KUCHING: A collaborative effort between the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), Sarawak Eco Warriors (SEW), and Plants for Plastic has led to a transformative workshop held at Samajaya Nature Reserve here on Saturday.
Themed ‘Nature and Peace Youth Workshop,’ it brought together 30 individuals aged 18 to 35, fostering a passion for nature conservation and peace.
The workshop focused on ecosystem services, global citizenship, and the impact of international frameworks like the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) on environmental advocacy.
Participants also explored the vital role of ecosystem services in sustaining life and the planet’s ecosystem, alongside tools for global citizenship to contribute positively to the world.
President of Sarawak Eco Warriors Mark Liao praised the programme’s success in connecting social issues with nature conservation.
“The Nature and Peace Youth Workshop is more than just an educational programme; it’s a call to action for young leaders to stand at the forefront of environmental and peace advocacy.
“The first-time running of the programme worked exceptionally well and we are pleased as it highlights the interconnectedness of social issues and nature conservation,” he said in a statement.
A crucial part of the workshop focused on understanding how the KMGBF impacts local conservation efforts through National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans (NBSAPs). This highlighted the connection between global policies and grassroots actions.
Additionally, the session on the DPCW underscored peace as a cornerstone for environmental sustainability, showcasing the interplay between peace-building and nature preservation.
Moreover, the workshop provided practical communication skills training, empowering participants to effectively use various platforms to advocate for nature conservation and peace.
