Homes and lives bear the brunt of climate change. Incomes and livelihoods suffer. Ecosystems and species struggle. Yet, the response to climate change has been slow, partly due to the approach on how this crisis is being communicated. Climate messaging has always been framed as a science issue, and most narratives do not reflect changes in everyday experience of ordinary people.
In order to move mountains in the era of climate change, stories that bridge science and experiences are necessary. By harnessing the power of storytelling as an awareness-raising strategy, a children’s storybook “Islaw, Ang Pulis Bakawan” was produced that centered on mangroves of Las Piñas – Parañaque Wetland Park / LPPCHEA, one of the seven (7) sites in the Philippines designated Ramsar Convention as Wetlands of International Importance.
Objectives of the Project:
- To cultivate awareness of children on the importance of wetlands in the fight against climate change
- To promote understanding and appreciation of Philippine Ramsar sites or Wetlands of International Importance, specifically the Las Piñas- Parañaque Wetland Park
- To engage young minds in the protection and conservation of wetlands through a storytelling activity and a wetland walk around the Park
On 30 November 2019 at The Wave of the Las Piñas – Parañaque Wetland Park, the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW), in partnership with the Biodiversity Management Bureau, conducted a climate storytelling event featuring the story of “Islaw, Ang Pulis Bakawan”. This was in observance of the Climate Change Consciousness Week. Aiming to engage young minds in the appreciation, protection and conservation of wetlands, a number of activities was arranged for the participating children – short lectures, storytelling activity, games and a wetland walk around the park.
Organizer and partners –
