Our May 1st EarthEcho Youth Action Network convened young environmental leaders from around the world to explore the critical importance of restoration as a solution to address the climate crisis and protect our ocean planet. The session kicked-off with a welcome from Philippe Cousteau and members of our EarthEcho Youth Leadership Council, who emphasized the importance of restoration work as a key pillar of our OceanEcho 30x30 campaign. Youth Action Network members also had an opportunity to connect with each other while sharing stories of their efforts to lead events supporting the goal of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030.

Our Ocean Restoration and Resilience Panel brought together Tannia Cristina Frausto Illescas and Lisa Gilfillan of WILDCOAST and Shane Gallimore from the Coral Restoration to explore the impact and success of habitat restoration, and the role blue carbon ecosystems (such as marshes, mangroves, and seagrass) play in building resilience to climate change.

Through our Youth Action Network Lightning Talks, presented by Florencia Gonzalez (EarthEcho Youth Leadership Council member), Camille Rivera (Oceanus Conservation), Gianna Tomassini and Valentina Flores (EarthEcho Water Challenge Ambassadors), Priscila Bonilla (EarthEcho Youth Leadership Council member), and Johanna Flodin and Nadin Bayramova (Luanda International School), participants explored a global series of youth-driven coastal conservation and restoration programs, setting the stage for our expanding restoration work through the OceanEcho 30x30 campaign.

"The event was the most engaged I’ve been in a Zoom meeting all year. If you are interested in conservation, the ocean or the environment in general, these meet ups are so insightful and inspiring! It was amazing to talk to so many like minded youth and adults alike." - Johanna Flodin

Building on the connections and ideas shared through this event, participants wrapped up the day creating digital artwork and posters to explore and raise awareness about marine protected areas around the world.

A special thanks to our presenters, partners, sponsors, and Youth Action Network community for your participation in this event and dedication to protecting our ocean planet!

Want to get involved? Join our Youth Action Network Community and mark your calendar for our 2021 EarthEcho Youth Leadership Summit, August 6-8, 2021!

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