We took so much away from the Activate Oceans Conference. We learned some very influential facts about the oceans, such as one billion people (a seventh of the world’s population) depend on the ocean for survival. We also came out of the conference with a new passion to support preserve and protect life below water and support SDG #14. Instead of using plastic bags, try to use a reusable bag. By choosing to reuse and recycle, you’re not only saving the lives of innocent animals but also helping the lives of a billion people.
Once we returned to Washington, D.C., we had a meeting and shared ideas to bring more awareness to the SDGs in our schools and shared ideas on what we can do in our community to help solve not only SDG #14 but others as well. A few of our ideas included a play for primary students to teach them what the SDGs are and how they can help, possibly petition to try and make recycling easier for schools, and reuse our old uniforms and clothes to make reusable bags.
As a result of our trip to UNICEF, we were then invited to attend a presentation by Mahmoud Mohieldin, Senior Vice President, of the 2030 Development Agenda, United Nations and Partnerships at the World Bank. During this presentation, we learnt about how the World Bank is working alongside the United Nations to support the achievement of the SDGs in developing countries through collection of data, financial support and implementation of projects.
We are really looking forward to the next school year to see our ideas and inspirations become a reality as we work together to do our part towards achieving the SDGs by 2030!