Towards Greener Future

The national Eco Summit jointly organized by WWF, Environment Conservation Teacher Forum, School Environment Conservation Education Network, Nepal (SENSE-Nepal), Environment Conservation Teacher Society and Eco Club Network Nawalparasi on 22 – 23 May 2009 saw the convergence of more than 700 students and teachers from 18 districts of Nepal in Chitwan। The slogan of the summit was "Climate for my life". The students, teachers and locals rallied around Chitrasari and Sauraha chanting slogans to raise awareness on climate change, biodiversity conservation and responsibility of youth towards it, on the inaugural day of the summit.The summit was able to strengthen the eco club network across the country and paved the way for developing the eco club students as Green Youth, the future conservation partner. The summit came up with Chitwan Declaration declaring Falgun 2 (13 February) as Eco Club Day to be celebrated nationwide.

Notes: An Eco Club is an independent group of students working collectively to support the conservation of natural and cultural environment in their respective schools and communities. WWF Nepal in coordination with conservation partners initiated the formation of school based environmental clubs – Eco Clubs since 1994. Altogether 463 Eco Clubs have been formed in 22 districts of Nepal. Eco Club members carry out various curricular and extra curricular activities to enhance their knowledgeof the environment and its conservation and to raise awareness among students, teachers and youth, encouraging them to participate in the conservation of the natural and cultural environment at local and national level. First Eco Club Summit was held from 30 May to 5 June 2000 in Kathmandu with the theme ‘Make a difference-join Eco Club!’ It was participated by 2,000 students, teachers and other stakeholders. The event was a huge success in heightening awareness on the importance of environmental awareness. In 2004, Eco Club Meet was organized on the occasion of World Environment Day from 1 June to 6 June 2004 in Kathmandu. Series of activities were organized during Eco Club Meet 2004.