The ECOnversations initiative, presented by the Communication Foundation for Asia (CFA), Gerry Roxas Foundation (GRF), and Center for Conservation Innovation PH with the support of USAID, is a platform that aims to foster a convergence of tradition, culture, and science in conservation efforts. Held every third Friday of the month at 2 PM, this initiative has gained significant traction since its launch on September 30, 2022. The ECOnversations is not your ordinary environmental discussion series. It’s a vibrant blend of science, tradition, culture, and social media that will leave you inspired and empowered to make a difference.
The inaugural episode, “Greens and Grays: A Balance Between the Environment and Tourism,” marked an impactful beginning as it coincided with World Tourism Day. Esteemed guest speakers Louie Mencias, CEO of Blue Water Consultancy, and Dann Diez, Executive Director of Seed4com, shed light on responsible travel and the significance of enacting laws that safeguard our natural resources.
Responding to the Call for the Care and Protection of Mother Earth
In subsequent episodes, ECOnversations continued to ignite thought-provoking discussions. The second episode, titled “Responding to the Call for the Care and Protection of Mother Earth,” aligned with the season of creation, a dedicated time for environmental stewardship. Rodne Galicha, Executive Director of Living Laudato Si, and Candy Hidalgo, Coordinator at Philippine Misereor Partnership Inc., articulated the importance of our responsibility to nurture and safeguard our environment.
Mr. Galicha highlighted the significance of the season of creation, explaining that it is a time when people renew their connection with the creator and His creation. This season serves as a reminder of our responsibility to care for and protect the environment.
Ms. Hidalgo emphasized the importance of faith communities in caring for the environment. She expressed that since we were all created by one God, we have a shared responsibility to take care of our surroundings. Hidalgo stressed the idea of a higher calling, whereby faith communities should recognize that nature is interconnected with humanity.
Filipino Youth, Leading the Way in Climate Action
The third episode, “Filipino Youth, Leading the Way in Climate Action,” showcased the indispensable role played by young Filipinos in driving climate change initiatives. Ms. Alab Mirasol Ayroso, National Coordinator for Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines, and Rhyn Escolana, Co-Founder of the Association of Young Environmental Journalists (AYEJ), enlightened the audience on urgent climate solutions and the challenges in engaging society in environmental discourse.
Ms. Ayroso emphasized the urgent need for solutions to address the state of our climate. She discussed the significance of the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27), where world leaders gathered to discuss and negotiate steps to tackle the climate crisis.
Mr. Escolana shed light on the challenges associated with discussing environmental issues. He highlighted the importance of daily commitment to climate advocacy and how trends in media often overlook environmental issues. He added that environmental concerns are not always at the forefront when people open their social media platforms, making it vital to raise awareness and spark conversations about these issues.
From Waste to Ways – Solid Waste Management for Environmental Protection
The fourth episode, “From Waste to Ways – Solid Waste Management for Environmental Protection,” coincided with National Zero Waste Month. The remarkable Israela Krissan Sala, a dedicated volunteer from the Guadalupe Women’s Community, shared her invaluable experiences in protecting and conserving the environment, emphasizing the importance of responsible waste management.
During the episode, Ms. Sala provided advice for young people who wish to be part of the solution and join the drive to preserve the earth. She emphasized the importance of starting within oneself and encouraged quantifying daily waste to gain awareness. By tracking and striving to reduce waste generation, individuals can make a meaningful contribution to sustainable waste management practices.
ECOnversations: Your Ticket to Environmental Enlightenment
With each episode, ECOnversations demonstrates the power of exchanging ideas, experiences, and knowledge in the realm of conservation. Through the magic of social media, this initiative transforms ordinary conversations into extraordinary movements, inspiring wider public engagement.