Reminder
World Environmental Education Day 2024

Every year, on January 26, we celebrate World Environmental Education Day. We have done so since 1975 to raise awareness about environmental issues, promote understanding of the interdependence between humans and the environment, and fostering a sense of responsibility for environmental conservation and sustainable practices. This day also provides an opportunity to discuss topics such as climate change, biodiversity, sustainable development, and the importance of protecting natural resources. The goal is to inspire informed and environmentally conscious people who contribute to the well-being of the planet. It originated at the 1972 United Nations Conference on Human Environment in Stockholm, Sweden. It was discussed at this conference that, in order to protect and enhance the environment, there are a few universal rules and guidelines that need to be adhered to. Therefore, in 1975 experts from over 70 countries met in Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia) for the International Workshop on Environment which led to the publication of the "Belgrade Charter".

The Hanns Seidel Foundation also takes part in environmental education. Last year, the representative of the foundation, Dr. Bernhard Seliger, gave a guest lecture at the State University of New York in Songdo, Incheon. He presented the foundation’s work in Korea and particularly focused on biodiversity and environmental protection, covering topics such as wetlands, migratory bird routes, deforestation, and Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects in North Korea.

HSF representatives from Zhejiang, Shanghai, Mongolia, and Korea participated in the 15th Asia-Pacific RCE Regional Meeting. During the event, they engaged in exchanges of experiences with 130 experts representing 33 Regional Centers of Expertise (RCEs) across 14 countries. The discussions focused on fostering collaboration and exploring future prospects for sustainable development initiatives. As part of the meeting's agenda, the HSF representatives embarked on visits to Seonchon village and Byeokbang Elementary School. These visits aimed to delve into the various Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) initiatives in place, gaining insights into the practices and approaches employed. The emphasis throughout the meeting was on promoting and strengthening sustainable collaboration among RCEs, underscoring the importance of working together to address environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable communities.

Environmental Education is a critical agent in addressing global climate and environmental issues. By raising awareness for those topics through education, it becomes more likely to increase transnational collaboration and effectively combat climate change and ecological destruction worldwide.