On February 4, 2024, ASEZ WAO volunteers in Middletown, CT, hosted an Environmental Forum to shed light on global environmental issues, specifically focusing on the impact of plastics on our planet.
The forum kicked off with an ASEZ WAO intro video, offering a glimpse into its initiatives. A special choir performance followed, featuring the song “Mother’s Forest,” which draws attention to deforestation and promotes participation in the Mother’s Forest Project. This project aims to plant 7 billion trees, with each person worldwide planting one tree.
The event also showcased ASEZ WAO’s No More GPGP initiative, addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution on marine life and proposing solutions to prevent the further expansion of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which currently holds over 1.8 trillion pieces of plastics.
Local Expert Support for ASEZ WAO’s Efforts
Dr. Kat Owens, a respected figure from the University of Hartford, shared insights into how plastics are impacting the planet and marine ecosystems. She highlighted her innovative use of discarded wrappers and packaging to create impactful artwork.
Dr. Owens commended ASEZ WAO volunteers for their efforts in raising awareness and engaging with various stakeholders. “You are doing so much already by sharing information; you meet with municipalities, governments, and community groups. I believe that you are taking all the right steps, so continue on this path that you are on.” She added, “If we work together, we can accomplish more. Knowing that you are not alone and that there are other people working to make things better fortifies us.”
The event also featured a panel discussion and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Dr. Owens and local politician Kenneth Trice. Their signatures symbolized their shared commitment to tackling the challenges of climate change in collaboration with ASEZ WAO.
Educational Workshops and Interactive Activities
After the presentations and closing remarks, attendees participated in educational workshops. These included recycling games, plant propagation sessions, and a hands-on “plastic whale” activity, engaging participants in meaningful ways to address environmental concerns.
ASEZ WAO firmly believes in the power of partnerships. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” ASEZ WAO emphasizes that progress made by a group of ten people outweighs the efforts of ten individuals working alone. That’s why ASEZ WAO is dedicated to establishing a global network for the sustainable development of humanity and the planet as a whole.
To see more activities from volunteers in Connecticut, visit our Activities page!
6 Responses
Joining this event was really insightful.
I have never seen a church that cares as much as the Church of God about the environment around us.
This was a great event. Through this event the city started to use disposal bags base on waste and recycle. Great outcome.
This event was exceptional and by far one of my favorite forums I have participated in. I learned a great deal about the negative effects plastics have on our ecosystem, especially in our oceans. I was also deeply moved by the guest speaker, Dr. Owens. Her determination to help protect the environment is truly motivating, and it has inspired me to do my part in reducing plastic waste. Thank you to the Church of God for shedding light on this important global issue.
As I listened to this very important forum, I was shocked to actually see the harm and sad reality that plastic has caused to animals. Learning tips and tricks to make the environment better and safe has really allowed me and my family to participate more in cleanups and trying to minimize waste. Thank you ASEZ WAO for sharing the knowledge that can save lives and preserve our planet. I have learned so much and cannot wait for the next event!
I joined this activity and I can say that I was so happy and so excited to learn how much damage we do to our ecosystem by not separating the garbage properly like plastic ,papers ,glass and food sometimes we just throw everything and all this is ending in our oceans.
Now I recycle ♻️ everything and all this is just because I atend the church of God where we don’t only do Religious things but also glorified God through our actions for climate change
Thank you ASEZ WAO members for doing a great job in this event I look forward to participate in the next event ♥️😊👍
I remember having the opportunity to attend this forum, and it was extremely impactful…something very hard to forget. I did not realize the extent of the impact plastic pollution has on our environment. Learning about ASEZWAO’s No More GPGP project made me aware that this is truly a serious issue. I’m almost embarrassed to say that I didn’t realize plastic never fully degrades. I was especially shocked by the video showing a straw stuck in a turtle’s nose. It hurt my heart to see how something so small could have such a great impact.
It made me reflect on how careless habits can negatively affect others in ways we may not even realize, including the fact that plastic can end up in our food. There was so much information to take in. However, in the end, I left feeling hopeful and empowered, knowing what I can do differently. Not only do I continue to volunteer with ASEZWAO on their projects, but I also keep upcycling ideas in mind, as shown by Dr. Owens. Overall, the experience was very insightful and impactful, and I hope to participate in something like this again very soon. I also hope that more people will get involved, as the work ASEZWAO does is truly making a difference both personally and globally.