Native Calgarian turned international popstar, Kiesza, took to the Calgary Zoo on Friday to help bring awareness to a program that protects gorilla habitat in the wild.
“I was fortunate to recently travel to Rwanda where I was able to interact with mountain gorillas,” said Kiesza. “My passion for gorillas is only rivaled by my passion for music."
The artist says she’s thrilled to work with the Calgary Zoo on a program that will help increase the endangered species’ numbers.
The Calgary Zoo and GEEP have partnered for a cell phone recycling program with a focus on reducing waste currently destined for landfills. Minerals used in the coating of cell phone components are mined from areas where gorillas live. Reusing the minerals reduces the human imposition on the habitat of gorillas.
“When I was (in Africa) I learned a lot more about what kills their environment as well,” said Kiesza. “What’s going on with the Calgary Zoo right now is actually really important because a lot of mining is what’s killing their environment, especially in the Congo.”
Cell phone collection boxes have been placed throughout the zoo’s TransAlta Rainforest Building, which houses the gorilla troop, and at Guest Services. Zoo visitors are encouraged to bring their unwanted cell phones on their next trip to donate to the cause.
