Buea, Cameroon – May 23, 2025
On Friday, May 23, 2025, the global community marked the International Day for Biological Diversity, with this year’s theme: “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.” In celebration of this significant occasion, the Community Based Climate Association (COBCA), in collaboration with youth-led Civil Society Organizations(CSO), hosted a dynamic workshop at the University of Buea.
Among the key participants was the Association of Community Awareness (ASCOA), which joined over 70 young environmental enthusiasts, primarily students from the Department of Environmental Science and the Faculty of Engineering and Technology to explore innovative ways to address the urgent challenges facing biodiversity today.
Workshop Highlights
The workshop featured a rich program of presentations, interactive sessions, and quizzes designed to both educate and inspire. Topics included:
- The policy framework governing biodiversity conservation in Cameroon and beyond
- Innovative solutions for waste management
- Strategies for ocean conservation in the face of growing marine degradation
- The interconnectedness of climate action and biodiversity, underscoring the need for integrated approaches to sustainability
These sessions not only deepened understanding of complex environmental issues but also highlighted the importance of youth engagement in environmental activism. Students were challenged to develop innovative ideas and projects aimed at solving real-life biodiversity and climate-related problems, reinforcing the role of young people as catalysts for environmental change.
The Role of ASCOA
As an organization deeply committed to grassroots development and environmental stewardship, ASCOA actively participated by sharing practical insights into community-based approaches to sustainability. Their contribution emphasized collaborative action, policy advocacy, and local empowerment as critical tools in the conservation movement.
The presence of ASCOA, alongside other organizations and experts, reflected the importance of partnership in achieving biodiversity conservation goals. Through dialogue and collective brainstorming, participants developed a renewed sense of purpose and unity in the fight to protect Earth’s natural resources.
The Origin and Purpose of World Biodiversity Day
World Biodiversity Day, officially known as the International Day for Biological Diversity, is celebrated every year on May 22. It was established by the United Nations in 1993, commemorating the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The day serves to promote global awareness of biodiversity issues and encourage actions to conserve ecosystems and species worldwide.
Did You Know?
- Biodiversity provides essential services such as food, clean water, air purification, climate regulation, and disease control.
- Over one million species are currently threatened with extinction, largely due to human activity.
- Engaging youth and local communities is key to driving sustainable environmental solutions.
Lighting the Path Toward Harmony with Nature
The workshop at the University of Buea was more than a celebration, it was a call to action. It served as a powerful reminder that living in harmony with nature requires both systemic change and individual responsibility. By empowering young people, building partnerships, and fostering innovation, the event demonstrated that sustainable development is possible and it begins with collective commitment.
As ASCOA and its partners continue to support community-led efforts, the momentum from this year’s World Biodiversity Day celebration is expected to translate into real, lasting impact for both people and the planet.