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

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

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.

“No limits to hope”: an international research project for a new educational paradigm

WEEC Network, Club of Rome, and The Fifth Element join forces to tackle global challenges through transformative learning.

Announced during the 12th World environmental education congress held in early 2024 in Abu Dhabi, the international research initiative “No Limits to Hope: Transforming Learning for Better Futures” officially begins. This ambitious project arises from the collaboration between WEEC Network, the Club of Rome, and The Fifth Element.

Forty-five years after the publication of the Club of Rome’s 7th report, titled “No Limits to Learning: Bridging the Human Gap”, the Club of Rome, The Fifth Element, and WEEC Network are launching a new global initiative. This research project is designed to inspire educators, students, and global citizens to foster a shift in educational and learning paradigms to address the pressing challenges of our time.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT, CLICK HERE

Rethinking how we learn and act

We live in an era marked by environmental crises, social inequalities, and geopolitical tensions. Overcoming these challenges requires rethinking how we learn and act. “No Limits to Hope” aims to transform mindsets and promote a more equitable and sustainable world through innovative collaborative approaches to learning and problem-solving.

The roots of the project

In the 1979 report, Aurelio Peccei highlighted how human progress was often “frantic and disorderly,” emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between the human condition and the natural environment. Today, more than ever, it is urgent to address his critical question: “Can we bridge this gap before it is too late?”

The response lies in:

  • Drawing on vision and creativity.
  • Mobilizing moral energy for change.
  • Objectives of “No Limits to Hope”

The project aspires to…

  • Catalyze cultural change: transform the ways we think and act to build a healthier planet and create equitable opportunities for all.
  • Facilitate transformative learning: harness the power of education to inspire innovation and break down barriers to change.
  • Generate new knowledge: update and expand the original Club of Rome report to reflect current global challenges and provide new insights for the future.

Call to action

The Club of Rome, The Fifth Element, and WEEC Network invite researchers, educators, and professionals to contribute research proposals, articles, and case studies exploring new educational paradigms capable of fostering systemic transformation at local and global levels.

Deadlines:

  • March 31, 2025: Submission of proposals.
  • November 30, 2025: Notification of selected contributions.

Benefits:

  • Publication of contributions in a high-impact book.
  • Collaboration with international experts and participation in webinars, conferences, and global campaigns.
  • Contribution to a global movement for educational transformation.

READ THE CALL FOR CONTRIBUTORS, CLICK HERE

Join the change

For more information and to participate in the “No limits to hope” project, contact:

Project partners

  • Club of Rome: An international network of leaders and thinkers committed to holistic solutions for planetary emergencies. Since 1968, it has promoted research and policies for a sustainable future.
  • The Fifth Element: An initiative that combines traditional wisdom and cutting-edge science to catalyze human and environmental change.
  • WEEC Network: A global reference point for environmental education and sustainable development, with over 20 years of experience in sharing best educational practices.

Together, let’s make a difference by transforming education to create a more just and sustainable future.

 

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Leveraging COP 28 consensus for inclusive socio-environmental transformation

Brazil and paths after COP 28

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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