Environmental education

Environmental education plays a crucial role in raising awareness and training local populations and stakeholders on the protection and sustainable management of forests, particularly in the Congo Basin. This region, rich in biodiversity, is essential for the ecological and economic stability of Cameroon and the entire Central African region. Environmental education contributes to the promotion of sustainable natural resource management practices. By raising awareness among communities about the long-term economic benefits of sustainable forest management, it helps increase income through activities compatible with conservation, such as ecotourism and the sustainable harvesting of non-timber forest products (NTFPs). Forest conservation is deeply rooted in the cultural practices of many local communities.

Environmental education strengthens these practices by integrating modern knowledge of natural resource management. Educational programs can include modules on the cultural and traditional roles of forests, thus strengthening the link between communities and their environment.

The challenges of environmental education in the Eastern region of Cameroon include limited access to education: in rural areas, access to formal education, including environmental education, is often restricted. Conflicts of interest: Short-term economic interests, such as illegal logging, often conflict with the long-term conservation goals promoted by environmental education. By raising awareness and training IPLC, it promotes biodiversity conservation, sustainable economic development, and the well-being of populations.

To maximize its impact, it is crucial to overcome existing challenges and strengthen educational programs with adequate support and appropriate resources. This strategy will contribute not only to environmental protection but also to improving the quality of life of IPLC.