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Indonesian 
Asparaga, Gorontalo Regency – On Thursday, August 31 2023, Bondula Village, Asparaga District, Gorontalo Regency witnessed real efforts to fulfill global environmental protection commitments through local action. The socialization event for programs and activities of The GEF Small Grants Program (SGP-GEF) in collaboration with the Institute for Research, Development of Community Service (LP3M) at Gorontalo University succeeded in creating inspiring momentum.
With the support of SGP-GEF grant funds, LP3M Gorontalo University has started a Community Empowerment and Sustainable Agriculture Program in the SM Nantu and Tahura BJ Habibie conservation forest buffer zones. This program will last for 18 months in the two villages of Bondula and Bihe Village, which act as buffer villages for this important conservation area. The aim is to increase participation in sustainable forest and land management in the buffer zone of conservation areas, with a focus on protecting and preserving biodiversity in the conservation forests of the Nantu Wildlife Reserve (WR) and the BJ. Habibie Forest Park (Tahura).
The socialization of this program involved discussions between participants and representatives from LP3M Gorontalo University. The local village head said, “We are very enthusiastic about this collaboration and are confident that the LP3M UG activity program will make a significant contribution to protecting the village environment. “The spirit and enthusiasm felt at this socialization event gives great hope that global environmental problems can be overcome effectively through responsible local community action.”
This program not only creates a real opportunity to protect the local environment, but is also an inspiring example of how local action can be an important part of the global effort to protect our planet. In an era where environmental issues are increasingly pressing, the University of Gorontalo and its LP3M have paved the way towards a more sustainable and greener future.
Through strong collaboration between academic institutions, village governments, and local communities, this program offers hope for us all. May their efforts inspire similar efforts around the world in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.
The message to be taken from this event is that we all have an important role to play in protecting the planet. With strong local action, we can achieve the global goal of preserving our beautiful natural environment.
