TEHRAN – Head of Ieng Srong, Tehran office of the United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO), has invited me to participate in the 5th World Conference on Biosphere Reserve (WCBR) scheduled to be held from September 22-26 in Hangtucho, China.
Working on a workshop on “Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods in Iran’s Biosphere Reserve” and a preparatory meeting for China 2025 WCBR in Sharud, Semnan province, officials said it is essential to boost cooperation in protecting the planet and promoting human well-being. Holding a meeting is important to achieving your goals, Irna quoted Thron as saying.
The workshop will be held on Thursday and will feature 13 biosphere reserves, professors and expert heads attending events to commemorate International Day for Biological Diversity.
Iran is a pioneer in environmental protection. However, the country faces several challenges, including climate change, water shortages and drought, poses a serious threat to the country’s environment, officials said.
“Biodiversity and sustainable development strengthen the relationship between humans and the environment. Therefore, these three points are extremely important: wisely use natural resources, improve local economies, and maintain ecosystem health,” added Srong.
International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated on May 22nd. The day highlights the inherent connection between people and the natural world through “harmony with nature and sustainable development.”
This highlights the need to achieve the Kunming Montorial Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) target in conjunction with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in 2030 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.
Iran’s UNESCO Programme, including Environmental Education
Environmental Education is on the list of major UNESCO programs in Iran and aims to develop sustainable solutions and international cooperation to address environmental challenges.
From a UNESCO perspective, environmental education is a learning process that raises public awareness of the environment and its challenges. Equipping individuals with knowledge, skills, values, experience and goals to address these environmental issues, the IRNA cites Hassan Faltosi, Secretary-General of Iran’s UNESCO National Committee.
Educational programs include the International Hydrology Program, International Geoscience and Geopolitics Program, Intergovernmental Oceanography Program, and International Basic Science Program. The Greening Education Partnership, he said, is one of the most important initiatives UNESCO has adopted to help the country help tackle climate change.
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