Rio+20 Portal

Best of Both Worlds

International Conference on Environmental Education (EE) and Sustainability: Challenges and Best Practices

Organised by: The University of South Africa

16-20 April 2012

Venue

ATKV Klein Kariba Resort, Bela-Bela, South Africa

Web address: www.klein-kariba.co.za

Keynote speakers will be:

• Prof Joy Palmer-Cooper: University of Durham in England
• Dr Jim Taylor: Wildlife and Environment Society of Southern Africa
• Prof Callie Loubser: University of South Africa

Speakers

Several other prominent and experienced speakers and Environmental Education (EE) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) specialists with vast experience in conducting EE and ESD will be featured in the Conference.

Introduction

The idea of a “best of both worlds” collaborative conference initially arose in Malaysia and South Africa and later received support from the United Kingdom. A common feature shared amongst these countries was their concerns relating to the vulnerability of their rich biodiversity, the historical-cultural links amongst the countries and the rapid changes that are occurring in the biophysical and social contexts in developing countries.

The convening of a FIFTH international Best of Both Worlds Conference is in support of the UN’s Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) initiative. Seven years into the Decade, this conference is as a forum for practitioners, teachers and those involved in education and communications to meet and share experiences in strengthening the framework for sustainable living. We would like to share experiences in networking particularly during this conference and learn about success stories in different workplaces.

Objectives

The primary objective of the Conference is to create an opportunity to share international and local experiences in establishing effective networks in environmental education (EE) and education for sustainabie Development (ESD). In addition, the Conference seeks to:

• showcase Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD) initiatives, achievements and challenges
• showcase DESD initiatives, progress and challenges
• reflect on DESD achievements and challenges to date

Call for Contributions

Individuals or organizations interested into making presentations are encouraged to forward their abstracts in English to the Secretariat by not later than 10 December 2011 (see website for requirements). We urge you to register online so that we can keep you updated with the latest news on the conference.

Who should attend.

The organisers would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to all practitioners of EE and ESD involved in school, tertiary or adult education. The conference seeks to engage educators, researchers, government officials, academicians, tour agents, protected areas and resource managers, decision / policy makers, property developers, NGOs and individuals involved in promoting environmental awareness and communications.

NB. Unfortunately the conference will be limited to 150 delegates.

Fees

Conference fees are available on the website but can alter due to sponsorships. We expect to be able to present an affordable conference.

If you require more information, please contact:

Conference Organiser:

Joann Kruger

Greensciwarriors

Tel: +27 12 329 5217

Cell: +27 76 231 7407

Fax: +27 86 642 1629

E-mail: joannkru(@)gmail.com

Website: www.unisa.ac.za/bestofbothworlds