City of Rio de Janeiro and many local NGOs, designed to highlight the important role that Brazil currently plays as a global leader in sustainable development.

The group from Paraguay is a very unique experience: beautiful sounds produced on musical instruments made from trash — completely recycled materials. The young musicians stole the hearts of the audience with their commitment to sustainable lifestyles and beauty. Please visit their web site for videos and more information about this important project.

The evening is complete with a talk by a senior NASA Official, aboard the Tocorime, a unique educational vessel dedicated specifically to reach youth and inspire leadership through science and education.

We brought our 1-pager in Portuguese and shared stainless steel straws and stories about plastic pollution with everyone we met.

Excited about tomorrow, and the many events still to attend!

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