Highlighting the importance of nature-based learning, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines National Youth Council (NYC) led by members Nikki Huang, Deign Soriano, Gab Mejia, and Romina Lim presented another Conservation Conversation webisode last June 9, 2020 via Facebook Live.

The webisode, which featured WWF-Philippines National Ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez, discussed the panelists’ background and experience in environmental education to inspire viewers to step up and do their part for nature.

Fernandez, who took his studies in the United States, shared how gradual learning about the environment—from simply collecting leaves to learning about photosynthesis—helped him as a person. “It was a big factor in my life that led me to who I am today, somebody who not just knows about nature, but respects it, and understands it.”

Lim, a research assistant for the UP Marine Science Institute, noted that the best strategy to learn about environmental conservation is to experience it on your own. “I really believe that the best way to learn about the environment is to experience nature first hand. You have to go outside, and once you’re outside, you will either appreciate the beauty of nature or be angry after seeing the damage that we have done. And in both cases, you’ll be driven to protect the Earth. Deeper emotions come from being there and immersing yourself.”

In 2008, the Republic Act 9512 which aims to promote environmental awareness through environmental education was enacted in the Philippines. The act encourages government agencies and education institutions to promote initiatives and activities that engage school children in terms of environmental awareness. Soriano, the NYC’s resident biology instructor, shared that the policy has also integrated studies about native species in the curriculum to instill localized environmental learning to Filipino students.

The talk also highlighted how environmental education has helped guests find their career path.