With the aim of reflecting on and taking action regarding environmental justice for the care of the Earth, the Pedro Poveda Higher Institute of Educational Studies (ISESP), the Poveda Cultural Centre (CCP), the Centre for Family Integration (CIF) and the Pedro Poveda Centre for Socio-Cultural Training (CEFOSOP), joined forces to organise the seminar ‘Integral Ecology and Critical Environmental Education’, aimed at staff from these organisations, teachers, students and community leaders; to promote global awareness and action for the protection of life and to jointly develop responses that contribute to establishing a more harmonious relationship with all who inhabit the planet.
The event took place as part of the celebrations for World Environment Day. “It is not just a day for reflection, but also for action. Every tree planted, every drop of water not consumed, every item of waste recycled, and every sustainable decision counts towards the sustainability of the Earth,” states a press release from the organisers. Dr Iluminada Rosario, rector of ISESP, delivered the opening address, calling for ecological conversion and a civic commitment to the protection of life in our ‘common home’.
The seminar concluded with a manifesto addressed to the authorities of the Dominican State:
1. That they assume their environmental responsibility in caring for the environment by enforcing and effectively monitoring compliance with the Constitution and Law 64-00.
2. That a public policy on critical environmental education be developed, with a focus on integral ecology at all levels of the education system.
3. That effective coordination be promoted among all state institutions with environmental remit to ensure compliance with regulations.
4. That a model of territorial governance be implemented based on the genuine participation of local communities and civil society organisations.
5. That any exploitation projects in areas of high biodiversity and headwater catchments be suspended immediately.
6. That prior, free and informed consultation with communities be guaranteed before approving extraction or tourism development projects in their territories.
7. That international cooperation and foreign investment be conditional upon the unrestricted respect for environmental and community rights.
TA Info in the Dominican Republic.
Published in News