wenty-seven students - scientists, engineers, social scientists, economists and management experts - from nine countries gathered in Manila in October 2005 for the inaugural Eco-Minds Asia-Pacific Forum. They were challenged by the four-day programme to come up with creative and practical uses of science and technology to tackle real-world problems in sustainable development, while emphasizing a multidisciplinary, international approach. They also had to predict the social impacts of the solutions they proposed, and to test their viability: the programme encourages consideration of socio-economic and cultural factors at all stages of development, alongside its primary focus on scientific and technical innovation.
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| Philippines President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo opens the inaugural Eco-Minds Asia-Pacific Forum. |
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Lectures were given by leading experts in science and technology, environment and business - including Professor Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the United Nations Millennium Project. These offered food for thought, helping delegates to refine their ideas about development and the environment. Said Leyla Acaroglu, from Australia, 'The lectures allowed us to develop a deeper understanding of the often conflicting views, motivations and agendas that arise when attempting to find positive solutions adhering to sustainable development.'
The group broke into teams of three - each representing different countries and areas of expertise - to work on a case study developed by Ateneo de Manila University. They were asked to help advise 'Tierra Verde', a hypothetical area in the Philippines, on a project to develop its resources while providing livelihoods for local residents: mineral water bottling, pineapple canning and shrimp farming were among the proposed industries. Each team chose a proposal to present to Tierra Verde's local government - represented by a panel of judges - on environmental protection, sustainability and social impact.
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| Bayer |
The third main component of the programme provided a breath of fresh air. Delegates were given jungle survival training in the pristine forests of Subic. 'It was an amazing experience that really proved that there are natural and simple ways of creating the things you need to survive,' said Leyla Acaroglu.
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| Delegates learn jungle survival skills. |
| Bayer |
This was the first of a series of biennial forums that will continue to give students opportunities to synthesize ideas and broaden their knowledge of sustainable development. 'Eco-Minds is an amazing approach to getting us to realize that sustainable development requires a multidisciplinary approach,' said Philippines delegate Gerard G. Dumancas. 'It is an holistic programme where each field is given equal importance.'
Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox, from UNEP, said, 'This Forum will help increase the momentum for creating a world in which the wishes of the founders of the United Nations are truly fulfilled.'
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