Earth Charter International participated in the 20th Annual Conference of IEF (International Environment Forum), whose topic was: “Implementing Sustainable Development Goals as communities and individuals”, where the focus was the situation in Latin America related to the implementation of SDG 4, SDG 11 and SDG 12.
SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning
SDG 11: Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
The Conference took place at Nur University in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, on 7-9 October 2016.
People from several Latin American countries were invited to share experiences that are supporting the implementation of these SDGs. Among the initiatives, a representative of the Government of Bolivia presented the national policy on education for caring for Mother Earth. There were also presentations about promotion of social entrepreneurship for sustainable businesses in Colombia, organic farm production in Bolivia, initiatives on values-based education for sustainable consumption that PERL network is organizing, among others. The Earth Charter was highlighted as a tool that can be used to advance SDG 4, when trying to put in practice quality education processes. The Coordinator Desk of the 10YFP Sustainable Lifestyles and Education Programme, Patricia Vilchis, presented this Programme and the opportunities for collaboration that it presents.
In general, this event was a great opportunity to strengthen partnerships and find new opportunities for collaboration, especially on sustainable lifestyles and education actions. Nur University is creating a video with the presentations, which we will share.