RISING ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERS: HOW STUDENTS ARE TAKING CHARGE OF SUSTAINABLE FUTURE NERISSE NICOLE B. TORRES

Environmental leadership among students is essential for creating a sustainable future. Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O), as the only recognized co-curricular environmental club or organization in schools, aims to equip students with environmental initiatives and involvement. Aside from YES-O’s objectives to establish specific and doable programs, projects and activities to address issues and concerns on the environment and ecology, it also directs learners to become tomorrow’s leaders and decision-makers. There will be a generation of leaders who are passionate about sustainability and equipped to make informed decisions about environmental issues. Schools Division of Pampanga, in partnership with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pampanga (PENROPampanga), conducts environmental education lecture on various environmental topics such as biodiversity protection and conservation, ecological solid waste management, global warming and climate change, forest and watershed protection, clean air and water laws, importance of geohazard assessment, responsible mining, Manila Bay cleanup and rehabilitation and other topics related to environment and natural resources. Students, equipped with environmental knowledge, are now catered to an atmosphere of new ideas and innovative solutions deemed valuable in tackling environmental challenges. They can be aware and create awareness in others of the state of the Philippine environment and ecology, including prevailing issues and concerns. Schools are also training grounds for environmental leaderships. Schools can implement eco-friendly practices such as reducing waste, promoting recycling, and using renewable energy sources. These practices can serve as a model for students to follow in their daily lives. Schools can also develop green initiatives, such as establishing school gardens that involve student in environmentally friendly behaviors. Environmental leadership can have positive impact on the environment and local communities. By empowering students with the knowledge and skills to lead environmental initiatives, we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.

-oOoThe author is Project Development Officer I at Youth Formation Section, SDO Pampanga