Well played, Brazil

The Brazilian government has a plan for fighting Amazon deforestation and AIDS simultaneously: manufacturing condoms from native Amazonian tree-rubber. (Reuters)

The scheme is hoped to "cut dependence on imported contraceptives" (the Brazilian government is the world's biggest buyer of condoms, used in AIDS prevention programs) while generating income for Amazon residents from harvesting rubber rather than cutting down trees.

Meanwhile, campus environmental groups everywhere now have a great idea for an Earth Day giveaway, if they can get their hands on some tropical tree-condoms.