LEADERS of the Youth for Climate Hope along with those of various groups in Negros Occidental have underscored the need for environmental protection as they marked the Global Day for Climate Action 2020.
Dubbed "Think Global, Act Local," the group along with Negrense youth advocates, activists and campaigners who hope to bring to light environmental issues in the local community that continue to persist in the middle of a health crisis held a virtual conference on Friday, September 25, 2020.
It was also attended by young leaders from academic-based organizations, religious groups, university publications, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation - Negros Occidental, environment groups and youth-led non-government organizations that are actively leading campaigns for the preservation of the environment.
During the conference, advocates and campaigners delivered their statements, declarations and calls to action as they zoom in on the issues that affect the people and the planet.
Among the topics discussed included coal and renewable energy, plastic prohibition and management, solid waste management and coastal communities, blue swimming crabs conservation and black sand mining, community gardening and local food security.
They also tackled the responsibility of academe and institutions to reduce emissions, road construction and illegal structures at the Northern Negros Natural Park, the Laudato Si' and call to action to church members, SK leaders engagement, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
Krishna Ariola, convenor of Youth for Climate Hope, said they hope to bring light to local environmental issues being faced by communities in the province for the Global Day of Climate Action.
Ariola said that despite the limitations, they have continued to see youth-led organizations pursuing campaigns and fighting for justice on the ground.
"Young advocates have been relentless in their efforts, and they are the hope we deserve amidst all the hopelessness," she said, adding that "apart from just bringing awareness to issues, we want people to see the actions that come along with it."
The youth leader also said that "we are here, we are fighting, and we are actively shaping our tomorrows. It's time our leaders and people in power do their part in protecting communities, the people and the planet."
Among the participating groups were Linghod, Children Optimization for the Revitalization of Environment, Group of Environmental Socialist, Society of Environmental Enthusiasts for Development - UNO-R, La Salle Earthguards, Green Alert Network Negros Island Region, Student Catholic Action of the Philippines - Bacolod, Negrosanon Young Leaders Initiative, and Youth Empowering Youth Initiative.