National Student Delegation Gathers in Delhi for Environmental Governance Training
Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
In a significant initiative towards climate action, students from across India convened in Delhi for the Model Conference of Parties-5 (MCOP-5) to delve into the intricacies of environmental governance. The five-day intensive program, organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF), offered 72 young delegates from various states a transformative experience. Themed "Generation 30," the event emphasized improved environmental governance and aimed at the restoration of biodiversity by 2030.
A highlight of the event was the participation of the Meghalaya contingent. Representing a state rich in natural resources, Chahat Kumari and her team expressed a keen interest in utilizing online tools to identify and study Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) like bamboo and medicinal plants. The team aimed to understand the impact of NTFPs on local communities and promote fair trade practices.
The MCOP-5 featured a series of insightful workshops and interactive sessions conducted by environmental experts. These sessions equipped the students with essential skills such as developing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) action plans, effective communication for conservation, and leadership for conservation action. Dr. Erach Barucha, a seasoned wildlife and nature conservationist, underscored the importance of communication skills in environmental leadership.
Neha Raghav, Director of Environment Education at WWF India, highlighted the organization’s commitment to spreading awareness and encouraging citizen involvement in conservation efforts. "We aim to extend the Model Conference of Parties to the state level so students can tackle larger issues in the future," she stated.
Student delegates, including Akansha Mishra from Meghalaya and Ayaan Singh Bisht from Himachal Pradesh, expressed their resolve to implement their learnings back home. Akansha emphasized the mantra, "We breathe what we buy," while Ayaan called for increased awareness at the school level through rallies and competitions.
Ziya Rouf, Secretary of the MCOP-5 Student Council from J&K, and Simran Jain from Karnataka stressed the role of youth in driving change through sustainable lifestyles and community involvement.
The MCOP-5’s collaborative effort included notable organizations such as the National Biodiversity Authority of India (NBA), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the IUCN Commission on Education and Communication (IUCN-CEC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Capgemini India. This collaboration aims to empower student delegates with the knowledge and skills needed to forge a sustainable future, reinforcing their commitment to environmental action.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/young-minds-green-solutions/article68440746.ece
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