Tag Archive for: environmental education

The Belgrade Charter 50 Years Later: A Compass For Environmental Education

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In 1975, as the world began to confront the early signs of an ecological crisis, an event took place in Belgrade that would leave a lasting mark on the history of education. Ninety-six experts from sixty countries came together to define a new concept: environmental education. The outcome was the Belgrade Charter — a document that, for the first time, clearly and systematically outlined the goals, methods, and principles of education aimed at addressing the environmental challenges of both the present and the future.

Fifty years later, the Charter remains a key point of reference for those engaged in education, environmental issues, and active citizenship. But what exactly did this document propose? And why does it still matter today?

 

Education That Starts With The Environment (And Reaches People)

The Belgrade Charter begins with a simple yet revolutionary idea: the environment is not just nature — it’s the sum of all the conditions in which we live, including ecological, economic, social, and cultural dimensions.

Educating about the environment, then, means helping people understand the complexity of the world, recognize their role within an interconnected system, and act accordingly.

According to the Charter, the goal of environmental education is to foster informed and engaged citizens — people who can identify environmental problems, understand their causes and impacts, and take action, both individually and collectively, to prevent or solve them.

Education, in this vision, goes far beyond transmitting knowledge. It involves values, emotions, motivations, and behaviour.

To achieve this, the Charter outlines six key objectives:

  1. Awareness – developing a broad understanding of the environment and its most pressing issues.
  2. Knowledge – acquiring scientific and cultural insights into environmental challenges.
  3. Attitudes – nurturing values and sensitivity toward the protection of nature and society.
  4. Skills – learning to solve problems in practical, creative ways.
  5. Evaluation – developing critical thinking and analytical abilities.
  6. Participation – feeling empowered to take part in change, both in daily life and within one’s community.

This approach was remarkably forward-thinking for its time. The idea that education and the environment are deeply connected — and that education can help transform society — anticipated by decades the very issues that today are at the heart of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda.

 

A Legacy That Lives On

The Belgrade Charter had a profound impact on the landmark Tbilisi Conference of 1977, which confirmed and expanded the core principles of environmental education. Since then, the idea that education can drive environmental and social change has inspired public policies, school programs, local initiatives, and global awareness campaigns.

Education for sustainable development, for instance, builds on the original concept of environmental education, extending its scope to include issues like social equity, the solidarity economy, and climate justice. Yet the founding values of the Belgrade Charter remain at its core: interdisciplinarity, participation, lifelong learning, and the vital connection between knowledge and action are still central to this broader educational vision.

This is not about nostalgia. The Charter is still relevant today because it continues to speak to us. In the face of global challenges such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and social inequality, we need an education that nurtures critical thinking and hope, awareness and responsibility.

 

A Guide For The Future

So, what lesson can we take from the Belgrade Charter? That educating means creating meaning — and that meaning is something we build together: in schools, families, communities, and institutions. It also means recognizing that every person, at every stage of life, can play a role. Environmental education isn’t just for children or students; it’s a cultural practice that involves all of society. And for that reason, it must be accessible, inclusive, and rooted in dialogue.

In a fast-changing world where eco-anxiety is on the rise, we need education that not only raises the alarm but also nurtures the capacity to imagine and build alternatives. In this sense, the Belgrade Charter offers us a compass — not a rigid set of rules, but a guide to help us stay on course.

Fifty years ago, the Belgrade Charter gave voice to a powerful hope: that through education, we can truly build a more just, sustainable, and compassionate future. That hope is still alive — within us and around us. It’s up to us to keep it alive, to bring it into schools, cities, projects, and everyday conversations. Because educating about the environment always means educating about life.

 

Essential bibliography

  • Unesco-Unep (1975), Belgrade Charter. A global framework for environmental education. Paris: Unesco. Available at https://www.mase.gov.it/portale/documents/d/guest/belgrado-pdf.
  • Palmer, J. (1998), Environmental Education in the 21st Century: Theory, Practice, Progress and Promise, Routledge.
  • Carson, R. (1962), Silent Spring, Boston, Houghton Mifflin.

Discover the meaning of Gondwana: the name of the 13th WEEC Congress

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Gondwana – Reconnecting Resilient Cultures: a unifying theme for the 13th World Environmental Education Congress

The 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) in Australia embraces the powerful and unifying theme of Gondwana, highlighting deep geological, ecological, and cultural interconnections across continents. This concept not only bridges ancient histories but also fosters dialogue on environmental education and sustainability in a globally interconnected world.

A shared heritage across continents

Gondwana once united Africa, Antarctica, Arabia, Australia, India, Madagascar, South America, and Zealandia, along with their surrounding oceans and seas. Today, this shared geological history serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections among these regions, extending beyond physical landscapes to the cultural and ecological systems that have thrived for millennia.
The theme is strongly supported by Whadjuk Noongar stakeholders, the traditional custodians of the land around Perth, Western Australia. Their endorsement underlines the significance of Indigenous perspectives in fostering environmental awareness and resilience.

Resilient cultures and traditional knowledge

The phrase “Resilient Cultures” acknowledges and respects the enduring legacies of First Nations peoples across the Southern Hemisphere and beyond. Gondwana, originally a Sanskrit term—where “Gond” refers to a Dravidian ethnic group and “vana” means forest—illustrates the longstanding relationship between people and nature. The Whadjuk Noongar people have expressed strong support for this terminology, recognizing the global importance of language preservation and Indigenous knowledge.
By reconnecting ancient cultures and ecosystems, the Congress aims to emphasize the importance of integrating Indigenous wisdom with contemporary environmental science. This approach fosters a more holistic understanding of sustainability and aligns with WEEC’s goal of promoting interdisciplinary knowledge and collaboration.

Learning from the past to shape the future

Gondwana serves as an inspiration for addressing modern environmental challenges by revisiting ancient wisdom and reinterpreting it in contemporary contexts. This philosophy resonates with Indigenous communities who advocate for drawing upon historical knowledge systems to develop sustainable solutions for the future.
The WEEC recognizes that the legacy of Gondwana underscores the necessity for global cooperation. By fostering eco-citizenship, multicultural respect, and a commitment to biodiversity conservation, the Congress aims to strengthen environmental education as a tool for promoting peace and sustainability worldwide.
As delegates from around the world gather to discuss pressing environmental concerns, Gondwana stands as a symbol of unity—reminding us that the challenges we face today can be better understood and tackled through collective efforts and a renewed appreciation for ancient, resilient cultures.

We remind you that the 13th WEEC Congress will take place from September 21 to 25, 2026, in Perth, Australia. Visit the website weec2026.org and subscribe to the newsletter to stay updated. Join our network for a more sustainable future and a global connection among experts and enthusiasts in the field.

13th WEEC in Perth: call to hope and action

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From September 21 to 25, 2026, the city of Perth, Australia, will host the 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC), a global event that brings together experts, educators, activists, and institutions from across the globe. This congress marks a pivotal moment to address pressing environmental challenges and foster transformative education that meets the urgent needs of our time. Mario Salomone, Secretary-General of WEEC, delivers a clear message in his official invitation: “Education is the most powerful tool to change the world in the way we envision.” With this call, Salomone encourages everyone to participate in an event that promises opportunities for dialogue, collective growth, and personal development.

WEEC 2026: toward a sustainable future for all

In his invitation, Salomone reflects: “Across the world, billions dream of peace, a secure and serene life, and the ability to fulfill fundamental needs such as health, education, cultural enrichment, protection from threats to human life, access to quality food, and living in welcoming, biodiverse environments.”

This shared vision lies at the heart of WEEC, a congress aimed at addressing the critical needs of a world increasingly fragile and vulnerable to growing social and environmental inequalities.

With heightened awareness of climate change and environmental crises, the congress seeks to promote education that goes beyond information-sharing to inspire profound societal and individual change. Salomone highlights the reality faced globally: “In both developed and disadvantaged countries, billions experience climate upheavals, alternating between extremes—floods and droughts, heatwaves and cold spells.”

The 13th WEEC will serve as a key platform to explore how education can become an essential ally in tackling these global challenges.

Environmental education: an anchor of hope

“Change is in our hands,” says Salomone, emphasizing the pivotal role of environmental education, which began to take shape in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Since then, it has played a critical role in guiding societies toward greater environmental responsibility, equipping generations with the skills and awareness needed to address future challenges.

Reflecting on the transformative power of education, Salomone explains: “Environmental education serves billions worldwide—those who live, work, study, and dream. It nurtures generations of determined dreamers, realists, and builders of desirable, achievable futures.”

The Perth congress aligns with this vision of hope and concrete action. Education, Salomone asserts, is not merely a tool to impart knowledge but an instrument of empowerment and change.

Addressing the challenge of educational access

Salomone also sheds light on a critical global issue: “Around the world, tens of thousands of universities and millions of primary and secondary school teachers are working to quench the thirst for learning among youth and adults. Yet hundreds of millions lack access to education or cannot benefit from adequate learning opportunities.”

The disparity in access to education remains one of the greatest challenges, particularly in an era defined by rapid technological and climatic changes. For education to be a universal right, accessible to all, we must ensure that every individual becomes an active participant in society and the environment.

In this context, Salomone underscores: “Learning is fundamental for becoming active agents in an era of increasingly rapid change.” The 13th WEEC seeks to tackle this challenge by exploring innovative solutions to enhance access to quality education, with a focus on sustainability and social equity.

A Congress for dialogue, inspiration, and growth

The WEEC is not merely an academic gathering; it is an opportunity for dialogue and exchange among diverse stakeholders dedicated to promoting education for sustainability. Salomone extends an open invitation: “To people and institutions alike, the World Congress will be a wonderful opportunity for exchange, inspiration, and encouragement, as well as personal and collective growth.”

This global dialogue aims to involve everyone, from experts and researchers to ordinary citizens, fostering a true transformation on a global scale. The congress will go beyond theoretical discussions to address practical needs and outline actionable steps for sustainable education and action. As Salomone puts it, the congress will provide “a chance to reflect on the state and evolution of learning required in today’s world.”

Each discussion, workshop, and presentation will contribute to building a new educational paradigm capable of addressing contemporary challenges.

“No Limits to Hope”: a vision for the future

A cornerstone of the 13th WEEC will be the presentation of the report “No Limits to Hope”, developed in collaboration with The Fifth Element and the Club of Rome. This report explores the educational changes needed to tackle global environmental challenges and foster boundless hope for the planet’s future.

“The hope that drives us knows no bounds,” encapsulates the essence of this document, which will take center stage at the Perth congress. Salomone invites everyone to commit to daily efforts toward “transformative learning” and to join in Australia to evaluate progress and set new goals: “Let’s work every day on transformative learning and meet in Australia to take stock,” he states.

Learn more: An international research project for a new educational paradigm: “No Limits to Hope”

13th World Environmental Education Congress: an unmissable event

The 13th World Environmental Education Congress is shaping up to be one of the most significant opportunities for reflection and commitment to the future of our planet. Salomone concludes his message with a heartfelt invitation to stay connected and prepare for a meeting that promises to pave the way for a fairer, more sustainable future for all: “See you soon. In the meantime, let’s stay in touch!”

For updates and to participate in this extraordinary event, visit the official website of the 13th World Environmental Education Congress: www.weec2026.org.

Step into the future of environmental education: WEEC 2026 website is now online!

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Join the global movement for a sustainable future! Explore the WEEC 2026 official website at https://www.weec2026.org

The official website for the 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC 2026) is now online, welcoming participants from around the globe to Perth, Australia, from September 21 to 25, 2026. This landmark event offers educators, researchers, and sustainability professionals an unparalleled platform to connect, collaborate, and drive transformative change for a greener future.

A global gathering for the planet’s future

Under the central theme, “Environmental education as a tool for change,” WEEC 2026 will spotlight sustainability and global efforts to tackle climate and environmental challenges. The congress is designed as a dynamic hub for exchanging ideas, sharing solutions, and fostering international collaboration in environmental conservation.

A diverse and engaging program

The event will feature a rich agenda of activities, including:

  • Plenary sessions with leading global experts.
  • Interactive workshops designed to inspire practical solutions.
  • Research presentations showcasing the latest innovations.
  • Cultural activities celebrating local sustainability practices.

Special emphasis will be placed on youth-focused initiatives, recognizing the critical role of future generations in shaping sustainable practices.

Why attend WEEC 2026?

By joining WEEC 2026, participants will gain:

  • Innovative insights into the latest trends in environmental education.
  • Networking opportunities with global experts and professionals.
  • Tools for action to implement sustainability-focused strategies in their own communities.

Attendees are encouraged to present research and projects that can influence the future of environmental education, with practical resources provided to ensure real-world application.

Sustainability at the core

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of WEEC 2026. The congress is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint by promoting waste reduction, eco-friendly practices, and sustainable operations. Hosting the event in Perth highlights the city’s exemplary commitment to environmental sustainability.

The website includes essential travel and logistics details, such as:

  • Eco-friendly accommodation options.
  • Recommendations for sustainable activities during your stay.

Be part of the change

The WEEC 2026 website is your gateway to this transformative global event. With opportunities for deep discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking, the congress is an unmissable occasion for anyone passionate about education and sustainability.

Don’t miss your chance to make a difference! Visit the official WEEC 2026 website at https://www.weec2026.org to learn more and secure your spot today.

The organizers of WEEC 2026 warmly invite participants worldwide to join this inspiring initiative and contribute to advancing environmental education as a powerful tool for change.

VIII Ibero-American Congress on Environmental Education: “Cultures and territories at peace with nature”

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From October 16 to 18, 2024, Santiago de Cali, Colombia, hosted the VIII Ibero-American Congress on Environmental Education, a landmark event that brought together educators, policymakers, researchers, and community leaders from across the Ibero-American region. Under the theme “Cultures and territories at peace with nature” the congress reaffirmed its role as the most significant platform for advancing environmental education in the region.

Building on the legacy of seven previous editions held across Latin America since 1992, the congress showcased the strength of environmental education as a field of knowledge and practice. Participants revisited critical achievements, including advances in epistemology, policy frameworks, institutionalization, professionalization, and innovative pedagogies.

This year’s congress stood out for its focus on integrating diverse cultural and ecological perspectives, emphasizing the transformative power of education to address global environmental challenges and foster sustainability.

The event achieved several significant milestones, particularly in fostering environmental citizenship by emphasizing the role of education in developing a sense of responsibility, critical thinking, and proactive engagement among individuals. It also advanced policy integration by presenting concrete recommendations to embed environmental education into both national and international action plans, aligning them more closely with public policies. Furthermore, the congress provided a dynamic space for collaborative knowledge sharing, bringing together scientific, traditional, and community-based perspectives to address the complexities of environmental challenges.

The congress was also a showcase for sustainable event practices. Efforts included reducing waste, offsetting carbon emissions, and promoting local products and the circular economy. Participants actively engaged in social responsibility initiatives, leaving a positive impact on local communities in Cali. The congress led to several notable outcomes, including a strengthened commitment to fostering networks and collaborations throughout the Ibero-American region. It also resulted in the adoption of recommendations aimed at enhancing the role of environmental education within global environmental governance frameworks. Additionally, the event culminated in the creation of an open-access final report, which documented best practices, lessons learned, and strategic pathways for the future advancement of environmental education.

. By hosting the congress in Colombia, a megadiverse country, participants gained valuable insights into the current environmental challenges and conflicts faced by regions rich in biodiversity. The contributions from the congress served as critical inputs for discussions at COP16 on Biodiversity, ensuring that the role of environmental education was prominently addressed in global conservation strategies. The VIII Ibero-American Congress on Environmental Education left an indelible mark on the region’s approach to sustainability, equity, and peace. By bringing together diverse voices and championing a holistic view of environmental education, the event set the stage for meaningful action to address the intertwined crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, and social inequality.

Declaratoria de Lima

Celebrating World Environmental Education Day 2024: global experiences and activities

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On October 14th, 2024, the 8th World Environmental Education Day was celebrated. This date marks the anniversary of the 1977 UN Conference in Tbilisi, Georgia, where it was unanimously agreed that environmental education plays a vital role in safeguarding and enhancing the global environment. 47 years later, the World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) remains dedicated to promoting environmental education as a key pathway toward building sustainable societies.

Since the establishment of World EE Day, WEEC has encouraged organizations worldwide to initiate activities and projects focused on environmental education throughout October. From festivals and conferences to workshops and academic research projects, we received numerous submissions through our online platform highlighting various World Environmental Education Day 2024 initiatives.

This final report highlights some outstanding and impactful projects from across the globe for this year’s World EE Day.

The project Food Waste Valorization for Nutritious Livestock Feeds Production aims to transform food waste into safe and nutritious feeds for livestock, promoting food security, sustainable livelihoods, job creation, and environmental conservation. In Uganda, where 16.4 million people face food insecurity, significant amounts of food waste are generated daily in urban areas, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. Currently, food waste is fed directly to animals, posing health risks. This project uses insect-based farming to process food waste into high-protein feeds and bio-fertilizers. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) provide a nutritious alternative to costly traditional protein sources like fish and soybean meal, thus lowering livestock feed costs. By demonstrating technical and business models at Mukono Green Valley Innovation Hub, the project will empower youth to engage in insect farming, livestock management, and organic farming, ultimately fostering economic opportunities and improving food security.

The Digital Platform for Environmental Citizen Science is designed to empower individuals worldwide to actively contribute to environmental research and conservation. Through a user-friendly interface, participants can upload observations, measurements, and photos related to environmental factors like air quality, water pollution, biodiversity, and climate change. Guided projects within the platform support users in gathering targeted data to address urgent environmental challenges, while real-time data visualization through interactive maps and charts allows users to observe trends and patterns. Educational resources help participants deepen their understanding of environmental science and the value of citizen-driven research. By engaging people in meaningful data collection and analysis, the platform raises awareness, generates valuable data to complement scientific research, and empowers users to make a positive impact on their local environments. Partnerships with academic institutions, government agencies, and NGOs are envisioned to enhance project development, data analysis, and outreach, creating a collaborative network of environmental advocates.

ModelCOP is an innovative educational platform that immerses middle and high school students in global climate negotiations, helping them develop essential skills and values for environmental leadership. Through realistic simulations of international climate forums, students role-play as diplomats and climate experts, gaining insights into global climate challenges and collaborative solutions. The program combines online and in-person sessions for accessibility and engagement, targeting rapid growth across high-youth regions like the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. With strategic partnerships, ModelCOP aims to reach over 5 million students in three years, creating a global network of educators, experts, and policymakers to support its mission.

The Bogotá Schools Environmental Summit is an initiative launched by students from Los Cerros Gymnasium to unite the educational community in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. The summit aims to educate and empower students to take action against climate change through conferences, project fairs, and workshops. The first edition in 2023 focused on establishing collaborative goals for environmental restoration, attracting over 60 participants from 15 institutions. The second edition in May 2024, held during an environmental crisis, engaged more than 120 students and teachers from 32 schools, featuring discussions on climate change challenges and showcasing student-led environmental initiatives. This summit not only inspires pride in students’ achievements but also fosters a collective commitment to combating climate change. By facilitating idea exchange and collaboration, the summit promotes continuous engagement in environmental projects and aims to establish a regional and global network for environmental education. Future editions will further enhance visibility for climate issues and strengthen partnerships with educational and environmental organizations.

Little Green Hero (LGH) is an innovative mobile and web application aimed at fostering environmental awareness among children aged toddlers to 8 years. Utilizing artificial intelligence, LGH creates an engaging and adaptive learning environment that introduces complex environmental issues in a way that is accessible and non-intimidating for young learners. The preliminary model has shown effectiveness in captivating children’s interest and promoting early environmental consciousness, highlighting AI’s potential to transform educational experiences in essential fields like environmental education.

Exploring the Oceans: Marine Education for Schoolchildren is an educational initiative aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of marine ecosystems through interactive workshops integrated into the school curriculum. The project involves three themed workshops tailored to each grade level, promoting hands-on learning through both outdoor activities and in-class practical sessions. The primary goal is to inspire curiosity about the oceans and foster environmental responsibility among students. Younger students will focus on basic marine life concepts, while middle and upper grades will delve into ecosystems, human impacts, and conservation strategies. Practical experiences include field trips to coastal areas, where students can observe marine ecosystems, engage in water testing, and participate in beach clean-ups. This program encourages active participation, enhancing knowledge retention and cultivating a conservation mindset. By connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences, “Exploring the Oceans” empowers students to become future stewards of the environment, deepening their appreciation for marine life and its challenges.

The Green Student Program is an initiative aimed at promoting environmental awareness and action among high school students. It empowers over 120 participants from 20 schools to become green changemakers by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to tackle environmental issues in their communities. Through workshops and fellowships, the program emphasizes design-thinking strategies for developing solutions, career preparation for environmental pathways, and launching the first cohort of Green Student Fellows. Selected fellows will receive mentorship, sponsorship for a Climate Course, and support for their own student-led campaigns addressing local environmental challenges. The program also fosters ongoing opportunities through partnerships, bridging the gap between inspiration and actionable environmental education.

The Art of Climate Change Education project aims to enhance climate education for teachers in England and Kenya through the integration of art and artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative seeks to empower educators to become confident climate allies, capable of influencing their students and communities on climate action. Harwood Education, an English teacher training organisation, will lead the development of an AI-inspired visual art project and a Carbon Footprint Buster Challenge, providing educational materials to Kenyan schools in collaboration with People to People International, Kenya. Kenyan instructors will utilize the book Creating A Masterpiece: The Arts and Climate Change Conflict By Graydon to inspire students and raise awareness about climate change through artistic expression. Additionally, students will receive Life on Planet Earth: My Story, by artist Graydon, an activity book featuring art-based learning on ecology and climate change, which will be published and exhibited. The project promotes inclusivity by offering these resources in both English and Swahili, along with plans for translation into local languages, ensuring that climate education is accessible to all students and teachers involved.

The project initiated by ODDB NGO addressed the environmental challenge of plastic waste management, which poses serious issues like ocean pollution, blocked drainage systems causing flooding, the spread of diseases, respiratory problems from open burning of waste, and harm to wildlife. Recognizing the importance of educating young people, the initiative celebrated World Environmental Education Day 2024 by organizing an awareness session for students at the Public Primary School (EPP) of Tanto, followed by a cleanliness campaign in the surrounding area. The primary goal was to enhance environmental education in urban settings by informing students about the impacts of plastic waste and engaging them in cleanup efforts, successfully involving over 100 students in this important initiative.

Friendly SEED, the first Taiwanese social enterprise focused on environmental education (EE), was established in 2010 by a group of EE professionals dedicated to promoting sustainability. Through effective brand management and curriculum development, they have created systematic learning programs, initiated corporate ESG action plans with over 60 companies, and helped multiple nature education sites obtain certification as environmental education facilities. By fostering public-private partnerships with industry, government, and academia, Friendly SEED aims to drive positive impacts in environmental sustainability education. In celebration of World Environmental Education Day on October 14th, they organized various events, including corporate environmental action days, beach and mountain cleanups, training for environmental educators, hands-on career experiences for ecological workers like fishers, and DIY art-making activities using natural materials.

The 8th World Environmental Education Day saw significant participation, highlighting the community’s commitment to environmental education and sustainability. Additionally, many other projects were submitted, including “Chargé de sensibilisation sur la protection de l’environnement au sein de MKAAJI MPYA asbl”, a local association based in the province of South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo; the “Red de Medio Ambiente” de la Universidad de La Habana; the “LACA” (Looking At Climate Action) project in Zambia; “Exploring the Oceans: Marine Education for Schoolchildren”, a project by the Vellmari Association and “Climate Fresk”, a French educational initiative designed to raise awareness about climate change through an interactive workshop.

These initiatives further demonstrate the collective effort to foster environmental awareness and action across various communities and educational settings.

 

8th World Environmental Education Day: celebrating today, October 14

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October 14 marks the anniversary of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Conference on Environmental Education, held in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1977. This conference, which concluded on October 26, was a milestone, reflecting the growing awareness and concern within society and institutions at the time. For the first time, environmental issues and education for environmental awareness were officially recognized at an institutional level, following the 1972 UN Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm.

The main outcome of the 1977 conference was the Tbilisi Declaration, which set out the principles of environmental education. It emphasized that education should be global and community-based, continuous, and lifelong. It should engage people of all ages, particularly young people, to foster a sense of active responsibility for the environment.

Forty years later, in 2017, the WEEC (World Environmental Education Congress) network launched the first World Environmental Education Day in Vancouver, coinciding with its ninth global congress and the participation of the Georgian government. In 2024, we are celebrating the eighth World Environmental Education Day, and to mark this occasion, the WEEC network is compiling all projects and initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness.

Every project plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the need to rethink our relationship with the environment, develop the interdisciplinary skills needed to navigate today’s complex challenges, and cultivate a population that is mindful of environmental issues. We need action from everyone!

Projects for World Environmental Education Day

This year, between September 14 and October 30, organizations involved in environmental education, along with museums, parks, schools, and other institutions, are running awareness-raising projects.

To celebrate the eighth World Environmental Education Day, the WEEC network is gathering all relevant projects to highlight the growing interest in this field. At the end of October, a 2024 Final Report will be published, summarizing all submitted initiatives, which will also be promoted through our media channels.

Many projects have already been submitted, approaching the theme from different angles and using various methods, all of which are effective.

Some projects feature in-person activities following informal education models, giving participants hands-on experiences of environmental stewardship. For example, the Vellmari Association focuses on marine environment protection in the Balearic Islands, organizing communication campaigns about the role of marine ecosystems, research initiatives, and educational programs. They have launched the “Exploring the Oceans” project, designed to raise awareness among children and youth aged 8 to 17.

Other projects focus on creating networks. One initiative, currently in the planning phase, envisions a digital platform for sharing practical and theoretical knowledge among teachers, students, and anyone interested in environmental education.

While some projects are new, others build on the long-standing efforts of institutions and communities with a history of environmental education. One such project is led by Hardwood Education in partnership with People to People Kenya, which fosters knowledge exchange between teachers in the United Kingdom and Kenya.

Around the world, organizations are undertaking diverse initiatives—differing in approach, method, and audience—yet all united by the common goal of raising awareness for World Environmental Education Day.

Share your project with us!

Every action matters in our collective effort to create a more sustainable world, promote environmental education, and raise awareness about the issues that concern us all. The WEEC network, a global alliance of environmental educators, will manage these projects. The next WEEC congress will take place in Perth, Australia, in 2026—an opportunity to expand your knowledge, exchange experiences, and discuss best practices with experts in the field.

If you are running an initiative this October, we invite you to submit your project for inclusion. Want to get involved? Submit your project here and sign the petition to make October 14 the official World Environmental Education Day. Click here for more information and to sign. Every action counts!

Centr’ERE presents: journées de l’éducation relative à l’environnement 2024

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From October 10 to 29, 2024, the Centre de recherche en éducation et formation relatives à l’environnement et à l’écocitoyenneté (Centr’ERE) at the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) is hosting the “Journées de l’éducation relative à l’environnement.” This major event is centered around three significant dates: World Teachers’ Day (October 5), the “Discovery” of the Americas (October 12), and World Environmental Education Day (October 14), offering a thoughtful reflection on Indigenous and environmental issues.

The 2024 edition features a diverse program of seminars, conferences, round tables, and workshops that address environmental education through interdisciplinary and cross-cultural lenses. You can find the full program in the attachment (click here). Below is a preview of the key activities:

Program highlights

Study day: Ecosocial intervention education
Training and Engagement for the Socio-Ecological Transition
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
This day will explore ecosocial justice with contributions from experts in social work education, integrating academic insights and community-based practices.

Seminar: perceiving sound in our relationship to the world
Tuesday, October 15, 2024 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
In collaboration with Canada Sound Week, this seminar examines ecology through sound, highlighting listening as a key tool for understanding the environment.

Workshop-seminar: textile circularity and ecocitizenship
Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
This bilingual seminar delves into the environmental impact of the textile industry, promoting circular economy practices. The University of Havana will also share innovative approaches in textile sustainability.

Round table: trajectories, perspectives, and challenges in contemporary environmental education
Thursday, October 29, 2024 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
A panel discussion on the future of environmental education, featuring leading experts in the field. The event will also mark the launch of a new book showcasing interdisciplinary contributions.

The full program, which offers both in-person sessions at UQAM and online participation via Zoom, is available now. Check the attachment (click here) for details, and join us in this collective reflection on environmental education and civic engagement!

For more information and to access online participation links, visit the official event page.

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!

International Secretariat

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

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