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Twenty years and great aspirations at the 12th World WEEC Congress

15 February 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

Record-breaking numbers and prime factors were highlighted at the 12th edition of the World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC), which took place in Abu Dhabi from January 29 to February 2. Approximately 3000 delegates from 83 countries worldwide participated, alongside over 330 speakers who led more than 300 parallel sessions. Organized by the Permanent Secretariat of the WEEC Network based in Italy and the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency, the congress brought together environmental educators, teachers, associations, and institutions from across the globe.

“The WEEC 2024 Congress,” remarked Secretary General Mario Salomone, “represents a global commitment to environmental education, mirrored by the hosting country’s presidency of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The United Arab Emirates’ pivotal role as our host has catalyzed a ripple effect that, I believe, will resonate far beyond the congress, inspiring significant change worldwide.”

The 2024 WEEC congress also marked twenty years since its inaugural gathering in Portugal in 2003, commemorated through a dedicated side event. It served as a platform to reflect on past commitments and set goals for the next two decades. Among these discussions was the announcement of the next edition, slated for September 2026 in Perth, Australia, organized in collaboration with the Australian Association for Environmental Education.

The rotation of congress locations worldwide aims to address diverse contexts, tailoring environmental education and sustainability efforts to specific regional needs, challenges, and resources. Each destination brings with it distinct traditions, cultures, economic structures, and social dynamics, offering pertinent insights, cutting-edge research, and effective practices.

To capture the unique narrative of the United Arab Emirates, the fifth day of the congress ventured into the field with a series of excursions spotlighting local environmental education initiatives. These ranged from exploring the Jubail Mangrove Park, where the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency has recently planted approximately 15 million mangroves to support the UAE’s goal of planting 100 million mangroves by 2030, to visiting the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, the largest facility dedicated to marine research, rescue, and rehabilitation in the region.

Throughout the four days at the congress center, nine plenary sessions featured presentations from esteemed international speakers, including Mirian Vileda, Eureta Rosenberg, Akpezi Ogbuigwe, Purnima Devi Barman, Carlos Alvarez Pereira, Judy Braus, Kartikeya Vikram Sarabhai, Daniel Schaffer, and Gayatri Raghwa, among others.

A significant focus was placed on engaging youth, evident in the Youth Environmental Education Conference (YEEC) – a parallel event to the main congress since 2019. This edition saw substantial growth in both programming and participation, with around sixty speakers and hundreds of Emirati and international youth engaging in workshops, debates, and activities like the escape room and a daily podcast, a first in congress history, providing an innovative platform for sustainability discussions.

Connected to the YEEC area, a spacious exhibit zone facilitated interactions with local and international associations and universities. The “Sustainability Wall” showcased principles, objectives, and examples to inspire attendees to make a personal commitment to enhancing the sustainability of WEEC2024.

Emphasizing the concept of legacy, efforts were made to leave the congress venue better than before. As part of this commitment, the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency pledged to plant around 15,000 mangroves as a compensation activity. This tangible initiative, endorsed by WEEC, underscores the integration of environmental education into all facets of life.

The future of humanity depends on enabling everybody’s capacity to learn

14 February 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

The Fifth Element programme of The Club of Rome and The World Environmental Education Congress are joining forces to collaborate on a new project, sparked by the 45^th anniversary of the report No Limits to Learning. The collaboration will focus on the transformative and regenerative function of learning at its full potential.

Overcoming the challenges that humanity is facing today will require a cultural transformation with collective learning at its heart. The Fifth Element’s vision is to explore and facilitate the recognition of blind spots and help catalyse the emergence of a revolution of mindsets towards equitable wellbeing on a healthy planet.

In the opening ceremony of the 12th edition of the World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) in Abu Dhabi, the Secretary-General of the WEEC Permanent Secretariat, Mario Salomone, announced this collaboration between The Club of Rome and the WEEC Network to address the multidimensional challenges of the current “polycrisis”.

“Learning processes are essential. Through learning, we acquire the elements to move between the paths of history and the cases of life. We can learn well or poorly. We can become selfish and individualistic or supportive and cooperative. We can absorb conservative or innovative knowledge. Unlike material growth, which is impossible on a finite planet, learning has no limits.” commented Salomone.

45 years after the publication of the report to The Club of Rome No Limits to Learning, the words of Aurelio Peccei, founder of The Club of Rome, are still valid and powerful: “What we all need at this point in human evolution is to learn what it takes to learn what we should learn – and learn it.” This quote serves as the guiding inspiration for this new collaboration between The Club of Rome and the WEEC Network.

One of the aims is to understand better what is still blocking the potential of human communities everywhere to learn by themselves their pathways to regenerative and hence sustainable futures. As put forward by No Limits to Learning, making learning participatory, anticipatory, innovative and integrative would shape the responses we need for desirable futures.

Carlos Álvarez Pereira, Secretary General of The Club of Rome, commented: “The resonance between so many initiatives of transformational learning all around the world is critical. Resonance creates the conditions for mutual learning and will ultimately lead to systemic change towards equitable wellbeing within a healthy planet”.

In 2021 The Club of Rome published Learning New Ways of Becoming Human to reframe the current polycrisis as a failure in our collective capacity to learn and highlight at the same time the huge potential at our hands, provided that people are allowed to learn and address the existential challenges in their own ways. The future of humanity depends on how we bet today on the humanity and capacity of everybody.

The collaboration between The Club of Rome and the World Environmental Education Congress Network will unfold over two years and result in a new publication as an update to No Limits to Learning in the light of the transformations that have occurred since then. This new report will be presented at the WEEC 2026.

For more information or to arrange interviews contact:

Philippa Baumgartner pbaumgartner@clubofrome.org

The Fifth Element is an initiative hosted by The Club of Rome which seeks to create a future of equitable wellbeing within a healthy ecosystem. We shift focus from stakeholders to human beings, fostering connections and creating space for people and organisations to engage in their own learning processes. Through engagements and initiatives based on a combination of traditional wisdom and leading-edge science, we are working to catalyse the emergence of a human revolution.

www.thefifthelement.earth

The Club of Rome is a platform of diverse thought leaders who identify holistic solutions to complex global issues and promote policy initiatives and action to enable humanity to emerge from multiple planetary emergencies. The organisation has prioritised five key areas of impact: Emerging New Civilisations; Planetary Emergency; Reframing Economics; Rethinking Finance; and Youth Leadership and Intergenerational Dialogues.

www.clubofrome.org

The World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) is an international network of environmental educators and organisations that promote education for sustainable development. The WEEC network aims to provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices in environmental education. The network organizes a biennial congress that brings together environmental educators, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to discuss and share their work. The congresses have been held in various locations around the world since the first one in 2003.

www.weecnetwork.org

WEEC2024: a global gathering for sustainable solutions

29 January 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

The twelfth edition of the World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) kicks off in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The opening ceremony saw the participation of prominent figures, including H.E. Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, UAE; H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA); Mario Salomone, Secretary-General of the World Environmental Education Congress Network; and Elizabeth Wathuti, Kenyan youth activist, Founder, and Executive Director of Green Generation Initiative, Kenya.

The WEEC Network Secretary-General Mario Salomone addressed the theme of interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity, emphasizing that the environment represents the crossroads of perspectives and is the ideal ground for building such approaches. He highlighted that the challenge of environmental crises is not merely academic but involves Western science, the relationship between expert knowledge and traditional knowledge, raises ethical-political issues, and requires a profound restructuring of knowledge, structures, and laws. He announced a new collaboration between the Club of Rome and the global WEEC network, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating the centrality of environmental education. This collaboration aims to better understand the nature of learning today, based on the message conveyed by the Club of Rome’s report, “No Limits to Learning.”

Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri focused her speech on three crucial themes: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, in her address, highlighted the importance of the involvement of women and youth, emphasized significant transformations in the United Arab Emirates, and underscored the transformative power of education.

Plenary 1: the triple planetary crisis – aligning EE and ESD

During subsequent plenary sessions, numerous national and international authorities contributed, including H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of IUCN, who stated, “Government action alone is not sufficient; everyone’s help is needed. WEEC plays a crucial role, inspiring, empowering, and embracing the new economy.” She also announced a commitment to creating a roadmap for developing an educational set for young people.
Following H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak’s remarks, Jack Dangermond, President, Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), USA, ha preso la parola.
Mr. Dangermond highlighted the success and challenges faced by our species, acknowledging the exponential growth in technology over the last 300 years. He expressed concern about the human footprint dominating the planet’s evolution and how it now poses a threat to our future, especially due to overpopulation. He stressed the critical need for understanding and collaboration to address the challenges ahead.

High level leaders’ panel discussion

After them, several other notable speakers took the stage during subsequent panel discussion:
Abdul-Majeid Haddad, Deputy Regional Director, UNEP, West Asia O¬ce, Lebanon, emphasized the importance of educators having an environmental spirit and transferring it to education. He discussed the role of educators as custodians for laws, needing to provide incentives for environmental education through both formal and informal approaches. Formal education would involve legal frameworks, while informal education would inspire youth to become champions and educators themselves.
Panelists:
H.E. Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, United Arab Emirates.
Dr. Al Shamsi emphasized that environmental education is not solely the responsibility of educators but of everyone. She highlighted the power and connectivity of education, reaching every household. To integrate environmental education into daily life, it must be instilled as part of people’s values, especially considering they are the future educators and scientists.

H.E. Mamo Boru Mamo, Director General, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya.
Mr. Mamo discussed the need to supervise and coordinate environmental issues in Kenya due to limited resources. He emphasized the importance of laws and regulations in the constitution to manage and protect the environment. Addressing environmental quality should be both an individual and collective effort.
Lorenzo Fioramonti, Former Education Minister, Italy.
Mr. Fioramonti shared his experience encouraging students to strike for better education. He highlighted the difficulty of changing school curricula but stressed the importance of introducing environmental sustainability as an experiential subject. Investing in education is crucial for building a strong economy, with children being fundamental ambassadors of change.
Ginger Potter, Senior Education Specialist, Environmental Protection Agency – USA.
Ms. Potter addressed the challenge of environmental education not being mandated by the constitution in the USA, leading to only half of the states incorporating it into their curriculum. She emphasized the need for government investment and laws to ensure every student learns about the environment, framing it as a national security issue.

WEEC kicks off with great success and will continue until February 2, 2024. The World Environmental Education Congress represents a crucial catalyst for inspiring, empowering, and embracing the new economy, continuing to play a fundamental role in promoting a sustainable future through environmental education.

Leveraging COP 28 consensus for inclusive socio-environmental transformation

22 January 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

Brazil and paths after COP 28

by Dra. Vanessa Sousa de Oliveira, Dr. Marcos Vinicius Campelo Junior

Between November 30 and December 12, 2023, the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The 195 participating countries discussed strategies to reduce, mitigate, and control the emission of greenhouse gases, responsible for climate change.

The Conference of the Parties (COPs) is the most important international meetings to discuss climate change. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) agreement establishes commitments and obligations for the signatory countries, where strategies to curb the acceleration of climate change are discussed and negotiated.

The final document of COP 28 can be analyzed from different perspectives. When assessing global responses to climate change, the goal of uniting efforts to ensure the stabilization of the planet’s warming at 1.5°C, as defined in the Paris Agreement, identified significant omissions in the commitments made, especially by developed countries. The existing advancements were considered timid and disjointed.

For the first time, the overall balance of the Paris Agreement explicitly addresses the reduction of production and consumption of fossil fuels, ensuring global consensus on an energy transition and assigning greater responsibility to developed countries. However, the reduction values and funding sources for decarbonization of energy systems were not defined.

Another achievement is the connection with the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) through issues directly related to the conservation of biodiversity, its sustainable use, and the fair and equitable sharing of genetic resources in the three levels categorized in the CBD: ecosystems, species, and genetic resources.

In its participation, Brazil focused on mediating consensus between developed countries and those that can develop in setting goals and fulfilling them in addressing climate change. It is certain that to achieve environmental justice, one must consider the historical gap between rich and poor nations. Proportionally, nations with greater economic power must initiate the process of abandoning fossil fuels, thinking about decarbonization within the set goals.

Given Brazil’s socio-environmental importance on the international stage and anticipating its role as the host country for COP 30 in Belém do Pará (PA) in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon in 2030, how can Brazil use the current established consensus to strengthen its actions domestically and present itself as a leader in the global environmental context with internal proposals that go beyond reducing deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest?

Brazil, as a strategic environmental actor, plays an important role in this context and can contribute with successful experiences and new models of socio-environmental management. These biomes present a significant representation of sociobiodiversity: forests, wildlife, and the presence of people who inhabit these spaces, such as quilombolas, indigenous peoples, riparian dwellers, rubber tappers, and others.

We believe that Brazil’s significant contribution to the international decarbonization process lies in public policies focused on resolving internal conflicts that directly affect the existence of indigenous and traditional peoples, as well as the quality of life in urban centers. Reducing socio-environmental inequalities, ensuring fundamental rights, and protecting biomes that are directly related.

Ensuring the legal protection of indigenous and quilombola lands and their way of life integrated with nature; Expediting agrarian reform, which constitutionally revolves around the social use of land. Expanding successful experiences of sustainable agriculture and livestock farming carried out by social movements in rural areas; Incorporating clean technologies produced in universities into urban mobility structures, construction, and educational processes for new generations.

Finally, it will be necessary to unite governments, civil society, researchers, and others in this endeavor, which may be our last chance to “postpone the end of the world” (a reference to the title of Ailton Krenak’s book). Thus, social justice, climate justice, and the reduction of inequalities form an inseparable triad that will underpin the processes of economic, social, and symbolic decarbonization. Above all, we need to decarbonize our thinking!

The programme of WEEC2024: everything you need to know

16 January 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

The 12th World Environmental Education Congress in Abu Dhabi, from January 29 to February 2, 2024 is about to be an incredibly meaningful and exciting experience for all Environmental Education enthusiasts attending. 5 days of presentations, discussions, learning and networking opportunities, educational field trips and much more: we are looking forward to meeting in the capital city of the UAE in the name of sustainability. Let’s delve into this rich and articulate programme: here’s everything you need to know before the 12th WEEC Congress.

The Congress Sessions
During the congress, 287 sessions will take place. This number includes both plenary and parallel sessions: the former being important collective moments of discussions with some of the most esteemed personalities in the EE field, such as the opening session with Secretary General of WEEC Network, Mario Salomone and Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri; the latters comprising all of the different sessions where delegates will present their abstracts and works. The Parallel Sessions are divided into the four thematic groups: the Challenges, the Goals, the Dimensions and the Means.

YEEC Congress
The Youth Environmental Education Conference (YEEC) is a dedicated program for participants aged 13–30 from around the world. Aligned with the WEEC Congress, this unique platform caters to youth interested in environmentalism, categorizing them into three groups: Youngsters (13–17 years), Young Adults (18–21 years), and Young Professionals (22–30 years). Here, participants have the opportunity to express their thoughts, articulate ideas, and contribute new energies to discussions on environmental education and sustainability. This setting also facilitates networking and connections with fellow environmental enthusiasts from various countries.

Honourable Speakers
In the history of the WEEC Congress, our network has consistently had the honor of hosting distinguished personalities in the field who share their insights with the Congress audience. This year is no exception: our esteemed panel of Honourable Speakers will provide unique and significant perspectives on Environmental Education throughout the entire duration of the Congress. The lineup includes young and passionate activists like Elizabeth Wathuti, esteemed and recognized professionals such as Lorenzo Fioramonti, influential authors like Gunter Pauli, and renowned artists like Ricki Kej. This diverse and eclectic group of speakers will shed light on the importance of environmentalism and education across various fields and sectors

Side events
Book launches, interactive activities, workshops, and engaging dialogues with other environmental organizations—these Side Events at WEEC2024 form a vibrant platform that illuminates the collaborative endeavors of diverse global organizations in the field of environmental education. The lineup of speakers, including students, spans across different regions and represents academia, intergovernmental bodies, governments, national and international institutions, and schools. This convergence serves the purpose of showcasing and celebrating the multifaceted initiatives undertaken to promote environmental education and awareness on a global scale.

Educational Field Trips
Integrating theory with hands-on experiences, the educational field trips during WEEC2024 offer an exciting opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and environmental education landmarks in and around Abu Dhabi. Participants can tailor their experience by selecting from a variety of morning, afternoon, or full-day activities to actively engage in environmental education. Options include visits to breathtaking sights such as the Jubail Mangrove Park or Samaliya Island, or delving into the country’s efforts to preserve local flora and fauna at places like the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Centre. Each field trip promises to be a thrilling and informative experience, contributing to the overall impact of WEEC2024 and ensuring it becomes an unforgettable educational journey for all participants.

The 12th WEEC’s legacy: a commitment to sustainability

16 January 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

The 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) is unwavering in its commitment to sustainability, with the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) playing a central role in championing green practices.

In the realm of sustainable event design, the WEEC adheres to ISO guidelines 20121:2012, incorporating practical strategies such as QR codes for menus, promotion of healthier options, and the use of eco-friendly materials for event accessories. Menus are thoughtfully crafted to be low in carbon emissions through comprehensive life cycle assessments.
ADNEC stands out as an institution committed to renewable energy utilization, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A power-down plan further contributes to energy conservation, aligning with the event’s eco-conscious approach.

Delving into nutritionally optimal menus, the WEEC ensures a balanced culinary experience with fresh ingredients, emphasizing low salt, sugar, and unnecessary fats for overall well-being. Sustainable food sourcing is a priority, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and the inclusion of vegan options, thereby reducing environmental impact and fostering shorter supply chains.
Collaboration with the local community fosters a circular economy and reduced food miles, exemplified by a focus on seasonal local cuisine to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
Eco-friendly operations extend to biodegradable packaging, the conversion of used cooking oil into biodiesel, and campaigns aimed at eliminating plastic straws and reducing the use of disposable cups, showcasing a comprehensive approach to minimizing the ecological impact of the event.

Going beyond reduction efforts, the WEEC has engaged specialist consultants to monitor the carbon footprint of all delegates, encompassing travel and accommodation. This data will inform the planting of mangroves post-event to offset calculated carbon footprints.
This mangrove planting initiative serves as a tangible part of the WEEC’s legacy, aligning with the event’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Moreover, involving local schools provides students with a unique learning opportunity, engaging them in site selection, planting, and long-term monitoring of the mangroves.

Beyond environmental considerations, the WEEC prioritizes social sustainability by ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. The event’s website complies with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 – W3C, while plenary sessions feature interpreters proficient in both Arabic and English sign language. Rigorous risk assessments at ADNEC ensure independent navigation for all participants, and individuals with special needs, referred to as “Persons of Determination“, actively contribute to the congress as speakers and workshop attendees.

In conclusion, the 12th WEEC is not just an event; it is a legacy in the making, integrating environmental and social considerations into every facet of its planning and execution. This discursive approach emphasizes the holistic commitment to sustainability that defines the essence of the congress.

Call for Papers: Kurdish Studies journal welcomes submissions for 2024 issue

8 January 2024/0 Comments/in News, Press/by WEEC Network

The editorial team of Kurdish Studies journal is delighted to announce the Call for papers for the first issue of 2024. With ISSN 2051-4883, the journal invites scholars, researchers, and practitioners from diverse disciplines to contribute their original research, theoretical insights, and critical perspectives to enrich the field of Kurdish Studies.

About the journal: Kurdish Studies journal is a multidisciplinary platform dedicated to the exploration of Kurdish studies. Covering aspects such as history, culture, society, politics, language, literature, arts, economy, and diaspora, the journal welcomes contributions from anthropology, history, sociology, political science, linguistics, literature, gender studies, migration studies, human rights, business studies, and social sciences.

Submission guidelines: Original research articles, review articles, book reviews, and opinion pieces are invited for submission. Manuscripts should be in English, adhering to the journal’s guidelines available on the website. A stringent double-blind peer-review process will be conducted to uphold scholarly standards.

Important dates:

Deadline for submission: 15th January 2024
Notification of acceptance: Within one week
Expected publication date: January 2024

Submission process: Manuscripts can be submitted electronically via email to submissions@kurdishstudies.info. The editorial team will assist authors throughout the submission process, providing updates on the progress of their submissions.

Publication and open access: Kurdish Studies is an open-access journal, ensuring the broadest possible dissemination of scholarly research. Published articles will be freely available worldwide, promoting accessibility and impact.

Contact information: For inquiries or additional information, please contact the editorial team at submissions@kurdishstudies.info.

We eagerly anticipate your valuable contributions and active participation in advancing the diverse field of Kurdish studies. Submissions can be made following the guidelines on our website: https://kurdishstudies.net/.

Developing educational action: the success of World EE Day 2023

9 November 2023/0 Comments/in News, World EE Day/by WEEC Network

On 14 October 2023 the 7th World environmental education day took place. On this day, in 1977, the UN Conference in Tbilisi, Georgia noted the unanimous accord in the important role of the EE in the preservation and improvement of the world’s environment. 46 years later, WEEC continues to advocate and strive for environmental education to maintain its crucial role in paving a green road towards more sustainable societies.

Since World EE Day was established, WEEC has encouraged organizations around the world to promote initiatives and projects related to environmental education in the month of October. From festivals to conferences, from workshops to academic study projects, we received many communications through our online form of initiatives related to World environmental education eay 2023.

This is our final report for this year’s World EE Day: here are some meaningful and remarkable projects from all over the world.

Every year we at WEEC, together with our local italian networks, fulfill our educational and environmental mission with the organization of many events, in the city of Turin and on italian territory. Events like the Earth Festival in Luino (VA), which has reached its third edition this year and has received a great response in participation from the public. For three days, from October 12 to 15, the picturesque town on Lake Maggiore hosted exhibitions, performances, conferences, workshops, and events for schools, each of them focusing on the role of Environmental Education in preserving “Nature, Climate and Biodiversity”.

In Turin, the local association of WEEC Casa dell’Ambiente organized, on October 17, a screening open to the public of the 2020 Documentary “Citizen Nobel” by Stephane Goel. Following the life and achievements of Nobel Prize Winner and environmentalist Jacques Dubochet, the documentary is an example of great commitment to the environment and sparked discussion among the audience, hosted in our headquarter in the Capital city of Piedmont region.

Can sea lettuce (ulva lactuca), whose population is increasing uncontrollably in Izmir Bay and seems to be an environmental problem, turn into a sustainable benefit? Project Ulva Pac, led by a group of researchers from Turkey, tried to answer this question. Findings from the study showed that Ulva Lactuca has a lot of cellulose among its biological components, which is very important for packaging. Its cultivation offers advantages over land-based sources of lignin-containing cellulose such as cotton, requiring smaller quantities of fresh water and pesticides, therefore having a lower water and carbon footprint and unprecedented potential for a green and blue economy.

Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) has partnered with Fortress REIT to combine the Fortress Running Series with environmental education and social development, a partnership aiming to upskill the community and make a positive impact. The first race was held in Rustenburg, South Africa in July 2022 and was coupled with a tree planting day at nearby schools, and the project continues today, with events organized for World EE Day 2023. On the Friday before each of the races, the FTFA team hosts activities at schools in the area, including a climate change workshop, the “Climate Hero” training for a group of learners at each school, and the planting of trees at the schools through FTFA’s Trees for All programme. The running series is part of a broader strategy to future-proof Fortress REIT communities and to promote environmental education in South African territory.

Plastic Free Odv Onlus is a volunteering association founded on July 29, 2019, aiming at raising awareness and educating italian communities about the dangers of plastic pollution; with more than 1000 representatives all over Italy, Plastic Free has become one of the most important association in the field, organizing clean-ups, concrete actions for turtles protection and conservation and events in italian schools and cities. To promote its activities and on the occasion of World EE Day 2023, the local section of Plastic Free Pavia has organized a video-photographic exhibition on Sunday October 22 at Cupola Arnaboldi in Pavia (IT). Since 2021, Plastic Free in Pavia and in the Ticino Park has contributed with concrete actions in the area (clean-ups), in schools and at events to raise awareness among pupils and citizens about protecting the environment.

For the second consecutive year, the Municipality of Esparreguera, Tallers Artístics i Culturals d’Esparreguera (Barcelona), in cooperation with the Department of Agroecology of the University of Humboldt (Germany), X Eleva Group (Mexico) and The Handprint Initiative (Mexico-Barcelona), organized a two days online symposium on 26 and 27 October, for the exchange of experiences between international professionals and focusing on the best educational practices and the Art as a transdisciplinary tool. The II Virtual Symposium “Art and Global Citizenship Education” offers the opportunity for new collaborations among people around the world, given the need to generate spaces for reflection and collaboration in the face of global challenges, allowing the strengthening of educational strategies that integrate the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting the Global Citizenship Education.

“Bracing Biophilia” is an exploratory research programme which verifies the effect of Nature-based ILEs on pupils’ attentional performance and affiliation with Nature, led by researchers from the University of Aosta Valley, Italy. Biophilic design is an architectural model that offers the possibility to create the Nature-based Innovative Learning Environment (ILE), which might support cognitive processes and stimulate affiliation with Nature. The experimental observations spanned three school years; they were carried out within a conventional learning environment in the first year and in a biophilic designed one in the next two. The results, shared during the month of October 2023, show that learning environments with biophilic design, in addition to being preferred and perceived as more restorative, are more effective in supporting pupils’ attentional performance than conventional learning environments and, over time, strengthen the feeling of affiliation with Nature.

St Kizito Schools, in Kampala, Uganda organized project-based Initiatives for Engaging Youths in Climate Action, promoting nature-stewardship and green entrepreneurship among pupils and students by imparting knowledge, skills and values related to sustainability. The environmental teaching and learning activities are conducted at different learning levels, sharing knowledge about nature using stories, scrap-books and media, engaging children in nature-based experiences like outdoor nature-play activities and interaction with animals and promoting interactive/reflective activities like debates, quiz and oral presentations and much more. On October 14, the schools hosted the ambassador of Sweden in Uganda as they celebrated 25 years of climate activism, bringing her on a tour of all the green projects of the two schools in Kampala.

A group of teachers of the ITCG OGGIANO high school in Siniscola, Sardinia, organized an ecological walk at the Mandras Pine Forest in the Santa Lucia Area. The event aimed to involve the school community and the local area in an experience of territorial and sensory regeneration within the Tepilora, Rio Posada, and Montalbo Biosphere Reserve, raising awareness within the community about environmental conservation with a focus on sustainable development and the valorization of the region. Participants acquired specific knowledge about the territory, recognizing and appreciating its value and potential, through inclusive approaches, including those for more vulnerable individuals. The event, held on October 19, also involved the cleaning of the environment from waste and the promotion of environmental sustainability through good practices.

Democracy in a Hotter Time: navigating the challenges of climate change

21 September 2023/in News/by WEEC Network

In a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but a harsh reality, the pages of the book “Democracy in a Hotter Time” edited by David W. Orr beckon us to contemplate the nexus between democracy and the climate crisis. Let us embark on a journey to understand the vital role democracy plays in shaping our response to the greatest challenge of our era.

The crisis at hand

The year 2023 has already witnessed extreme heatwaves and devastating wildfires. These climate-related catastrophes are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a broader crisis—a political crisis that has gripped democracies worldwide for the past half-century. As David W. Orr reminds us, this crisis has contributed to the Earth being hotter now than it has been in millennia, threatening the very fabric of our existence. It is a crisis that demands our attention and action.

Democracy versus autocracy

In a world struggling to confront climate change, we find ourselves at a crossroads. On one side, there are growing anti-democracy movements that advocate for authoritarian rule, believing it to be more efficient in addressing complex issues. However, history reveals a different truth. Autocratic leaders often rely on corruption, fear, and division to maintain power, failing to tackle long-term problems like climate change effectively. In contrast, democracy rests on the foundation that people have an inherent right to participate in decisions that impact their lives. The climate crisis adds a new dimension to this, emphasizing that everyone must be engaged, informed, and involved because climate change affects us all. The creativity, energy, and knowledge of the broader public are indispensable in the battle against a destabilizing climate, as history has shown during times of crisis, such as World War II.

Evolution of democracy

David W. Orr takes us on a historical journey through the evolution of democracy, from its inception around tribal campfires (democracy 1.0) to the public dialogue and reasoned arguments of Ancient Greece (democracy 2.0), and the ideals of the American Revolution (democracy 3.0). Yet, today, we face the challenge of envisioning democracy 4.0, a democracy that must adapt governance, law, politics, and economies to the complex reality of our Earth as a biophysical system.

The vision of democracy 4.0

Democracy 4.0 demands more than just minor improvements to our present systems. It requires us to reorient our values, prioritize the rights of people over money, uphold the rights of future generations and the natural world, and ensure an equitable distribution of costs, risks, and benefits within and between generations. At its core, democracy 4.0 is founded on a moral imperative—a belief in our collective responsibility to protect the planet and each other. It calls for a shift from individualistic pronouns like “I” and “me” to inclusive pronouns like “we” and “us.” This transformation will manifest differently across cultures, but its essence remains the same: the rejection of domination, oligarchy, technical shortcuts, and above all, violence.

While democracy 4.0 may seem like a distant goal, history has taught us that ideas can spread rapidly in our interconnected world. We must work diligently to educate and mobilize citizens who are both ecologically competent and civically aware. Environmental literacy, civic principles, and the understanding of Earth systems science should be integral to every student’s education. As we move forward, let us remember that the “Great Work” of our rising generation is to build an inclusive movement—one that values clean water, clean air, a stable climate, a fair economy, and the collective voice of people. This movement acknowledges that our future is inherently political, focusing on the fundamental question of “who gets what, when, and how.” In closing, “Democracy in a Hotter Time” serves as a profound call to action. It challenges us to reimagine and reinvent democracy for the age of climate crisis. While the path to democracy 4.0 is fraught with challenges, it is not an impossible endeavor. As we face a world where time is of the essence, let us draw inspiration from the pages of this book and work tirelessly toward a future where democracy and sustainability are not mere aspirations but the bedrock of our existence.

Last Five Days to Secure Your Early Bird Discount for WEEC Congress!

15 September 2023/in News/by WEEC Network

Join the Environmental Education Network in Abu Dhabi from January 29th to February 2nd, 2024

Are you passionate about environmental education and eager to connect with leading experts in the field? The World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) is just around the corner, and there are only five days left to take advantage of our special Early Bird discount. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to become a part of our vibrant community.

WEEC Congress Highlights:

The WEEC Congress is set to take place in the stunning city of Abu Dhabi from January 29th to February 2nd, 2024. It promises to be a gathering of some of the world’s foremost experts in environmental education.

One key feature that sets WEEC apart is our commitment to inclusivity. If you haven’t received acceptance for your abstract yet, worry not! You can still secure the discounted rate even after the deadline has passed.

Registration Costs:

Conference Delegate (Teachers, Academics, Business Community): USD 450
Conference Youth (Students, Young Researchers, and Young Professionals, age between 18-30 years): USD 400
Conference Pass for NGOs or Residents of Least Developed Countries: USD 350
Conference Group Rates (5+ pax / 10+ pax): -10% / -20%

This is a unique opportunity to engage with the latest developments in environmental education, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Act now to secure your spot at the WEEC Congress at a discounted rate before it’s too late!

To register and learn more about the event, please visit our official website.

Don’t miss out on this chance to make a difference and be a part of a global network dedicated to environmental education. We look forward to welcoming you to Abu Dhabi for the WEEC Congress in 2024!