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Join the 13th WEEC Congress: an invitation from Professor Mario Salomone

14 March 2025/in Senza categoria/by weec

The 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to get involved than by watching the special invitation from Professor Mario Salomone, the General Secretary of WEEC Network.

This message, now available on WEEC Network TV on YouTube, encourages individuals, organizations, and institutions dedicated to environmental education to participate in this important global event.

The Importance of Environmental Education

As we all know, the world is facing a series of interconnected environmental crises, from climate change and loss of biodiversity to growing inequality and poverty. These challenges are compounded by rapid technological advancements, globalization, and the urgency of sustainable development. In light of these issues, education plays an even more critical role in shaping a sustainable future. Through environmental education, we can empower individuals, communities, and organizations to make informed decisions, advocate for policies that promote sustainability, and drive innovations that protect our planet and future generations.

Professor Salomone’s invitation highlights how environmental education can bridge the gap between knowledge and action. As he mentions in the video, the congress will provide an essential platform to reflect on the current state of environmental education and explore the necessary transformations to address the accelerating pace of environmental change. Environmental education is not only about raising awareness of issues but also about providing the tools, strategies, and solutions that will enable us to respond to challenges with resilience and creativity. By bringing together people from diverse cultural, geographical, and professional backgrounds, the congress will offer valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange.

The Theme of the 13th WEEC Congress: Gondwana

The theme for the 13th WEEC Congress is “Gondwana: A Meeting of Cultures, Knowledge, and Sustainability.” This theme draws inspiration from the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the world’s cultures, ecosystems, and educational systems. Just as the continents of Gondwana were once part of a unified landmass, so too must we come together to address the global challenges we face. This theme reinforces the need for a global, collaborative approach to sustainability, where different cultures and knowledge systems can contribute to finding solutions.

The congress will explore how environmental education can serve as a catalyst for global cooperation in the face of climate change and other pressing environmental issues. It will be an opportunity to showcase innovative practices, policies, and strategies from around the world, as well as to engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of education and sustainability. Whether you are an educator, a researcher, a policymaker, or someone passionate about environmental change, the 13th WEEC Congress will provide a platform to share ideas, build partnerships, and learn from the best practices of others.

A Call for Global Collaboration

One of the most exciting aspects of the 13th WEEC Congress is its focus on inclusivity and collaboration. Professor Salomone’s invitation encourages everyone—from teachers and students to NGOs, government officials, and business leaders—to come together and contribute to the global movement for sustainability. The congress is designed to be an inclusive space, where voices from all corners of the world are heard, and everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the solutions we need to build a sustainable future.

Environmental education is a field that requires diverse perspectives, especially in the face of complex global challenges. The congress will bring together experts and activists from various sectors and regions, creating a rich tapestry of ideas, experiences, and knowledge. This will not only help to address the urgency of environmental issues but also ensure that solutions are more equitable and culturally appropriate.

Why Attend the 13th WEEC Congress?

The 13th WEEC Congress is an extraordinary opportunity for anyone interested in environmental education and sustainability to expand their knowledge, grow their network, and contribute to meaningful change. Through workshops, keynote sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, participants will have the chance to engage with cutting-edge research, learn about innovative educational practices, and collaborate on solutions that address the critical issues we face.

The congress will focus on several key areas, including climate change education, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and the role of education in shaping responsible global citizens. It will also provide ample opportunities for participants to share their own experiences and best practices in environmental education, creating a collaborative space where learning and action go hand-in-hand.

Get Involved Today

To watch Professor Salomone’s invitation and learn more about the 13th WEEC Congress, head over to WEEC Network TV on YouTube. This video offers a compelling introduction to the congress and its objectives, as well as a glimpse into the exciting opportunities that await participants in Perth, Australia, in 2026.

In the meantime, visit the official congress website at www.weec2026.org for more details on registration and other important information. The 13th WEEC Congress is just around the corner, and we encourage you to stay connected and become part of this global movement for a more sustainable future. Together, we can create the change we want to see in the world.

Let’s Work Together for a Sustainable Future

As Professor Salomone so powerfully states, “Hope animates us, and we do not want to put limits on it.” The 13th WEEC Congress is an opportunity for all of us to unite, share our hope, and work toward a sustainable future through education, collaboration, and action. We hope to see you in Perth, Australia, in September 2026, where we can take part in a transformative event that will shape the future of environmental education for generations to come.

Let’s make a difference together—don’t miss this chance to be part of the solution. Visit www.weec2026.org today to learn more and get involved.

Countdown to the 13th WEEC Congress: discover themes and topics!

7 March 2025/in Senza categoria/by weec

With a year and a half to go, excitement is building for the 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC), set to take place in September 2026. Centered around the main theme, “Reconnecting Resilient Cultures,” the congress promises to bring together global experts, educators, and activists in the field of environmental education to discuss the latest trends, share knowledge, and shape the future of sustainable development. As we approach this landmark event, we are reminded that soon, the call for paper and abstract submissions will open, giving potential speakers the chance to contribute to this global conversation.

The 13th WEEC will be a unique platform for showcasing cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methods, and transformative ideas that are helping to reshape the world of environmental education. It is an opportunity to not only share insights but also connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and beyond.

Themes for WEEC 2026

The themes for WEEC 2026 have already been outlined and serve as the backbone of the event. These themes emphasize the intersection between environmental education and transformative global change, focusing on both urgent environmental issues and long-term sustainable solutions. Some of the key topics include:

Education for Sustainability: Exploring how education can drive global sustainability goals, including climate action and biodiversity preservation.
Youth and Environmental Education: The role of youth in environmental activism, advocacy, and education, with a particular focus on how to engage young people in meaningful ways.
Innovative Pedagogies: The adoption of new teaching methods, digital tools, and practices that can enhance environmental education.
Policy and Education: Understanding how policy frameworks can support environmental education initiatives at local, national, and global levels.
Community-Based Education: Approaches that prioritize local knowledge and community-driven solutions for sustainability.

At the heart of these discussions is the main theme, “Reconnecting Resilient Cultures,” emphasizing the importance of rediscovering and strengthening cultural resilience as a pathway to sustainable futures.

These topics, among others, will guide the sessions at WEEC 2026, ensuring that all contributions address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in environmental education today.

Session Formats: Engaging Audiences and Sharing Knowledge

One of the most exciting features of WEEC 2026 is the variety of session formats that will be offered to engage attendees. Whether you are a researcher, educator, or community leader, there will be a space for you to share your ideas, collaborate with others, and learn from diverse perspectives. The session formats are designed to foster interaction, collaboration, and deep engagement, allowing participants to maximize their experience at the congress.

Here’s a closer look at the session formats available:

Traditional Sessions: These are standard presentations where speakers will present their research or initiatives to an audience. These sessions typically include time for Q&A, enabling attendees to engage directly with the presenters.
Workshops: Designed to be highly interactive, workshops will provide opportunities for hands-on learning. Participants can engage in practical exercises, group discussions, and collaborative problem-solving activities.
Panel Discussions: These sessions will feature experts from different sectors discussing key issues, followed by an open discussion with the audience. Panel discussions aim to address complex topics from multiple perspectives, encouraging diverse viewpoints.
Roundtables: In these smaller, more intimate sessions, participants can engage in focused discussions around specific themes or challenges in environmental education. Roundtables are ideal for networking and building collaborative partnerships.
Poster Sessions: Researchers and practitioners will have the opportunity to present their work visually through posters, allowing attendees to engage in one-on-one conversations about their projects.
Interactive Formats: These may include activities such as debates, role-playing, or participatory exercises that encourage attendees to actively contribute to the learning process.

Call for Submissions: Get Ready to Share Your Work

As the date draws nearer, WEEC is preparing to open submissions for papers and abstracts. If you are interested in presenting at the congress, now is the time to begin preparing your proposals. Whether you’re conducting innovative research, developing new educational strategies, or pioneering community-based initiatives, WEEC 2026 offers a platform to showcase your work and make an impact on a global scale.

Make sure to visit the WEEC 2026 website regularly for updates on submission deadlines, guidelines, and other important information. This is your chance to contribute to the global conversation on transformative environmental education!

For more details about the themes and session formats, visit the official website here. We look forward to seeing how you can contribute to this landmark event!

Promoting transformative education at WEEC 2026: a call for global action

28 February 2025/in Senza categoria/by weec

The 13th World Environmental Education Congress, taking place in Perth, Australia, invites educators, policymakers, and environmental advocates worldwide to engage in transformative learning experiences that challenge and inspire new approaches to environmental education. Underpinned by the wisdom and traditions of Australia’s First Nations, WEECE 2026 offers a unique platform for exploring critical educational themes that shape the future of our planet. This year’s congress will highlight six thought-provoking themes that align with the global push for sustainability, justice, and innovation.

Connection to Country: Learning from Land and Waters
Rooted in the timeless connection to the land and waters held by Australia’s First Nations peoples, the theme Boodjar kep dandjoo emphasizes the importance of place-based education in fostering a deep, personal relationship with the environment. Inspired by more than 50,000 years of Indigenous wisdom, this theme focuses on two-way learning methodologies that bridge the knowledge of local communities with broader environmental education. Participants will explore how place-based education can nurture stewardship, community engagement, and environmental appreciation while promoting sustainability in the context of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Beyond Regenerative Understanding: Shifting to a Low-Carbon Future
The theme Natdjing maladjiny kadadjiny underscores the pivotal role of education in shifting economies towards sustainability. It offers a deep dive into how educational strategies can inspire the transition to low-carbon economies. By focusing on new, sustainable economic models, this theme will spark conversations about how education can empower individuals and societies to adopt practices that support long-term environmental health and equity.

Reclaiming and Revolutionising Education
The transformation of curricula and pedagogy is at the heart of the Karo wer moordoowin korangan kadadjiny theme, which advocates for decolonising education and integrating Indigenous, local, and traditional knowledge. This theme champions a revolution in environmental education, one that respects and promotes equity, resilience, and cultural relevance. By drawing from the rich diversity of perspectives, particularly from the Global South, it calls for a more inclusive and dynamic approach to learning that can better address the environmental challenges of today and tomorrow.

Inspiring Change and Empowering Agency
Under the banner Woola-woola wer moordoowin yang, this theme calls for a global reassessment of educational systems, challenging the status quo and encouraging a shift from conservative to innovative learning. Participants will explore how education can empower learners to become active agents of change in their communities, advocating for systemic transformations that foster creativity, innovation, and the capacity to tackle complex global challenges.

Decision Making and Sense of Justice: Tackling Climate and Social Injustice
Kadadjiny warniny wer moolyak-abiny focuses on the intersection of climate change, social justice, and education. The theme examines the global challenges posed by climate injustice and environmental racism, particularly in vulnerable populations in the Global South. It emphasizes the need for ethical decision-making and education that fosters critical thinking, equipping learners to confront issues of climate and social equity. By focusing on underrepresented groups and empowering ecological refugees, this theme strives to create a more just and sustainable world.

Power of Partnerships and Shared Outcomes
The final theme, Moordoowin-abiny dandjoo wer bwart yang, highlights the significance of collaboration across disciplines in achieving sustainable outcomes. It seeks to break down the silos that often exist within educational institutions, advocating for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches that connect knowledge from various fields. Participants will explore how partnerships between educators, communities, and global stakeholders can drive collective action toward shared sustainability goals.

Many More Themes and Open Participation for All
While these six themes represent some of the highlights of WEECE 2026, the congress will cover many other crucial topics surrounding the future of education and sustainability. The organizers welcome input from all sectors and encourage participants to suggest additional themes they would like to see addressed. This is an open invitation to contribute to the global conversation and ensure that the diverse perspectives of learners and educators are included in the shaping of the congress agenda.

To suggest themes, participate in the conversation, or stay informed, individuals can sign up for the WEECE 2026 newsletter at www.weec2026.org. The newsletter will provide updates on the event, as well as an opportunity to share ideas and engage with the growing community of changemakers.

At WEECE 2026, attendees will not only engage with groundbreaking ideas but also contribute to the global conversation about how education can catalyze transformative change. By exploring these interconnected themes, the congress promises to inspire collective action for a more sustainable, just, and innovative future. Join the conversation today and be part of shaping the educational revolution for tomorrow!

COP27, the annual hope to fight climate change

4 November 2022/in Senza categoria/by weec

The 27th Conference of Parties will be hosted from the 6th to the 18th of November in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt. WEEC Network will follow the event, the opening plenary session will be held on the 6th of November, from 10 am to 1 pm.

According to the scientific community, the window for action on the climate crisis is rapidly closing, and COP27 represents (or should represent) a decisive moment to act based on the successes achieved (and failures) and future goals.

COP, the Conference of Parties, is the annual meeting of the countries that have ratified the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), an international environmental agreement signed during the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Rio de Janeiro, 1992). Its main objective (so far missed) is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming.

COP27 is also an opportunity for all stakeholders to take a stand to address the global challenge of climate change effectively.

A part of the event will be dedicated to environmental education, as in the last editions.

Egypt – according to official statements- takes charge of the COP27 presidency recognizing the gravity of the global climate challenge and the value of collective action as the only means to address this threat, committing itself to support an inclusive, transparent and party-driven process to ensure timely and appropriate action. For further updates, we suggest following our work through our journals and socials.

The World EE Day 2022 at the University of Quebec

2 November 2022/in Senza categoria/by weec

For the World EE Day 2022 the Centre for Research in Environmental Education and Training (Centr’ERE) of the University of Quebec in Montreal, organised a lecture programme, discussing topics of high relevance.

These days mark three symbolic dates whose meanings significantly influence the relationship with education, indigenous peoples and the environment.

On 5 October, for International Teachers’ Day, the Education – Environment – Eco-citizenship Coalition invited its members and the general public to participate in a meeting to update the proposed Quebec Strategy for Environmental Education and Eco-citizenship. The meeting was an invitation to explore the trajectory of this public policy proposal, from its origins, through a series of steps taken by the Coalition to date. We have also presented recent updates to the proposal, opening up a new collective assessment

The 12th of October, known as the Day of the Discovery of the Americas, is symbolically identified as Indigenous Resistance Day, commemorating the 530-year struggles of the First Peoples against colonisers. This event joined the movement for an engaged eco-citizenship, aimed at confronting the current wave of colonisation of territories by the extractive industry.

The seminar took place within the framework of Environmental Education Days 2022 and, more specifically, within the activities of the project Resistaction – Critical and political dimensions of environmental education in the context of socio-ecological conflict and their contribution to the emergence of alternatives, which examines these realities in Quebec and Chile.

Meanwhile, on 13th October, as part of the Environmental Education Days celebrations, Centr’ERE invited participants to a conversation about the place and role of critical pedagogies in this fundamental dimension of education.

In particular, critical pedagogies, associated with the thought of Paulo Freire, have been criticised for not making ecological issues explicit, whereas their potential and proven transformative and emancipatory power leads us to reflect on updating their role in environmental education and eco-citizenship. On the occasion of the Environmental Education Days, Centr’ERE invited participants to a conversation about the place and role of critical pedagogies in this fundamental dimension of education.

A Conference debates on political education in environmental and development issues, concluded the celebrations on 14 October.

This conference proposed to open the debate from a reading of the history of environmental and development education. It discussed the successive currents of environmental education, sustainable development and the Anthropocene era, with a view to highlighting the presence or absence of political education. The paper also pointed to a recent paradigm shift, following two decades of strongly behavioural education for sustainable development, towards education for the Anthropocene that offers more potential for political socialisation. This paper accompanied the publication of number 63 of the journal Éducation et socialisation on the subject, edited by Angela Barthes, Lucie Sauvé and Frédéric Torterat.

Environmental education is to build a new ecological society

14 March 2022/in Senza categoria/by weec

Distinguished representatives of the United Nations institutions at our side since the beginning of our adventure in 2003,

Czech authorities,

All members and staff of the local organizing committee, dear friends and colleagues engaged in environmental education, many warmest thanks for attending this 11th congress in Prague, onsite or online.

In spite of everything, against all the odds, we are here, in some way, in person or thanks to the Internet.

“Thanks” is the first word I want to underline, the second is “In spite of everything, we are here”.

After two years of huge pandemic and in times of war near us, with refugees around us. The situation is getting worse and we express our solidarity for the victims of the war. “Near us” and “around us” is in the literal sense, near Prague and this congress Centre. But in a globalized world, on this small and finite planet, everywhere and everything is “near us”.

So, “Building bridges” and building bridges in times of climate urgency, this title imagined in 2018 is more and more meaningful.

In 1969 Environmental Education, the first journal on environmental education, inside of its first slim 32 pages issue, wrote that the goal of EE is that every citizen “knows it deep in his/her heart and bones, the simple facts that he/she is absolutely dependent on his environment, that he/she is affected by is environment, and that he/she affects his/her environment”.

This goal is ever valid, solid, and compelling.

This year we celebrate two significant fiftieth anniversaries: the first UN conference on the environment in Stockholm and the MIT report to the Club of Rome: “The Limits to Growth”.

Environmental education is to build a new ecological society.

According to Edgar Morin, it is to build a human community -a planetary community of destiny. Thanks to the culture of interdependence, and of the limits, it can come to light, a culture we can cultivate, breed, and spread. We must be a force of peace and ecological transition drivers.

It needs more competencies, more research, more relationships, and alliances. In sum, more contacts and a stronger WEEC Network.

On Wednesday, we will announce the 12th WEEC in 2024. From now we encourage all of you to consider candidacies for the 13th congress in 2026. The call for bids opens today.

Thanks a lot again. Have lovely days of talk, discoveries, and new friendships. And meet again every day after this 11th congress in Prague, which I wish fruitful and gratifying.

Despite everything.

11WEEC: We started “building bridges”

14 March 2022/in Senza categoria/by weec

The 11th WEEC started today in Prague in the new hybrid guise, linking more than 600 environmental educators, practitioners and experts who have come in person to the Czech Republic and those connected online from all over the world in a single embrace.

In the opening ceremony there were greetings and speeches from Miloš Vystrčil, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, Anna Hubáčková, Minister of the Environment of the Czech Republic , Milena Králíčková, Charles University, Rector, the UN agencies representatives Stefania Giannini, UNESCO and Niclas Svenningsen, UNFCCC, Nouzha Alaoui, Secretary General of the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Environment, the sponsors and, of course, the chairs and organisers of the congress Mario Salomone, WEEC Permanent Secretariat and Jan Činčera, Masaryk University, Local Organizing Team.

«In spite of everything – said Mario Salomone – against all the odds, we are here, in some way, in person or thanks to the Internet. “Thanks” is the first word I want to underline, the second is “In spite of everything, we are here”. After two years of huge pandemic and in times of war near us, with refugees around us. This goal is ever valid, solid, and compelling. This year we celebrate two significant fiftieth anniversaries: the first UN conference on the environment in Stockholm and the MIT report to the Club of Rome: “The Limits to Growth”. Environmental education is to build a new ecological society.
According to Edgar Morin, it is to build a human community -a planetary community of destiny. Thanks to the culture of interdependence, and of the limits, it can come to light, a culture we can cultivate, breed, and spread.
We must be a force of peace and ecological transition drivers. It needs more competences, more research, more relationships, and alliances. In sum, more contacts and a stronger WEEC Network».

Jan Činčera highlighted the good chance and joy of being reunited again on such a occasion of professional growth and networking.

Nouzha Alaoui underlined the role of the countries of the southern hemisphere, still underestimated, but facilitated by the spread of new technologies that shorten distances and make online connections possible.

Anna Hubáčková, Minister of the Environment of the Czech Republic, underlined the importance of the European Green Deal and the challenges to be faced with regard to the delay in communicating climate change. Along the same lines, the rector of the University of Prague reiterated the need for collaboration between schools to strengthen the SDGs. Thus Stefania Giannini, Unesco, drew attention to issues related to youth for climate.

Two interventions focused on the means we already have available for sustainability. Svenningsen said that people are the most important goal, the work that needs to be done is to give the means for understanding the tools we already have. Piccard stressed on education and economics are not in competition, they are two poles that must be in balance. “we already have the tools to build the future we imagined and the solutions are already among us, we have collected over a thousand!”

Centr’ERE and UQAM: various courses for anyone concerned with environmental education

30 November 2021/in Senza categoria/by weec

The University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM) offers professional development courses allowing teachers, teachers as well as any member of the school staff to complete their training on a theme or in a specific area.

DDD 8532 Secondary Environmental Education course

The DDD 8532 Secondary Environmental Education course is aimed at practicing secondary school teachers who are aligned with the reality of their practice.

This is a 3-credit graduate program and the course is taken over two academic sessions.

A first experimental cohort will start in January 2022.

See the detailed course description.

For more information: boelen.virginie@uqam.ca

Consult the information document of the Faculty of Education at UQAM

To register: education.formationcontinue@uqam.ca

Deadline: December 1, 2021

Short Program in Environmental Education

Another project is the Short Program in Environmental Education. This training is intended for anyone concerned with the integration of environmental, education and citizenship issues. It focuses on the development of skills in the design, animation and management of education and training projects relating to the environment in different intervention settings: at school, in the community, in business, in the media, parks, museums, interpretation centers, in the context of international cooperation, etc.

The student is invited to explore the multiple dimensions of an education centered on the relationship with the environment by examining in particular its importance and its meaning for human development and social transformations.

Admission deadline: December 1, 2021

For more information: ere.uqam.ca

Apply for admission