8th World Environmental Education Day 2024

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The 8th World Environmental Education Day, is approaching! It will be celebrated on 14 October,

The World Environmental Education Day was established on October 14th in order to celebrate the first intergovernmental conference on environmental education held in Tbilisi (Georgia) from October 14th to 26th 1977.

On October 14th, 1977, the United Nations Intergovernmental Conference on Environmental Education, organized by UNESCO and UNEP, opened in Tbilisi (Georgia’s capital), and ended on October 26th with a statement of great relevance still today.

Now, for the whole month of October, during the World Environmental Education Day educational institutions, environmental organizations, parks, museums and many other entities dedicate special events to raise public awareness of the importance of environmental education.

Learn more about the World Environmental Education Day: click here!

Are you ready to participate?

Everyone is invited to organise special events to highlight the importance of developing educational actions to build transversal skills; to focus on the complexity of the challenges in a world where everything is interconnected; to affect perception of the human relationship with the environment, to affect attitudes and therefore individual and collective behaviours; to make people protagonists of a change towards more environmentally friendly and equitable societies.

The event is coordinated by the global network of environmental educators, who meet every two years in the sector conferences known as WEEC, World Environmental Education Congress. These congresses offer a unique opportunity for experts to share best practices, discuss emerging challenges and strengthen global collaboration in environmental education. The next WEEC Congress will be held in Perth (Australia) in 2026.

If you want to take an active part in this important event, we invite you to join us in celebrating World Environmental Education Day.

How? You can:

  • Share your initiatives and projects filling the form here
  • Freely download the logo of the initiative
  1. Official logo of World Environmental Education Day 2024
  2. Logo officiel de la Journée mondiale de l’éducation à l’environnement 2024
  3. Logotipo oficial del Día Mundial de la Educación Ambiental 2024
  • Sign the campaign here

Every contribution, big or small, is essential to building a more sustainable world. All initiatives that take place in October can be included in this event. We will promote every event on our media channels
Together, we can make a difference and shape a future where harmony between humanity and nature is guaranteed for generations to come.

Join us in doing your part for a better world!

 

WEEC 2028 – Call for bids

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We are thrilled to announce the opening of the call for hosting the 14th World Environmental Education Congress, set to take place in 2028. This esteemed event will bring together leaders, experts, and professionals from the field of environmental education, offering a unique chance to advance and share environmental practices and knowledge on a global scale.

WEEC 2028 – Call for bids

14th World Environmental Education Congress (14th WEEC) to be held in 2028

The application is only open to public or private organisations involved in environmental education (such as universities, associations, foundations, governmental or local bodies, etc.).
Public or private non-profit organisations concerned with their country’s candidacy as the seat of the 14th WEEC in 2028 must send an Expression of Interest (EOI) and complete the Application Form (LINK).

The candidatures will be assessed primarily according to the following criteria:

  • Demonstrating they have relevant experience in the field of environmental education.
  • Demonstrating they have adequate experience as local, national, regional, and international event organisers.
  • Demonstrating they are skilled in creating networks at different levels and involving various institutions and organisations (national authorities, local institutions, Higher, Secondary and Primary education institutions, parks, museums, NGOs, mass media, etc.) in the organisation and participation in the Congress.
  • Demonstrating their ability to ensure broad international participation at the Congress.
  • Supporting and strengthening the WEEC International Network by allocating a budget to the Permanent Secretariat for the network activities. All proposals that exceed the minimum fee requirement will be positively evaluated.
  • Demonstrating they have adequate congress facilities (e.g. plenary hall to host at least 1,000 participants, approx. ten break-out rooms, offices for PS, exhibition area, catering area, e-poster exhibition area, technical equipment…). The Congress site must be accessible for international Congress attendees, including individuals with disabilities. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) is expected to provide security policies relevant to the Congress site and the participants. Availability of childcare is valued. Preference is given to venues with the best sustainability parameters (green certification, renewable energy, etc.).
  • Demonstrating that they can mobilise the necessary resources at the local and national levels (and possibly at the regional and international levels) to guarantee the Congress’s financial sustainability.
  • The LOC should demonstrate their commitment to containing Congress participation costs and facilitating the participation of people from disadvantaged countries or categories (e.g., young people, students, and accompanying persons) by reducing the fees and other costs of participation and overnight stays. A special participation fee can be considered for attending online. The online fee can be considered at least for the plenary sessions, preferably for the entire Congress. The LOC should also provide special discounts for those who have participated in previous Congresses or are WEEC network members.
  • Engaging to offer sponsorship to an adequate number of delegates from developing countries (if the bidder is in a developed country).
  • Ensuring that the administrative procedures allow the signing of the MoU and the timely meeting of the payment deadlines for the SP.
  • Guaranteeing the quality of the contents and the cultural project of the Congress, in continuity and total agreement with the results and the purpose of the cultural project of the previous Congresses and in close cooperation with the Permanent Secretariat that will co-chair the Congress.
  • Designing the final call for the Congress and the program according to the guidelines and advice of the Secretariat and the International Socio-Scientific Committee established by the Secretariat. The final program must be shared and approved by the SP. The program is typically planned for five days.
  • The LOC should also consider the YEEC (Youth Environmental Education Conference), a special side event involving young people from 15 to young professionals. The YEEC has its committee, programme, rooms, and special discounted rates for participants (free for those under 18).
  • Planning social events like an opening reception and a banquet/networking dinner and planning cultural events and field trips for the Congress participants to learn about local environmental education in the field (the cost of field trips can be included or excluded from the registration fee depending on the overall budget).
  • Guaranteeing cultural diversity and increased participation, also due to using several languages, such as English, French, and Spanish, at least both for the website and during the Congress plenary sessions or more.
  • Having preferably close relationships with the WEEC Congresses and the network in the past.
  • Guaranteeing the ecological consistency of the Congress by taking every measure to minimise the ecological/carbon footprint of the event and assuring its socio and eco-sustainability both as venues and as other aspects (i.e. transports, accommodation, social program outside, and so on).
  • Accepting a draft of a schedule proposed by the Permanent Secretariat.
  • Guaranteeing legacy and positive impact for the destination (providing criteria to measure the sustainability of the Congress), encouraging positive impact from a social, environmental, and cultural point of view, and fostering long-lasting benefits for local communities.
  • Ensuring the social and economic correctness of suppliers (products and producers that respect ethical requirements, workers’ rights, non-discrimination of women, minorities, etc.).
  • Establishing the Congress website (www.weec2028.org) approximately two years before the Congress opening day, according to guidelines provided by the PS. The website should give potential participants all the necessary information and an opportunity to pay for registration online and be linked to the WEEC Network website. The webmaster is expected to work closely with the WEEC Permanent Secretariat. After the Congress, the website will be transferred to the PS who will manage it in the following years.
  • Guaranteeing to produce the Congress proceedings within six months of the end of the Congress. The proceedings will be published online (pdf) on the Congress website and the SP website, with ISBN provided by the Permanent Secretariat.
  • Delivering the final financial report to the PS no later than 120 calendar days after the Congress.

The official announcement of the 14th WEEC will be at the 13th WEEC 2026 in Perth (Australia). Before this date, the winner will be under embargo.

Read the Candidacy Application form here

 

Season of Creation 2024: “To hope and act with Creation”

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The Season of Creation 2024 focuses on the theme, “To hope and act with Creation,” calling people worldwide to unite hope and action for the Earth’s well-being. This year’s symbol, “the firstfruits of hope,” is inspired by the biblical image of creation groaning in childbirth, awaiting renewal. The guiding scripture comes from the Book of Romans (Rom 8:19-25), where St. Paul describes creation’s eager anticipation for the revelation of the children of God.

A groaning earth

The image of creation groaning, like a mother in labor, draws attention to the deep wounds we’ve inflicted on the Earth through our irresponsible actions. The climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and human suffering all point to an imbalanced relationship with nature, which is too often treated as a resource rather than a gift. As St. Francis of Assisi reminds us in his Canticle of the Creatures, the Earth is both our sister and mother. To receive her care, we must care for her in return.

Yet, creation’s cry is not only one of pain, but also of hope. Just as labor pains signal the birth of new life, the Earth’s suffering invites us to act and hope for a better future.

Active hope and the firstfruits of hope

Christian hope is not passive or superficial. It is not merely about optimism or waiting for a utopia but about engaging in concrete action. To “hope” means to act—to transform pain and suffering into visible signs of change. As St. Paul tells us, “hope does not disappoint” (Rom 5:4), but it demands perseverance and patience.

The “firstfruits of hope” emerge when we work together to restore peace and harmony, not just among ourselves but with all creation. Actions like supporting the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty are tangible examples of hope coming to life. This treaty is a critical step toward a sustainable future and a real response to the ecological crisis.

The urgency of change

We are living in a time of urgency. Ecological conversion—a profound transformation of heart and mind—is difficult but unavoidable. Collective efforts toward sustainability and environmental justice are crucial signs of hope. Hope and action are inseparable; action springs from hope, and hope thrives through action.

The voices of the Earth and the poor must be heard. Communities displaced by climate change, indigenous populations, endangered species, and ecosystems at risk—all of these call us to a renewed respect for creation. Ecological justice is an essential part of our faith.

A call to action

The Season of Creation 2024 invites us to both reflect and act. It urges us to see creation as a part of God’s revelation, to respond to its groans with sustainable, concrete actions, and to embrace our responsibility as stewards of the Earth. Hope and action must move together. While we hope for a better world, we must act to make it a reality. Our actions—no matter how small—are the firstfruits of a greater hope, paving the way for a more just and sustainable future for all creation.

Discover more and share your Season of Creation activity here: https://seasonofcreation.org/

The partners participating in this initiative include: Anglican Communion Environmental Network, Integral human development, Dicasterium pro communicatione, A Rocha, Actalliance, European Christian Environmental Network, Lausanne/WEA Creation Care Network, Movimento Laudato Si’, The Lutheran World Federation, World Communion of Reformed Churches, World Council of Churches, The middle east council of churches, World methodist council, Centrumjp2, Comunidad de Vida Cristiana,  Comisión Diocesana de Ecología Integral, Guías Argentinas Católicas, Creation Justice Ministries, Cebi, Acción Católica Argentina, Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII, Catolicos en red, Arquidiocese de Braga, Vatican news, Radio vaticana, Alfa&Omega, Aica, Aleteia, Exaudi, L’osservatore romano, The pope video, Pray as you go, Religion digital

WEEC Network has taken part in the 𝑬𝑺𝑫 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒖𝒎 Go Green, a comprehensive event that included the Med-9 and UNECE that was held in Limassol, Republic of Cyprus.

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WEEC Network made a contribution to the Med-9 High-Level Forum on Education for Sustainable Development and Green Transition in the Mediterranean Region during the session ‘The Twin Transition: Digital and Green Sustainable Learning ‘. WEEC Network’s representative, Dr. Mariaclaudia Cusumano, presented the contribution ‘Cultures of Sustainability behind Spotlight.’ This presentation sheds light on the role of cultures in promoting sustainability for a sustainable future.

During the session, policies and strategies for integrating green and digital as sustainable learning have been discussed.

The session was not just a platform for the exchange of ideas but also a catalyst for enhancing cooperation and networking.

As WEEC Network, we presented what has been done both in Italy and at the International level; we focused on the Italian Education Global Citizen as a strategy to promote sustainable development through ESD in lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, and promotion of a peaceful and nonviolent Education as the appreciation of the diversity of culture. We presented the new Plan School- Regeneration, which aims to accompany the Ecological and Social Transition by facilitating activities of EE.

We stressed that numerous barriers still remain in the Italian Education System as many issues are not addressed:

  • Climate change.
  • Understanding of the complexity and interdependence of global challenges.
  • Adoption of awareness, sustainable choice in consumption, in nutrition model, as is an active lifestyle to promote youth health.
  • Understanding of Planetary limits, countering the culture of overconsumption.
  • Educating for critical thinking.

During our speech, we also stressed mainstream communication, particularly regarding fake news and miscommunication, an issue that has a devastating impact on the new generations throughout the toxicity of communication, especially in the context of social media.

It was also a great occasion to shed light on some best practices that are impacting Italy, such as ours.

  • Italian Universities have launched an initiative to promote Sustainable Development; academic Courses are directly linked to one or more of the SDGs for their promotion;
  • Italian Sustainable University Network, RUS has developed lesson zero, a mini course of providing students educational tools for sustainability literacy;
  • National Committee for for Sustainable Development for Agenda 2030, under the auspices of UNESCO, every November the Committee promotes a campaign for the week of ESD;
  • WEEC Italia has training teacher through Summer School,
  • Last but not least YEEC that we are building up for the next World Environmental Education Congress that will be held which will be held in 2026 in Australia as a platform to connect youth that are sharing similar sensibility of Sustainability at the global level.

The Med-9 Ministerial Summit for Education for Sustainable Development and Green Transition in the Mediterranean Region ended with a Non-Official Paper approved by high officials and experts of the Mediterranean countries, NGOs, Academia, and other stakeholders and facilitated by Prof. Michael Scoullos of the Union for the Mediterranean and and Ms. Aravella Zachariou, Head of the Unit of EESD of Cyprus to face the complex and serious challenges to face The global triple crisis which is particularly visible in the Mediterranean, the South and Eastern of Europe. It has merged the need to make a prominent effort to implement the Action Plan Towards 2030 of the Mediterranean Strategy on ESD. This includes cross-cutting themes among environmental issues, cultural, socioeconomic, democratization, gender, and youth, as well as peace, security, and human rights to ensure a sustainable future for all.

https://esdforumcyprus2024.com

Inaugural Speaking 4 the Planet competition ignites environmental passion in Africa

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Africa witnessed a groundbreaking event as the inaugural Speaking 4 the Planet competition took center stage, hosted by St Mark’s College, Namagoma.

This momentous occasion marked a pivotal step in igniting environmental consciousness across the continent.

The competition, held under the theme “Use your philosophy as a club to address environmental challenges,” brought together eleven clubs, each presenting a compelling array of speeches, creative arts, and visual representations advocating for environmental preservation.

 

Event highlights:

Under the meticulous guidance of judges Jackie, John Paul, and Arnold, participants showcased their talents across three categories:

  1. Speech: Students delivered impassioned addresses, both junior and senior, highlighting the urgency of environmental conservation within a strict four-minute timeframe.
  2. Creative Arts: Clubs exhibited their creativity through dance, skits, or poetry, each performance limited to four minutes.
  3. Art Piece: A visually captivating aspect where participants articulated the essence of their artwork within a concise one-minute presentation.

Inspiration and dedication:

Leading the charge in organizing this transformative event was Bruno Muyunga, an environmental activist and IT specialist at St Mark’s College, Namagoma. Muyunga’s unwavering commitment stemmed from a deep-seated passion for protecting the environment, fueled by his childhood experiences of witnessing the natural world.

Attending the 12th World Environmental Education Congress in Abu Dhabi served as a catalyst for Muyunga, reinforcing the imperative for environmental education and awareness. Inspired by the global discourse on sustainability, he resolved to spearhead initiatives aimed at nurturing a generation equipped to safeguard the planet.

Impact and future prospects

The Speaking 4 the Planet competition transcended mere rhetoric, serving as a catalyst for tangible action and advocacy. By engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering dialogue on environmental stewardship, the event illuminated the path towards a more sustainable future.

As the winner, the Science Club emerged triumphant, symbolizing a collective commitment to environmental preservation.

Their prize, a symbolic goat, epitomized the profound connection between humanity and nature, underscoring the responsibility entrusted upon future generations.

Looking ahead, St Mark’s College, Namagoma, sets the stage for the next chapter in Africa’s environmental journey, with plans to host future iterations of the Speaking 4 the Planet competition. Through collective endeavor and unwavering determination, the seeds of change sown today promise a greener, more resilient tomorrow.

Acknowledgments

The success of the Speaking 4 the Planet competition would not have been possible without the invaluable support of collaborating partners, including the Sutherland Shire Environment Centre, AAEE, Paddy Pallin, and the WEEC Secretariat. Their unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy exemplifies the spirit of collective action and solidarity in safeguarding our planet.

As the curtains close on this inaugural event, Africa stands poised on the precipice of a new environmental awakening. The journey towards sustainability beckons, with each step forward guided by the shared vision of a harmonious coexistence between humanity and the natural world.

WEEC Network Joins Campaign to Protect Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment

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We are pleased to announce that WEEC Network has officially joined the collective effort to advocate for the protection of the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment across Europe.

In response to ongoing environmental challenges and the escalating triple planetary crisis, civil society organizations and social movements from various sectors are uniting to call upon the Member States of the Council of Europe to recognize and safeguard this fundamental human right through an additional protocol to the European Convention on Human Rights.

The importance of this initiative has already been recognized by international bodies such as the UN Human Rights Council and the UN General Assembly, as well as by over 160 countries worldwide. However, the Council of Europe, representing 46 Member States and over 700 million citizens, has yet to officially acknowledge this right within its legal framework.

By endorsing this campaign, WEEC Network joins dozens of organizations across Europe in urging European governments to take concrete steps to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of current and future generations.

The lack of adequate protection of the right to a healthy environment under the European Human Rights framework remains a pressing issue, particularly considering the significant public health impacts of air pollution and the disproportionate effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.

The proposed additional protocol would not only strengthen existing legal frameworks but also empower the European Court of Human Rights to safeguard environmental rights effectively. Furthermore, it would signal Europe’s commitment to addressing the environmental crisis and providing its citizens with enforceable environmental protections.

MECCE Project announces third call for proposals for quality climate change communication and education case studies

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The Monitoring and Evaluating Climate Communication and Education (MECCE) Project, a collaborative effort among over 100 prominent scholars and agencies, has unveiled its third funded case studies call for proposals. With an esteemed Advisory Committee including the likes of the IPCC, UNESCO, UNFCCC, and UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report, MECCE aims to deepen the understanding of quality Climate Change Communication and Education (CCE) through insightful case studies.

Researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders are invited to submit their proposals until March 25th, 2024. The project seeks to fund a minimum of 10 case study research projects, offering up to CAD $10,000 per project. While all proposals will be given due consideration, this year MECCE is particularly interested in initiatives from Latin America and Eastern Europe. They are also keen on CCE initiatives focusing on public participation, public access to climate change information, and educational sectors such as pre-primary, primary, and higher education.

What is MECCE looking for?

MECCE is seeking case study proposals that delve into established quality CCE initiatives. The aim is to better understand how these initiatives contribute to the landscape of climate change education. Projects should offer clear research questions, methods, and approaches, primarily utilizing qualitative research methods.

Benefits of participation and eligibility

Participating in these case studies offers a range of benefits:

  • Receive funding: Up to $10,000 CAD to conduct in-depth research on a quality CCE initiative.
  • Contribute to knowledge: Help advance the understanding of quality CCE and ways to enhance CCE initiatives globally.
  • Global networking: Connect with a diverse network of CCE researchers and practitioners.
  • Showcase work: Display innovative CCE efforts through international platforms, including the MECCE Project’s data platform and digital library.
  • Optional activities: Opportunities for joint publications, blog posts, and cross-case study analyses.

Deliverables

Successful applicants will be expected to:

  • Participate in calls with the MECCE Project Office for updates and support.
  • Submit a comprehensive final report detailing the case study and its findings.
  • Provide a multimedia package showcasing the CCE initiative (e.g., photos, videos).
  • Publish findings in academic or professional publications, and present results to target audiences.

Application process and deadlines

Proposals should be submitted through the application portal by the deadline of March 25, 2024, at 11:59 pm EST.

For more information on the MECCE Project and to view previously funded case studies, visit mecce.ca. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the advancement of Climate Change Communication and Education on a global scale!

Empowering Uganda’s youth: Muyunga Bruno’s quest to Speaking 4 the Planet

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In the heart of Uganda, Muyunga Bruno, an IT Officer, Environmental Activist, and student mentor at St. Mark’s College Namagoma, is passionately leading a movement to safeguard the natural world for future generations.

Bruno’s love for preserving the environment traces back to his childhood, surrounded by Uganda’s stunning landscapes. However, he’s witnessed a troubling trend of environmental decline over the years. “Gone are the days when you could hear frogs in the evening,” he mourns, pointing to the loss of once-vibrant habitats due to human activities.

Recently returning from the 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) in Abu Dhabi, Bruno is reinvigorated. “Numerous factors, especially climate change, have profoundly impacted our environment,” he observes, stressing the urgent need for education and action.

At the WEEC, Bruno noted a critical knowledge gap, especially among younger community members. “Children and youths must learn the importance of preserving our environment,” he insists, noting the lack of guidance from previous generations on conservation efforts.

With this insight, Bruno is launching the “Speaking 4 the Planet” Environmental Speaking Competition at St. Mark’s College Namagoma. Set for April 13, 2024, the event aims to empower students to tackle environmental challenges using their voices and beliefs. It will involve various school clubs, including debate, wildlife, Red Cross, Interact, Scripture Union, mathematics, ICT, entrepreneurship, Swahili (East African Community), and cultural clubs.

Inspired by Mr. Phil Smith, who leads “Speaking 4 the Planet,” Bruno envisions expanding this initiative beyond his school. “I don’t plan to limit this to just our competition,” he shares, detailing ambitions to reach more schools, communities and neighboring countries.

Bruno dreams of a future where the younger generation is not only knowledgeable but also passionate about conserving and protecting the natural environment. “We must raise a generation capable of advocating for the planet,” he stresses.

In his mission to effect change, Bruno humbly seeks support. “This email is a humble request for any assistance—financial, advisory, or knowledge-based,” he appeals, hopeful for partnerships and resources to advance his cause.

As Uganda’s landscape faces mounting challenges from human impact, voices like Muyunga Bruno’s are crucial in paving the way for a sustainable future. Through initiatives such as the “Speaking 4 the Planet” competition, he aims to inspire, educate, and ignite a fervor for environmental conservation among Uganda’s youth.

For those interested in supporting Bruno’s cause or learning more about the “Speaking 4 the Planet” competition, inquiries are welcome at his email (muyungabruno@gmail.com). Together, we can advocate for the planet and cultivate a brighter, greener tomorrow for all.

Perth selected as host for 13th World environmental education congress (WEEC) in 2026

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The World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) Permanent Secretariat and the Australian Association of Environmental Education (AAEE) announced Perth as host for the 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) in 2026.

Following the resounding success of the 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) held in Abu Dhabi in January and February 2024, the WEEC Permanent Secretariat takes great pride in announcing that Wadjuk Noongar Country – Perth, Western Australia – has been selected as the host city for the 13th WEEC in 2026.

The WEEC Permanent Secretariat will partner with the Australian Association of Environmental Education (AAEE) to bring this premier international congress dedicated to the progression of environmental education and the advancement of education for sustainability worldwide.

“After twelve world congresses, the environmental education community starts a journey towards new goals from Australia”, said Mario Salomone, WEEC Secretary-General. “The environmental approach to the knowledge is a key for a paradigm shift and must be more and more at the centre of the formal and non-formal education. The global project on learning implemented in close collaboration with the Club of Rome will bring to the congress in Perth updated data, inspiring thoughts, and new mindfulness”.

The WEEC serves as a platform for global dialogue, learning, and exchanging ideas on environmental education programs. “The work we are doing in Australasia on environmental education and education for sustainability positions us as a leading destination,” said Dr Lisa Siegel, President of AAEE. “We welcome environmental educators locally and from around the world to attend WEEC 2026 to benefit from international discourse and showcasing best practices.”

AAEE Vice Presidents Dr Jennifer Pearson and Mr Jason Pitman, both in Western Australia, will co-chair the organising committee for the 13th WEEC. “We are thrilled to showcase Western Australia’s rich environmental and cultural heritage to delegates from around the world,” said Dr Pearson. “From sustainable initiatives in early learning to the growing impact of place-based education efforts, the 13th WEEC presents a unique opportunity to share our knowledge and learn from our global counterparts.”

“The 13th WEEC in 2026 will facilitate stronger connections between countries in the Oceania region and beyond,” added Mr Pitman. “By sharing our responses to the climate crisis and exchanging international perspectives on living more sustainably, we aim to foster collaboration and galvanise collective action in the global community.”

 

Information and updates

For further information and updates on the 13th WEEC 2026, please visit:

www.weecnetwork.org or www.aaee.org.au

Alternatively, please get in touch with the Local Organising Committee via:

Dr Jennifer Pearson, Co-chair, jopearson189@gmail.com

Mr Jason Pitman, Co-Chair, jason.j.pitman@gmail.com

And with the international Permanent Secretariat:

secretariat@weecnetwork.org

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

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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.

International Secretariat

Via del Carmine, 15
10122 Torino – Italy
tel.+39 0114366522
secretariat@weecnetwork.org

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