THE DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources in Western Visayas engaged the participation of students in the protection and conservation of natural resources.

Artemio Salvador Colacion, head of DENR Regional Strategic Communication and Initiatives Group-Western Visayas, said the Environment and Natural Resources Ambassador project was conceptualized by the ‘Tayo ang Kalikasan’ at its central office to be implemented in the regions.

“This involves students or youths in different organizations. We will involve them in the protection, conservation, and management of the environment through information, education, and communication, social mobilization, and partnership building,” Colacion said.

“The program is open to graduating elementary and high school students who will be endorsed by their respective school heads and youth organizations for those who are representing their group,” he added.

Aside from engaging the students as partners for the environment, the DENR is also pushing for their behavioral changes to become environment-friendly.

“This first year, we have 30 ENR Ambassadors. Our teachers and local DENR officials will closely coordinate with them on how they can help the student-ambassadors,” Colacion said.

DENR said it will organize capability training and give briefings on programs and projects of the department for students to have an idea of what activities in school can be linked with the department.

The students are expected to write environment-related articles in their school papers, participate in environmental lectures and activities, and prepare environmental reports using various social media platforms for one year.

“Local information officers of the DENR will report the quarterly accomplishment of the ENR ambassadors. After a year they will be screened to determine if they will be renewed for another year or to know if there are interested to continue or will opt to stop,” Colacion said.

“As environmental warriors, they will be given pocket Wi-Fi for connectivity, face masks, and shields for them to observe health protocols,” he added.

The ENR Ambassadors have to sign a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement and thereafter, can already start posting their various environmental activities on the official Facebook page of the DENR.

“We had an orientation last week and we will have a series of virtual briefings. We are just waiting for a schedule that is okay for everyone,” Colacion added.

Meanwhile, Regional Executive Director Francisco Milla Jr., said “students have an important role to play in nation-building as well as in environmental awareness.”

“They can help in the promotion of Program for ENR for Restoration, Rehabilitation and Development with the end goal of positive behavioral change through the conduct of information, education and communication campaign, advocacy, and social mobilization,” Milla said.