Arcandina

In 1998, JHU/PCS and Arcandina developed a set of messages to help children understand the links between population, health, and the environment (PHE). These PHE messages emphasise the interdependence between population, consumption habits, technology, available resources, and the environment. For instance, discussions about the problem of water scarcity encourage viewers to increase the use of a glass and to turn off the faucet when brushing their teeth. The problem of destruction of forests is addressed by encouraging writing on both sides of sheets of paper. In addition, viewers are urged to increase the number of native trees planted, to cease littering, to turn lights off when leaving a room, and to support the use of municipal centers to check cars' exhaust systems.

The programme also includes a 15-minute children's television show entitled "A Magical Trip to the Enchanted Islands." On November 27, 1999, as part of the re-launch of this show, more than two thousand Ecuadorian children gathered at the largest of Quito's theaters to make a commitment to protect the Galapagos Islands. They demanded that population growth be slowed so that the environment and species of these islands would no longer be harmed. Activities during this launching ceremony included appearances by TV characters and the display of a giant banner on which children had painted messages about protecting the islands. In addition, the Environmental Director of the Metropolitan Quito District took the opportunity to baptise the Arcandina Ark with ashes from the Guagua Pichincha volcano. The Ark is a five-meter long mobile centre for environmental education that supports Arcandina activities. Immediately after the launch, the children were able to sign up for Arcandina memberships at the Ark and at the new Arcandina headquarters. The Ark then participated in the Quito Festival parade, which drew 30,000 spectators along a 10-mile route.

The second season of the Arcandina TV show aired for 30 minutes on weekdays from November 1999 to March 2000. Each episode showcased the adventures of the Arcandina crew and profiled population-environment links through musical and informational segments. Viewers were also engaged through daily telephone contests based on the segments aired that day. A total of 60 episodes were produced and broadcast.

The Arcandina television show is complemented by activities in schools. A network of primary schools pre-tested a curriculum that incorporates population-environment themes into all areas of study.

In 2002, Arcandina received international recognition from the US-based National Wildlife Federation, which awarded their Conservation Achievement Award for Best International Program to Arcandina.