NCD GOVERNOR POWES PARKOP URGES ACTION TO PROTECT THE PLANET, ENVIRONMENT, AND CITY.
In celebration of World Environment Day, the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) is thrilled to announce the re-launch of the 1 Million Trees Planting initiative.
This green initiative took place in 6 locations; Sana Peace Park, UPNG, Boroko (Agua Road), Bisini (Soccer Field), Murray Barracks and Bomana CIS and aims to transform Port Moresby's environmental landscape, promote sustainability, and contribute to a greener and healthier city.
The objective of the 1 Million Trees Planting initiative is to engage the community in a large-scale tree planting effort, enhancing green cover, mitigating climate change, improving air quality, and beautifying our city. By planting a million trees, we aim to create a lasting impact and leave a greener legacy for generations to come.
The 1 Million Trees Planting initiative is expected to yield significant benefits for Port Moresby. By increasing the green canopy, we will improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, provide habitats for wildlife, and enhance the overall well-being of our residents. This event will serve as a catalyst to inspire further tree planting efforts and encourage active participation in environmental conservation.
Today, NCD Governor Powes Parkop delivered three key messages emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to address global climate change, protect the natural environment, and create a cleaner and safer city.
In his address, Governor Parkop highlighted the following key messages:
#1: The Planet Needs Us: Governor Parkop emphasized that our planet is under severe stress due to climate change, rising temperatures, and sea level rise. He called for action at both the global and national levels, stressing that Papua New Guinea, as a host to one-third of the world's rainforests and part of the Coral Triangle, plays a crucial role in finding solutions to climate change and pollution. Governor Parkop urged the community to protect these valuable natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations.
#2: Protecting Our Natural Environment: Governor Parkop emphasized the importance of conserving and replenishing the flora and fauna that sustain us. He highlighted that our natural environment is our inheritance from our ancestors and needs to be protected. By preserving our biodiversity and natural habitats, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of our ecosystems and the services they provide.
#3: City Needs Us All: Governor Parkop expressed concern over the irresponsible littering practices that contribute to the degradation of our city and marine life. He highlighted the significant financial burden of cleaning up the city, with an annual expenditure of 30 million kina for waste collection and disposal. Governor Parkop called on the community to change their mindset and take responsibility for keeping the city clean, beautiful, safe, and environmentally friendly. He emphasized the importance of reducing plastic waste, particularly plastic bottles and packets, which pose a significant menace to the city and marine life.
Governor Parkop's messages serve as a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to actively contribute to the preservation and protection of our environment. By implementing sustainable practices and adopting a responsible mindset, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Port Moresby.
Our heartfelt gratitude to all the venues participated, sponsors and partners who have made this event possible. We acknowledge:
• TotalEnergies, the sponsor of the seedlings, for their generous support in providing the necessary resources to make this initiative a reality.
• MotuKea International Terminal, represented by Gwen Owen-Rothmaier and Inigo Mendibe, for their sponsorship of the World Environment Day programs.
• Mr. ScoZ Hackney, Team Leader of the PNGAUS Partnership Transport Sector Support Program, for their contribution of 200 seedlings.
• Hans Lambrecht, Chargé d'Affaires and Head of Cooperation Section in the EU Delegation, representing the EU Ambassador, for their presence and support.
• Steamships, for their valuable partnership and dedication to environmental conservation.