In Memoriam: Wangari Maathai

Wangari Maathai, Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, passed away at the age of 71.  Known around the world for her activism and advocacy for women, Maathai may be best remembered for the simple courage of encouraging women to plant trees.  She founded the Green Belt Movement in the 1970's, teaching women to plant trees as a way to maintain the fuel supply and prevent soil erosion.  Discouraged by the Kenyan government and dissuaded by her university faculty peers, she faced life's challenges with humor, grace and strength. 

Here at chocolate granola, we take a moment of silence to remember this great woman warrior, peace maker, activist.  Please see below for news coverage of her passing, interview clips and other links.

• NYTimes coverage of her passing
• Environmental icon: 
• Memories from her colleagues  
• Nobel prize interview and recognition 
• Kenyan and United Nations legacy