Empowering the Next Generation: Youth Learn to Lead the Zero Waste Movement
In line with the celebration of National Zero Waste Month this January, the Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Unit of the DENR – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Palawan successfully conducted an environmental lecture for selected students of Sta. Monica National High School and Palawan National School.
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The activity aimed to raise environmental awareness and enhance students’ understanding of proper waste management, climate change, and environmental protection. A total of 40 students participated in the lecture, demonstrating enthusiasm and active involvement throughout the activity.
The activity featured key environmental topics. A resource speaker from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) discussed Republic Act No. 9003, emphasizing proper waste segregation, recycling, waste reduction, and community responsibility in solid waste management. The Conservation and Development Section representative explained the causes and effects of climate change and its link to improper waste disposal. Meanwhile, the IEC Chief of PENRO Palawan highlighted environmental protection, the impacts of environmental degradation, and the important role of the youth in preserving natural resources for future generations.
After each discussion, a question-and-answer portion was conducted to assess the students’ learning and understanding of the topics presented.
Celebrating National Zero Waste Month is important as it promotes awareness and collective action toward reducing waste generation, practicing proper waste management, and fostering environmentally responsible behavior. The observance serves as a reminder of everyone’s shared responsibility in protecting the environment and supporting sustainable development for present and future generations.