The Big Biodiversity Challenge is back – Learners Tackle Biodiversity Crisis in Provincial Competition
The Western Cape Environmental Education Friends (WCEEF), together with members CapeNature, SANBI, Nature Connect, SANParks, Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town, The Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA) and the Two Oceans Aquarium, is thrilled to announce the return of its successful competition for children in grades 6 – 9.
The Big Biodiversity Challenge was launched during May, which is especially fitting, as the month is widely recognised as Biodiversity Month – a time dedicated to raising awareness and action for the protection of our natural world. With the International Day for Biological Diversity falling on 22 May, the timing of the competition aligns perfectly with global efforts to spotlight the annual theme for 2025, “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”. This year’s theme emphasises the urgent need to align human progress with the protection and restoration of the natural world. It highlights a call to action for all stakeholders to make choices that benefit both people and the environment, building a future where both can thrive together.
The competition calls on students to submit projects that offer solutions to any of the many threats facing biodiversity. These solutions can take the form of a scientific project, creative arts project or social project. The goal is to encourage critical thinking and creativity in addressing issues such as the unsustainable use of natural resources, climate change and habitat loss – challenges that directly impact the health of our ecosystems. The theme encourages entrants to explore practical, nature-based solutions that support both environmental protection and human well-being.
The competition is open to all schools in the Western Cape and submissions can be made individually or in pairs. Participants will have the chance to win exciting prizes. Winners will be announced at the 43rd annual EEASA Conference, which will take place between 16 and 19 September this year.
As the implementing agent of the WCEEF, we are excited to join forces with the incredible and diverse members of this forum in bringing this competition to the learners of the Western Cape. What makes it even more special this year is the unique opportunity for these young champions to showcase their work on an international stage, and that kind of exposure is not only inspiring, but life changing.
All students in grade 6 – 9 are encouraged to participate and it is recommended that teachers motivate their students to enter this competition and become part of the movement to protect biodiversity. For more information email Munzhedzi.Muhanelwa@sanparks.org or ndreyer@capenature.co.za
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