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.