WeLoveU supports children’s big dreams by providing audiovisual equipment
On August 29, the WeLoveU School 2024 event, titled “Ecological
Environmental Education for All,” was held at the WeLoveU Education Center.
The program, under the theme “Save the World: Small Steps of Global Citizens1,”
offered a valuable opportunity to learn about the importance of environmental
protection in the face of the climate crisis and encouraged participants
to take small, collective steps for the well-being of our planet.

1 Citizens as entities that make up the world reflects the view
that the world is one country and humanity is the people of the one country.

Sixty adult female members from Seongnam City attended the education
on this day. With a focus on practicing environmental protection starting from
the smallest unit of society—the family—mothers took the lead in the initiative.

After an ice-breaking session aimed at fostering communication
and bringing laughter among participants, the atmosphere became
more relaxed, allowing the formal education session to begin smoothly.

In his opening remarks, Secretary-General Lee Seung-eon of WeLoveU
stated, “As climate disasters increase, the need to support our neighbors
around the world grows stronger, making the role of environmental leaders
in responding to climate change crucial. In these times, if mothers take on
the role of environmental leaders in their homes, they can cultivate
environmental awareness within their families, communities,
and ultimately the world, leading to significant change.”
He warmly welcomed the members participating in the education.

Everyone Should Pursue Carbon Neutrality for Sustainability

At 1:30 PM, Kim Ock-hyeon, Vice President of the
Korea Committee of the International Union for Conservation of Nature,
delivered a special lecture titled “The Climate Crisis and the Ecological Crisis.”
“This year, the surface temperature has reached the hottest level in 100,000
years,” began Vice President Kim. He explained that due to increasingly severe
climate issues, we may lose the ecosystem services2 we have long benefited
from. Using various statistical data, he clearly illustrated the serious impacts
of climate change and ecosystem destruction on both humanity and the planet.

2 It refers to the benefits that humans receive from water, energy, clean air, and the various functions and activities of ecosystems in nature.

He also emphasized the importance of carbon neutrality for achieving
a sustainable life and environment, urging everyone to actively engage
in environmental activities such as practicing “BMW (Bus, Metro, Walk),”
participating in cleanups, and planting trees. He expressed admiration for
WeLoveU members, saying, “They’re already putting these practices into action,”
and extended his gratitude to those who continue their environmental efforts.

The participants reflected on the fact that the climate crisis and ecological
crisis are issues directly tied to the survival of all humanity.

Big Changes From the Small Stepsof Global Citizens in the Climate Crisis

After the special lecture, the participants were divided into two groups
to engage in group activities. In the experiential activity titled
“We Are Connected by One Thread,” participants formed a circle and responded
to the question, “When do you feel connected to the world?” as they tossed yarn
to one another, creating an intricate network. Each time someone dropped
or shook the yarn, they felt the movement pass through the circle,
gaining a tangible understanding of the interconnectedness of the world.

In the following activity titled “Small Steps of Global Citizens,”
participants used materials created by WeLoveU
to share their opinions on environmental protection activities
and collaboratively discuss solutions to environmental issues.

After the presider showed beautiful images of natural environments from
around the world, including Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia and Pink Sands Beach
on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, she presented photos of trash-covered
areas such as the Chilean desert and the Citarum River in Indonesia,
which elicited gasps of dismay from the participants. When the presider stated,
“The trash we carelessly discard is damaging our beautiful Earth,”
the participants nodded in agreement,
deeply resonating with the seriousness of the environmental issues.

The members concluded the group activities
with an understanding of prioritizing the Earth over personal needs.
They reaffirmed their commitment to creating a world where the planet
and humanity coexist harmoniously by engaging in “small steps,”
such as the Clean World Movement and Zero Waste initiatives.

“I reflected on myself as a global citizen. Earth is our shared home, where diverse plants and animals coexist, yet it seems that human selfishness has led to environmental issues, which is disheartening. I believe that if each of us participates in environmental activities, we can create small but definite changes.” Ha Hyeon-suk

“It was a valuable time to grasp the seriousness of environmental issues and share solidarity. Discussing with members broadened my perspective on the Earth’s environment. I hope many more will join environmental education.” Lim Jin-hee

“I have come to understand the importance of the environment and how my life is connected to the world. Although I may not be perfect, I will do my best, knowing that my small actions can make a difference. A small change has already begun in my life.” Jeon Sang-hee

“I realized that protecting the environment is not just something distant or unrelated to me; it is a way to protect my loved ones and show my love for them.” Yoo Ji-eun

“It was a valuable time filled with new experiences. I am grateful to have participated in this education, and I want to share what I learned today with those who didn’t attend.” Lee Young-min

“I am just one person among 8 billion, but I hope that my small actions can contribute, even a little, to the Earth’s environment. I also believe that countries and governments should pay more attention to environmental issues and establish systems and policies.” Kim Young-hee

“I have always been interested in environmental protection and thought, ‘I was doing well enough’ with my various activities. However, after the education, I realized my efforts were mainly for my own satisfaction. Learning about the seriousness of old clothing waste prompted me to reflect on my shopping habits, and shifted my perspective to approach consumption from a global point of view.” Kwon Jeong-hyeon

“I’m grateful to have learned about environmental issues in-depth and realized through hands-on activities how the world is interconnected. I will remember today’s lessons and put them into practice. Thank you for the meaningful experience.” Jo Yeon-ju

WeLoveU will continue to inspire more people to take an interest in
and actively engage in environmental protection through various
educational programs, striving to create a greener Earth.

We hope that the collective small actions of global citizens
will come together to achieve the goal of saving the Earth’s environment.