WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY 2023: #BEATPLASTICPOLLUTION
The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and its partners, ACDP, NCDC Events, NCDC Education, CEPA, UPNG, UNDP, along with sponsors EU and MotuKea International Terminal, successfully hosted the Amazing Port Moresby Art Exhibition, Panel Discussion, and Coral & Mangrove Planting Demonstration in commemoration of World Environment Day 2023.
The event, held at APEC Haus from 8:00am to 5:00pm, brought together 23 schools and more than 500 school children, youth, and teachers. It aimed to address the plastic problem, raise awareness, foster dialogue, and inspire action for a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
The art exhibition showcased the creative expressions of students, conveying powerful messages about plastic pollution and the importance of sustainable practices. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the remarkable artworks and visit partner booths to learn more about their initiatives and resources.
Exciting news was also shared during the event, as all participating schools received a special gift—a bicycle generously donated by MotuKea International Terminal. This contribution promotes sustainable transportation and encourages physical activity among students, while furthering the goal of creating a cleaner environment.
The panel discussion featured esteemed speakers, including Vinzelhar Nen, Youth Environment Activist as the moderator, Elsie Hampalekie Simeon, UNDP Project Manager on Coral Reefs and Marine Conservation, UPNG students David Kwaiking and Stephanie Urae, Vagi Rai, Senior Official from CEPA and Dr. Adrian Fowler, CEO of the Nature Park. Their insights and expertise provided valuable perspectives on addressing plastic pollution and promoting environmental conservation.
The event also included engaging question and answer sessions, a dance performance by the Active City Dance Team, and a specially curated environment sketch presented by Poly Crew in the afternoon session. In addition, a coral and mangrove planting demonstration took place at Ela Beach, further highlighting the significance of preserving marine ecosystems.
During the event also, the students had the privilege of a special attendance by Colonel Malau from the PNGDF and Commander Kiddy Keko from Bomana CIS, accompanied by Governor of NCD, Hon. Powes Parkop. This memorable moment allowed the students to share an inspiring interaction with these esteemed guests, further emphasizing the importance of their role in creating a sustainable future.
The panel discussion was livestreamed on NCDC's City Sivarai Facebook page, allowing a wider audience to participate and gain awareness about the urgent need to combat plastic pollution.
As the event concluded, the collective efforts, insightful discussions, and creative expressions of the youth serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility in creating a sustainable future. By inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship, we can work together to beat plastic pollution and create a cleaner and more sustainable Port Moresby.