Brahma Kumaris at COP28 – Faith and Sustainability 3-4 Dec. 2023
Faith and Sustainability 3-4 Dec. 2023
Brahma Kumaris at COP28 – Talanoa Dialogue – 30 November 2023
Informal Interfaith Gathering in the Spirit of Talanoa Dialogue at COP28
Report – Leading up to the UN Climate Change Conference COP28, UAE
COP28 Report date 30th Nov. to 12th Dec. 2023
Rising to the Climate Emergency – Brahma Kumaris at COP28
U.A.E. will host the 28th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai 30th Nov – 12th Dec 2023
Eco Newsletter, Nov 2023, Issue 9
Just as a lizard under attack has the ability to shed and regrow its tail, are we able to let go of destructive practices and restore the web of life which human activity has exploited and knocked out of balance?…
World Food Day 2023
Celebrating World Food Day 2023 Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind. An inspiring in-depth interview celebrating World Food Day. Sister Jayanti and Dr Vandana Shiva share their wisdom and experience in a rich and beautiful conversation, exploring the connection between water, food, and life.
Panel discussion themed ‘Climate Wisdom from COP28’
As we collectively address the pressing issues surrounding our planet’s future, the Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative is privileged to invite you to our LIVE panel discussion themed ‘Climate Wisdom from COP28’.
Regeneration of Grasslands in Bharapar, India
Grasslands cover approximately twenty five percent of the Earth’s land surface and contain roughly twelve percent of the terrestrial carbon stocks. These ecosystems are mainly found in regions where there is a scarcity of water and not enough regular rainfall to support the growth of forests. There are different types of grasslands – ranging from…
Helping the Bush
by Jessica Yuille, Coordinator of the Blue Mountains Retreat Centre, Australia In Australia the Brahma Kumaris are fortunate to have four Retreat Centres all with varying amounts of beautiful natural bush and native animals. As custodians of these areas we do our best to care for them. This can mean leaving them alone but…
Africa Climate Summit, Nairobi, Kenya
Sisters Pratibha and Urvashi attended the Africa Climate Summit. It was a great opportunity to meet many dignitaries. Over 20 heads of State and hundreds of delegates including members of the diplomatic community, ordinary farmers and members of the indigenous communities also attended.
BK Philippines Service News “Soul-utions to Plastic Pollution” In Observance of UN Environment Day
BK Philippines Service News “Soul-utions to Plastic Pollution” In Observance of UN Environment Day
Malaysia: Report on Climate Change Public Forum
Malaysia: Report on Climate Change Public ForumTheme: Reversibility of Climate Change – The Missing Dimension 23rd July 2023 Sunday 6.00 pm to 8.30 pm, Bangsar
SB58 Climate Conference 2023, Side event
Deliver Climate Action – Support a Robust Global Stock Take from a Human Rights and Ethical Perspective The SB58 Side Event held in Bonn aimed to discuss climate action and the importance of a robust Global Stock Take (GST) from a human rights and ethical standpoint. The event took place on Monday, 5th June. …
SB58 Climate Conference 2023 Report 3
The Brahma Kumaris delegates participated in the daily coordination meeting of RINGO- the Research and Independent Non-Governmental Organizations (RINGO), a constituency to the UN framework convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC),in which the Brahma Kumaris is a member. Read more ..
The way to happiness through de-cluttering
Balancing the urge to acquire possessions against the desire to live simply is part of an eternal, never-ending debate. These days, has materialism become the dominant ‘religion’? Covid-19 has offered us the time and opportunity to de-clutter. The question is: Have we used it well? During the pandemic last year, I found I could not…
SB58 Climate Conference 2023 Report 2
The Brahma Kumaris delegates participated in the daily coordination meeting of RINGO- the Research and Independent Non-Governmental Organizations (RINGO), a constituency to the UN framework convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC),in which the Brahma Kumaris is a member. Read more ..
SB58 Climate Conference 2023 Report 1
The Brahma Kumaris delegates participated in the daily coordination meeting of RINGO- the Research and Independent Non-Governmental Organizations (RINGO), a constituency to the UN framework convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC),in which the Brahma Kumaris is a member. Read more ..
Eco Newsletter, June 2023, Issue 8
Hold a seed in your hand, try to feel the life that it contains within itself. It’s amazing to realise that what I hold in my hands, this humble little seed, is the source of life for us all. A seed is like an embryo, a unit of life that is nurtured by water and the strength of the sunlight. It is also nourished by the richness and accommodation of the soil and all the microorganisms within the soil.
Brahma Kumaris celebrating World Environment Day, 2023
World Environment Day Om Shanti, warm and heartfelt greetings to all. June 5th is World Environment Day! Please accept an invitation for all Baba’s Centres to host a public event or BK activity to celebrate this day and add spiritual vibrations to the healing of the land, the waters, the air and the environment that…
Golden Era Eco Service – collaboration project
Golden Era Eco Services was formed to fulfil one purpose – service to Mother Nature and the global community. We use ancient wisdom & experiences & techniques from permaculture with pure vibration to create most self-sustaining natural ecosystems. Learn more about Golden Era Eco Service
Planting Seeds for a Better World
“The earth yields resources to be shared, conserved and used sustainably……. In the freedom of the seed lies the hope and potential for a better world; and in each of us lie the seeds of our deepest and highest humanity, which comes from returning to our membership of the earth family” – Vandana Shiva, scientist…
EARTH DAY 2023
PEACE@SUNRISE
Sharing Peace Love Gratitude and Hope
As the sun rises worldwide, people of all faiths and of all backgrounds will awaken and arise in prayer or meditation with the dawn. We will be united in our homes and sacred places. At the Brahma Kumaris, we invite you to join our experienced Rajyogis in Sharing Peace, Love and Hope for all life forms. We will celebrate Earth Day by sharing our gratitude for mother earth.
Seeds of Change.
A documentary presenting the approach, commitment and activities of the Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative. The current environmental emergency is a clear call to transform our awareness and lifestyle. The Brahma Kumaris Environmental aims to encourage all of us to feel that we are guardians of the Earth’s resources. As a spiritual organisation our main aim…
Eco Newsletter, February 2023, Issue 7
Many would argue that the world is in a state of degradation, despite the advancements in technology. However, the proof of this lies in the rapid rate by which land is being degraded worldwide. The impacts of land degradation will be felt by most of the world’s population. The two major challenges are soil erosion and desertification.
Last chance to protect the web of life?
Biodiversity is the web of life – what may be termed a worldwide nature web – of which human beings are an integral part. It encompasses life forms from the tiniest micro-organisms to the largest mammals, on and in the earth, in water, in air. There has long been concern at the loss of species…
A holistic approach to nature
The Brahma Kumaris at COP15 – a Holistic Approach to Nature At the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15), progress remained slow and divisions among negotiators difficult to bridge. But the Brahma Kumaris (BKs), often working in collaboration with faith based organisations (FBOs), kept true to their stance that…
Facing the Challenges of our Rapidly Changing World
Global Co-operation House hosted a contribution to the Great Big Green Week: Facing the Challenges of our Rapidly Changing World. The speakers were two spiritual leaders: Maureen Goodman, Canon Giles Goddard and two scientists: Professor James Mair, Dr Thomas Bruhn.
Tree plantation by Rajyoga centers in Hong Kong
50 Trees planted by the Brahma Kumaris in Hong Kong as a part of the Environment Outreach initiative.
BIO COP15 Report 4: December 15-19, 2022
The 15th of December was a busy service day for the BK delegation at the CBD COP15 in Montreal, as well as for many ministers and heads of international organizations who lined up for the opening of the high-level segment. In the high-level segment, the COP President, Huang Runique, Minister of Ecology and Environment of China, welcomed delegates and announced the participation of 126 ministers and 77 deputy ministerial representatives from 140 parties as well as 60 heads of international organizations.
BIO COP15 Report 3: December 12-14, 2022
As the Un Biodiversity Conference COP15 entered its second and final week, negotiation streams multiplied and intensified. The flow of participants increased noticeably in negotiating rooms but also in spaces hosting side-events and the Rio Conventions Pavilion.
The Brahma Kumaris delegation being a member of Multigaigh Group for Biodiversity had a busy week ahead.
BIO COP15 Report 2: December 9-11, 2022
The Brahma Kumaris delegation entered the 3rd day of the UN Biodiversity Conference COP15 in Montreal. It was another busy day, negotiations in UN CBD COP15 showed signs of progress. Many wondered, however, whether the pace is fast enough to make it to the finish line on time. Deliberations on the global biodiversity framework (GBF) bore some results, although incessant disagreements on its goals indicate that parties’ visions on the future of global biodiversity governance still differ.
BIO COP15 Report 1: December 6-8, 2022
Biodiversity, the variety of all life on earth, is being lost at an alarming rate. Ecosystems, from forests and deserts to freshwater and oceans, are in steep decline. One million plant and animal species are threatened with extinction. Genetic diversity is disappearing.
Click here for a full report
Awakening A Flourishing Future
Statement of Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU) to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Conference of Parties (COP15)
December 7-19 2022, Montreal Canada
From Scarcity to Prosperity: Brahma Kumaris at the UN Convention to Combat Desertification COP15 in Abidjan
The UNCCD COP15 (United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification – 15th Conference of Parties) theme was ‘Land. Life. Legacy: From scarcity to prosperity’ and it took place in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire from 9 to 20 May 2022. It was a call to action to ensure land, the lifeline on this planet, continues to benefit present and future generations. It drew nearly 7,000 participants, including heads of state, ministers, delegates from the UNCCD’s 196 Parties and the European Union, as well as members of the private sector, civil society, women, youth leaders, and media.
COP27 High Lights – A spiritual message of hope and resilience
The Brahma Kumaris (BK) delegation, led by Maureen Goodman, rose energetically to the challenge of communicating hope and resilience in a time of climate emergency at November’s COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, even as the civil society participation was more restricted than at Glasgow in 2021. Our multinational team, drawn from countries in the Arabian…
Event Calendar UN Biodiversity COP15 in Montreal
The Brahma Kumaris and Biodiversity at CEPA Fair Virtual Exhibition:
The Brahma Kumaris and Biodiversity @ CBD.int
Daily reflections and meditations will be organised at Multifaith Pavilion COP155
Untied Nation Convention on Biological Diversity COP15 in Montreal, Canada, 7-19 December 2022
From December 7-19, 2022, at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference, chaired by China in Montreal’s Palais des Congrès, representatives from across the globe are being called on to finalize and approve measures to arrest the dangerous, ongoing loss of terrestrial and marine biodiversity and set humanity on a path to a sustainable relationship with nature…
This is my Now!
Wherever we are in the world, the outcome of the COP27 meeting these past two weeks in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, will disappoint many of us. Even so, examples of quiet strength and conviction emerged. Faith-based organisations, present throughout, spoke up for first principles: climate justice, human rights, finance for the suffering. They discussed practical steps,…
Sixth Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP27
COP27 Report date 16th Nov. to 18th Nov. 2022
Faith-based Organisations: Speaking up for Humanity and the Earth
Well into the second week of the latest COP meeting and certainty is as elusive as ever. An air of mystery around the negotiations is amplified by some prevarication in public by officials, no doubt due in part to the pressure of discussions going right down to the wire. Then, the vocabulary is mind-bending, even…
Fifth Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP27
COP27 Report date 14th Nov. to 15th Nov. 2022
Fourth Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP27
COP27 Report date 11th Nov. to 12th Nov. 2022
Building Trust, Leading Transformation
Amid the hustle and bustle, the negotiations and the disagreements of a UN Climate Conference, there are spaces where open-hearted dialogue and quiet reflection, including meditation, take place.
Raising their Voice: Young People at COP27
The young generation steps forward to call for comprehensive action to secure their future and save the Earth
When will we learn?
History, and taking the long view, was woven into the fabric of the opening session of the COP27 meeting, Monday 7th November, in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt.
Delivering the promise: How to ensure future adaptation needs are addressed.
Date/Time: Fri, 11.11.2022, 11.30-13.00 COP27 Side Event Delivering the promise: How to ensure future adaptation needs are addressed. Urgent action is required to close the prevailing adaptation finance gap and deliver finance to communities where it is needed most. While scaled up finance that matches the scale of adaptation needs is required, much remains to be…
COP27 Press conference
Date/Time: Fri, 11.11.2022, 10:00-10:30 COP27 Press conference Core values and ethical principles for climate action – Maureen Goodman, Brahma Kumaris – Programme Director UK, and Representative to UN, Vienna Golo Pilz, Brahma Kumaris Adviser Renewable Energy Thomas Hirsch, Founding Director Climate & Development Advice Germany Venue: Press Conference Room Luxor, Taba Area, Blue zone
Rising to the Climate Emergency – Brahma Kumaris at COP27
Egypt will host the 27th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh on 6–18 November 2022.
Eco Newsletter, October 2022, Issue 6
We live on a blue planet. The name is misleading, we call it Earth, yet over 70% of its surface is covered by the ocean. It is the Blue Marble as in the beautiful image taken by astronauts in 1972. Sometimes we forget how essential the ocean is for the water we drink, the air we breathe, the food we eat, for life. The ocean is the biggest ecosystem on the planet, holding 99% of all habitable space in the world, it contains 94% of the world’s wildlife and 97% of all the water. It is responsible for at least 50% of the oxygen on Earth. The ocean is a major factor in the water cycle that affects climate and weather. It controls rainfall and droughts. Without this process, most of our planet would be an icy desert. The ocean is our biggest ally in the fight against climate change. It is responsible for absorbing 25-50% of the carbon dioxide humans have released into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels. Scientists have determined that the ocean absorbs more than 90% of the excess heat, which is attributed to greenhouse gas emissions.
Water Conservation and Recycling at the BK Campuses in Rajasthan
The headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, welcomes around 300,000 visitors every year to its 3 campuses, the largest of which is Shantivan situated in Abu Road. Thirty two thousand people can be accommodated at any one time and they often stay for 3 to 4 days in order to attend spiritual retreats, conferences and workshops, including ones to raise environmental awareness. The water requirements are therefore massive and include providing cold water for drinking and cooking, water for bathing, water for the Hospital and water for gardening.
Brahma Kumaris celebrating World Environment Day, India 2022
Across India, Brahma Kumaris centres celebrated World Environment Day with great enthusiasm. Many hundreds of people were taught new ideas about protecting the environment. A photo report was prepared of the events.
Kalp Taruh
Kalp Taruh is a key plantation project cum mechanism By Brahma Kumaris to ensure land restoration and promote higher order values for building a better civilized society and support many of the UN SDGs.
Know More (Kalp Taruh website)
Water Conservation and Recycling Report, Mount Abu, India
For conserving rainwater Brahma Kumaris has built reservoirs at its headquarters campuses and in the nearby places of Abu Road. Besides this, all the major center buildings of India have proper underground water harvesting units.
In the Spirit of the Talanoa Dialogue Report
In the Spirit of the Talanoa Dialogue – Building Trust and Respect with Planet and Community was held on Saturday 3rd July 2022 at Global Cooperation House in London. This was a hybrid event, in partnership with Faith for the Climate, offered as a contribution to London Climate Action Week with a special focus on Africa, on the road to COP27.
Peace Drops for the Great Green Wall
Peace Drops for the Great Green Wall, a Meditation Initiative
Please join us on the second Sunday of each month at 2 pm GMT for English and 6 pm GMT for French program, on YT BKEnvironment and FB EcoBrahmaKumaris.
Save our Ocean, Protect our Future, Ocean2022
Save our Ocean, Protect our Future
2022 UN Ocean Conference Lisbon, Portugal, 27 June – 1 July 2022
The Second United Nations Ocean Conference will take place from 27 June to 1 July 2022, at the Lisbon Altice Arena Convention Center.
Eco Newsletter, June 2022, Issue 5
I grew up in an iron ore mining town in northern Canada. I grew up knowing that food was purchased at the grocery store. I then worked in community development in Canada, Africa and Asia and learned food actually comes from the land. From the land, and the farmers and harvesters, transporters, processors, wholesalers, retailers and all the others involved in the food system. To enjoy food there is also a chain of cooking, eating and disposing of waste. And, when we think about it, there is a huge global, industrial system of food production and consumption based on geo-political relationships, energy consumption, using chemical fertilisers, pesticides and preservatives, financial subsidies, corporate profits, seed patents, land ownership … and as much as 35% of production goes to waste! Food is a complicated issue!
Report Stockholm +50, UN Conference 2-3 June 2022
Stockholm+50 conference commemorates the first United Nations Conference in 1972 on the Human Environment and celebrates 50 years of global environmental action. By recognizing the importance of collaboration in tackling the Earth’s triple planetary crisis – climate, nature, and pollution – the international meeting aimed to drive action toward a healthy planet for the prosperity of all.
Read more
Report Stockholm +50, Inner Transformation, Sustainable Lives
This year marks 50 years since the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, a seminal event in creating awareness and promoting action to combat the degradation of the Earth and natural resources.
2nd Service Report Brahma Kumaris at UNCCD COP 15 Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire (the Ivory Coast)
The second and final week of UNCCD COP15 in Abidjan was a time for creating friends of the Earth among COP delegates and anyone caring for the land, who came in contact with Brahma Kumaris. There were number of gatherings within and outside COP15 venue, such as an informal get together, COP15 Reception, side event and dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire. These formed a platform to share our inside – out approach to healing the land and creating prosperity. Another highlight was the amazing Great Green Wall that became an inspiration for a new meditation project.
1st Service Report Brahma Kumaris at UNCCD COP 15 Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire (the Ivory Coast)
The Brahma Kumaris is accredited to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and is particpating in the 15th Conference of Parties (COP) taking place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire from 9 to 20 May 2022. The BK delegation is active in the CSO platform, contributing to various Thematic Working Groups, attending COP15 plenary sessions and side events with the aim of exploring and further understanding challanges related to land restoration, droughts and desertifcation. We bring to these discussions the knowlege of role of consciousness in all aspects and offer practical examples and solutions.
Stockholm+50 Conference
Stockholm+50 will commemorate the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment and celebrate 50 years of global environmental action. Join the Brahma Kumaris Environment team in two associated events.
1 June: Healthy mind, Healthy planet | 2 June: Shift in Mindset
UNCCD Africa COP15
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) COP15 Conference is taking place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from 9 to 20 May 2022. Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative is sending a delegation to address the theme: ‘Land. Life. Legacy: From scarcity to prosperity’, a call to action to ensure land, the lifeline on this planet, continues to benefit present and future generations.
Progress Report on “India one”, Solar Thermal Power Plant
“India One” is a 1 MW electrical Solar Thermal Power Plant with 16 hrs thermal energy storage allowing for round the clock operation. This captive power plant supplies power to Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road, Rajasthan with total capacity of 25,000 people.
Water management with Rajyoga
Water management with Rajyoga. Water is precious, Life could not exist without it.
COY 16 – The United Nations Conference of Youth prior COP 26
COY 16, which took place from 28th – 31st October 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland was facilitated by YOUNGO, the official children and youth constituency of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Food Care Initiative – BKEI
This toolkit is a resource of information and activities to guide your participation in and contribution to the Brahma Kumaris Food Care Initiative. You are warmly invited to select any aspect which interests you. The toolkit can be used for personal development or to help you design and implement events for youth and adults in your city or country.
Eco Newsletter, January 2022, Issue 4
The state of the planet is broken. We must stop our war on nature. Making peace with nature is the defining task of the 21st century. Food systems are one of the main reasons why we are failing to stay within our planet’s ecological boundaries” Antonio Guterres – Secretary-General of The United Nations
Welcome to our January Newsletter. In this edition, we are focusing on how we can restore our sacred relationship with the Earth particularly in relation to how we produce our food.
David Fletcher’s interview
David Fletcher puts the case for returning to more traditional forms of growing and preparing food so as to restore our sacred relationship with the land. David Fletcher has been a community development educator and researcher for over 30 years. He has had the opportunity to work with and learn from indigenous people in Africa,…
Launch Event of Eco Champions Ghana
The Ghana Wing of the Global BK Eco Initiative was launched on 8th December 2021 by the Accra BK Center as ‘Eco-Champions Ghana.’ The official launch was a two-hour long ceremony, including a panel discussion and networking session, at a quaint Coffee Shop named Theia House, with over 50 people in attendance, from various sectors ranging from agriculture, micro-farming, to waste recycling, energy and oil, holistic wellbeing and health, among many others. The owner of the venue, Lana Captan, graciously gave us the space free of cost.
Parks created and managed by Brahma Kumaris
Gardens promote physical health, mental health through relaxation and satisfaction. It can provide a harmonious space to relax, unwind, reflect and restore ourselves. BKs believe and follow cleanliness inside and outside. They are keenly interested in Environmental Health issues and offer lasting spiritual solutions to world problems. BKs have been entrusted with creating and maintaining a number of parks across the country.
Climate change – The Hidden Solution
In a paper entitled Underestimating the Challenges of Avoiding a Ghastly Future, CJA Bradshaw and his co-writers observed that there was a general consensus on what needs to be done to prevent a 6th extinction but no consensus on how to do it. Bradshaw points out that many ambitious targets have been set over the…
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 11th-13th November 2021
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 11th-13th Nov. 2021 – Glasgow, Scotland
COP26 – A new generation takes the baton
After weeks of work preparing for COP26, culminating in an intense fortnight of activities in Glasgow, the Brahma Kumaris delegation has left Scotland to return home. They stayed in the beautiful rural surroundings of Linlithgow, making the daily round trip into the city mostly by public transport. Logistical support was provided by the BKs of…
UN Climate Change Conference COP2 : Climate engagement: From protests to play
As negotiations in Glasgow went down to the wire in week two of COP26, civil society organizations presented a rich programme of events to communicate their vision for meaningful action.
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 9th-10th November 2021
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 9th-10th Nov. 2021 – Glasgow, Scotland
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 7th-9th November 2021
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 7th-9th Nov. 2021 – Glasgow, Scotland.
Raising their voices, calling for justice
A recurring theme – and social media meme – surrounding COP26 is how far the concerns of ordinary people are being heard. Cries of “greenwashing” are getting louder.
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 5th-6th November 2021
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26
5th-6th Nov. 2021Glasgow, Scotland
“India One” – a model of co-operation in renewables
COP26 Report 3 5.11.21, “India One” – a model of co-operation in renewables
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 2 – 4 November 2021
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 2nd– 4thNov. 2021Glasgow, Scotland
Calling for a Nature-Positive World
Faith and spiritual leaders yesterday formally called on politicians and negotiators at COP26 to step up to the plate and deliver on pledges made at Paris in 2015 as well as prioritise the transition to a just and green economy.
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, 26 – 32 October, 1 November 2021
After 2 years of pause due to Corona, the UN Climate Conference COP 26 is finally taking place in Glasgow,Scotland. Almost 25,000 delegates, 200 ministers and heads of states, and most importantly the Brahma Kumaris delegation headed by Sister Jayanti, are coming together to find solutions to the emerging climate disaster.
Digital Green Zone : Virtual exhibition
We are delighted to inform you that the Digital Green Zone is now live on Google Arts and Culture. Explore our Digital Green Zone and Virtual Exhibition to view the work of Brahma kumaris for Environment. #COP26 #togetherforourplanet. https://artsandculture.google.com/story/FQVx9zmG-M0i8w
COP26 Report
COP26 Climate Talks Open in Scotland, As world leaders gather for COP26 in Glasgow, representatives of faith and spiritual groups step up to speak for the unheard.
COP26 Lead up report
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26, Leading-up to Glasgow, Scotland.
Eco Newsletter, Oct 2021, Issue 3
The Brahma Kumaris in Australia is fortunate to have four Retreat Centres; two just out of Sydney – ‘Leura’ in the Blue Mountains and ‘Wilton’ in the Southern Highlands, and two just out of Melbourne, ‘Baxter’ on the Mornington Peninsula and ‘Yarra Valley’ a recently ‘acquired’ beautiful boutique Retreat Centre in the Yarra Valley.
ILC Webinar
A webinar organised by the Interfaith Liaison Committee (ILC) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
Inspired Faith Action Towards COP26
Read more, Monday 27 September | 10:00-11:30 AM CEST
Read more, Monday 27 September | 17:00-18:30 PM CEST
A Meditation for UN Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
A Meditation for UN Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
Tuesday, 7 September 6.00 – 6.30 pm (AEST) ONLINE on YouTube
Link: http://tiny.cc/
Environment day celebration in India
Environment day celebration in India, Celebrating eternal bond with nature, celebrating awareness and action.
Yogis For Future
You and the BK Green Community are invited to the Pre-Launch of Yogis For Future. We welcome your feedback and ideas before the launch on Dadis Day 25th Aug.
LCOY Report UAE 2021
Brahma Kumaris celebrating World Environment Day, India 2021
Brahma Kumaris celebrating World Environment Day, India 2021
Across India, Brahma Kumaris centres celebrated World Environment Day with great enthusiasm. Many hundreds of people were taught new ideas about protecting the environment. A photo report was prepared of the events.
Rising to the Climate Emergency – Brahma Kumaris UK 2021 (COP26)
The UK will host the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow on 1–12 November 2021. The COP26 summit will bring parties together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The UK is committed to working with all countries and joining forces with civil society, companies and people on the frontline of climate change to inspire climate action ahead of COP26.
Green Newsletter September 2020
Welcome to Green News of September 2020 for the worldwide BK community.
- See the report and photos.
World Environment Day 2021
Dear Nature, 12 days festival celebrating eternal bond with nature In support of the UN decade of Ecological restoration. Reimagine, Recreate, Restore…it all starts with Realise, Review and Relive Invitation to everyone to participate in the 11 days various activities, enriched with 11 brilliant talks from Great leaders and Local Heros creating Global Impacts…
The Healing Force of Ahimsa
Ahimsa is an ancient philosophy. Sometimes described as ‘non-violence towards all life’, it is in fact a deeply felt way of being, in which we are able to experience the living energy of other life forms. It comes to us from a different time, a time when we had a deep connection with nature. Of…
Eco Newsletter, May 2021, Issue 2
The springtime in the Celtic tradition is called the return of the solar energy when the sun starts to gather warmth and stimulates the new creation within the soil, a process which begins to unfold in January. The Solar energy or the fire element needs to combine with Mother Earth for the creation.
Earth Day 2021
April 22nd is celebrated as Earth Day and the theme this year is ‘Restore Our Earth’. Watch Sister Jayanti in conversation with environmentalist Dr Vandana Shiva, moderated by Br. Srinidhi. April 22nd, 7.30 pm to 9.00 pm IST
ECO Yogis
In celebration of nature, and encompassing Mother Earth Day (22 April) and Environment Day (5 June), we invite you to join in on 7 special conversations with some members of the International Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative team where we will harvest their experiences, ideas and perspectives about nature, the environment and the work they do. bit.ly/ecoyogis
Tree Planting Program by Agriculture & Rural Development Wing
The Rural Development Wing also started to celebrate the annual World Environment Day in 2016 when hundreds of centres arrange environment awareness campaigns and tree plantation events each year.
Tree Planting at Solar Power Plant India-One
at Brahma Kumaris Spiritual Headquarters, Abu Road, Rajasthan, India
The tree plantation at India-One restores bio-diversity, absorbs carbon and prevents dust on the large 60m2solar plates. India-One Solar Plant became operational in 2017, and the tree planting started long before, in 2010. More than 3000 trees of approximately 45 varieties have been planted. These trees absorb about 42tonnes of CO2 per year.
Trees are showing the way
Trees Are Showing the Way, How to change the hardest thing to change – the human heart.
The aim of environmental work is to figure out collectively how we can return to a mentality of taking care of the natural systems that sustain us. In order to do this we need to rapidly move into a phase of giving back to the world around us more than we take from it.
LCOY Australia Report
A brief report of the LCOY Australia 2021 program, Friday 5 – Sunday 7 February.
Faith for Earth Councilors : Capacity Building and Development program
New Delhi, 17th March; A meeting of high-level faith-based organizations from the Hindu community was held yesterday at UN House, New Delhi to seek synergies between the ongoing work of many faith institutions and the vision of UNEP as part of the Faith for Earth Councilors Program.
Urgently Addressing Climate Change as a Human Rights Issue
An event offered by the Geneva Interfaith Forum on Climate Change, Environment and Human Rights (GIF) on the occasion of the 46th Session of the UN Human Rights Council.
Concept Note
Urgently Addressing Climate Change as a Human Rights Issue – Small Island States, Indigenous Peoples, Youth and Faith Perspectives
UNEA5
Programs dedicated to UNEA5.1 – UN Environment Assembly February 2021.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of values. Wednesday, the 3rd of February, at 4.30 – 6.00 PM CET
Inner awareness and commitment for restoring nature. Saturday, the 6th of February, at 9:00 – 10:30 AM CET
LCOY 2021
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) is a youth-led global movement under the umbrella of YOUNGO, the official youth and children NGOs constituency of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
We invite participation from youth students, young entrepreneurs and those interested to get involved in creating a better world. You will learn about climate change, sustainable initiatives, innovations and network with like-minded youth.
LCOY UAE | LCOY Australia
Eco Newsletter, January 2021, Issue 1
Interfaith and climate change Welcome to the first edition of the Eco Newsletter from the Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative. This edition highlights our work related to Interfaith and Climate Change as it is an area that is growing in terms of its importance and influence.
Faiths Unite: Visions for Transformative Climate Action
Faiths Unite: Visions for Transformative Climate Action
Brahma Kumaris Report (2018 – 2020) to the United Nations
United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Report 2018-2020 of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU)
Newsletter December 2020
Dear BK Green Community This year has truly been a rollercoaster. Corona has changed so many things in such a short time. Who could have imagined this! We hope you are all well and things are all right.
2019-09-24 Consultation Program
This conference of faith based organisations considered the following topics
- Climate Justice
- Climate change Loss and Damage
- Climate migration
- Climate emergency declarations
- 2019 and beyond
Video: 10 ways to change the world
By changing our consciousness and re-connecting with our inner spirit we naturally want to make the world a healthier, safer and more beautiful place.
Newsletter November 2020
Dear Friends and servers Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a very beautiful celebration with the universal message of good having victory over evil.
LCOY India 2020
Faith for the Climate
Faith for the Climate, A message from sister Jayanti, Director, Brahma kumaris Europe & middle east, connecting Diwali and the environment.
See the report and photos (phone)
Faiths Unite: Visions for Transformative Climate Action
The Interfaith Liaison Committee welcomes friends from around the world to learn, discuss and explore climate action in the run-up to what should have been COP26.
Online Event, 27 Oct: The World We Want
Brahma Kumaris Report (2014 – 2017) to the United Nations
United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Report 2014-2017 of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU)
Golo’s service tour of Denmark, Sweden and Lithuania
Golo’s service tour of Denmark, Sweden and Lithuania
Easing the lock-down and re-starting BK centre activities
Green Champions training
Eco Online ‘Green Champions’ Training Report
Sunday 21st June 2020
Facilitators: Joanna Kitto and Nirmala Ragbir-Day
UNEP: Faith for Earth meeting Dec 2019
This was an international three day workshop, held 17th -19th December 2019 and attended by Faith for Earth leaders on invitation by UNEP, to develop proposals in line with the sustainable development goals to address issues of climate change.
BK Statement for the UN 66th DPI/NGO Conference: May 30 – June 1, 2016
The Brahma Kumaris statement for the United Nations 66th DPI/NGO Conference:
“Education for Global Citizenship: Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals Together.”
Realizing our Interconnectedness Through a Shift in Awareness
Held: May 30 – June 1, 2016 , Gyeongju, Republic of Korea.
Webinar Series on Human Rights, Ethics and Climate Change
GIF Webinar Series on Human Rights, Ethics and Climate Change Report
Webinar #1 and #2: Human Rights, Ethics and Climate Change
Webinar #3: Human Rights, Ethics and Climate Change (in Spanish)
COP 13, bio-diversity – third Report
This report describes the activities of the second week, including:
- The side event: Awakening Biodiversity Consciousness – Connection Between the Inner State and Nature
- The success arising from the Bioclick programme
- News from the press conference
- Activities at the CEPA kiosk
- a great photo of the team
Newsletter for World Environment Day
The Green Newsletter special edition for World Environment Day.
Greetings in advance for World Environment Day.
Healthy Mind, Healthy Planet, Global Online Summit
Eminent speakers and wonderful performers from all walks of life from Peru, Costa Rica, New York, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Philippines, Hong Kong and Australia contributed to the Healthy Mind, Healthy Planet webinar.
World Environment Day (Youth events).
A new initiative by Brahma Kumaris Youth has been launched on the occasion of the World Environment Day (WED 2020).
Talk on Effect of COVID-19 on Climate Change & World Renewal
Amidst the worldwide lockdown and in conjunction with World Environment Day, Brahma Kumaris Environment Initiative, in cooperation with Brahma Kumaris Malaysia and Awakening TV Channel, hosted a thought-provoking Global YouTube LIVE Public Talk themed: “Effect of COVID-19 on Climate Change & World Renewal”
COP 13, bio-diversity – second Report
The busy activities of the Brahma Kumaris continued through the first week of the COP13 events including:
- Taking part in: Handprint: Positive Action for Sustainability
- Interesting events attended
- the BK side event: Awakening Biodiversity Consciousness – The role of human awareness preserving biodiversity
- Our kiosk at the CEPA fair
- Government representatives met
- weekend hikes
- some great photos…
BioCOP13, Cancun, Mexico 2016, 1st report
Brahma Kumaris are actively attending the Conference of Parties for Biodiversity (BioCop13) being held in Cancun, Mexico 2016. This first report includes:
- The background to the conference
- The Brahma Kumaris theme
- The delegates
- Brahma Kumaris activities
- The participation of the President of Mexico
- Some of the side events that were attended
Green Day in Madhuban 2020
The Green Day dedicated to the environment has now become a bi-annual event in Madhuban. Many activities took place with focus on emergency preparedness and refining our relationship with and service of Mother Earth.
Meditation for the World
Welcome to our daily 15 minutes synchronised meditation with the whole Brahma Kumaris community around the world to share vibrations of peace with the world.
How the light gets in – report 2019 (phone)
Modern Crises and Ancient Gods: How the Light Gets in Festival, Kenwood House, London, UK, 21st September 2019 The annual How the Light Gets In Festival, organized by the Institute of Art and Ideas, brings together leading thinkers and public figures to discuss topical and wide-ranging themes. David Malone, film producer and UK Green Party…
Prakruti Mitra Award
Brahma Kumaris centre in Bangalore was honoured with the “Prakruti Mitra Award” by BNM Institute of Technology, Banashankari & Heritage Trust(R) , Basavanagudi.
Building community resilience in the face of environmental injustice
The Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute policy conference was held on 5-7 November 2019 in Johannesburg. Its purpose was to allow faith leaders from Southern Africa and beyond to deliberate, share practices, and jointly develop policy positions on a number of key issues. Sister Usha of Brahma Kumaris gave an impassioned speech at the closing of the conference.
Building community resilience in the face of environmental injustice (phone)
Sister Usha offered an impactful input at the closing of SAFCEI’s (Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute) policy conference “A new vision for sacred life and living earth” It was held on 5-7 November 2019 in Johannesburg. The purpose of this conference was to create a space where faith leaders from Southern Africa and beyond…
COP25 – Chile – Report 2
The programme of events in Chile for COP25 has continued, even though the conference was moved to Spain. This report describes some of the many team activities.
LCOY15 Netherlands (phone)
Report: BK participation at LCOY – the Local Conference of Youth for Climate Change in Netherlands 16th – 17th November 2019, Amsterdam The Local Conference of Youth for Climate Change Netherlands (LCOYNL) 2019 took place from 16-17 November at the Amsterdam University College. The Conference of Youth (COY) is a youth-powered conference which take place…
LCOY15 Netherlands
The Brahma Kumaris supported The Local Conference of Youth for Climate Change Netherlands (LCOYNL) 2019 with an experienced team. This conference took place from 16-17 November at the Amsterdam University College.
COY15 Madrid
The Conference of Youth (COY) is held annually in the same country and prior to the Conference of the Parties (COP), which is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). COY serves as a preparation session for youth non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to develop position papers, network and form strategic decisions on climate change solutions. Despite the COP venue moving from Chile to Spain, Brahma Kumaris fielded a strong team of experienced young people.
COY15 Madrid (phone)
Report: BK participation at COY15 – the Conference of Youth for Climate Change held in Spain November 29 – December 1, 2019, Madrid The Conference of Youth (COY) is held annually in the same country and prior to the Conference of the Parties (COP), which is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework…
LCOY in Germany (phone)
Report about first BK Local Conference of Youth in Germany 4.-6. October 2019, in Heidelberg The Local Conferences of Youth (LCOY´s) are organized in addition to the international COY, which always take place shortly before the UN Climate Change Conference in the same host country. Since the awareness of the need to inform and act…
LCOY in Germany 2019
The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) for Germany was held in Heidelberg, Germany in October 2019. Over 550 young people attended the event. The local BKs, as well as having an exhibition stand, organised many meditation sessions for the participants. It was a good success.
COP25 – Madrid – Report 11 (last)
After a busy two weeks, much has been done by the team. Several new collaborations have been created. The team is now dispersing back to their places around the world. In this report:
- A review of the final outcome from COP25
- Article in German Newspaper “Die Zeit”
- A Vigil by Interfaith community
- Travel compensation arrangements
- A creative reflection and dialogue
- Feedback meeting
- A birthday party
- Goodbye from the editing team
- Additional reporting on the reflection and dialogue space
COP25 – Madrid – Report 11 (last) (phone)
Friday 13th December 2019 Madrid, Spain This is the final day, and slowly the last members of green team leave our lovely BK centre in Madrid. Final on late Sunday morning a very weak and almost useless declaration has been signed. No major breakthrough had been seriously expected but observers had at least hoped to…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 10
The tireless BK COP Team continue holding events and collaborating with other groups. In this report:
- More news from the COP
- Side event in the Chile Pavilion
- An intergenerational dialogue between all the UN climate bodies and youth representations
- A UN head of organisations leadership dialogue
- Civil society forum
- Some splendid photos
See the report and photos (phone)
COP25 – Madrid – Report 10 (phone)
Thursday 12 December 2019 Madrid, Spain While protesters were pondering how best to make their point as the Friday evening deadline for the negotiations approached, the conference halls were still thronging with business executives and representatives of corporate groups. Many were hosting receptions, cocktails and dinners for financial backers, institutions and government officials. There seems…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 9 (phone)
Wednesday 10th December 2019 Madrid, Spain This morning started with a series of talks in the main plenary hall, moderated by Gonzalo Muñoz. He is the designated climate champion from Chile. The first Speaker was Johan Rockström of the Potsdam Climate Institute and he summed up the latest findings in climate research. The picture he…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 9
In this report:
- Greta Thunberg’s speech and a review of the COP25
- A side event by BK and Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies, at the German Pavilion
- Training with Green Faith
- An interfaith co-ordination meeting
- A second BK reception
- Meeting an education leader from Ahmedabad, India
COP25 – Madrid – Report 8 (phone)
Tuesday 10th December 2019 Madrid, Spain Opening of high-level plenum at the COP High level delegates from the Governments are meeting in Madrid for the second week of crucial UN talks on the global response to the climate emergency. Campaigners have been frustrated by the slow pace of the negotiations, despite growing public clamour, including…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 8
COP25 is now reaching its important stage where decisions need to be made. The BK team continue to give their message in many creative ways. In this report, there is:
- Opening of the high level plenum and where we are at
- Addressing climate change through a human perspective
- BK public program dedicated to COP25
- Youngo daily meeting
- Side event with Al Gore, chairman of the Climate Reality Project
- Action for climate empowerment
- A smoke ceremony
See the report and photos (phone)
COP25 – Madrid – Report 7 (phone)
Monday 9th December 2019 Madrid, Spain This Monday morning, we went early to the Conference as Golo had a Press conference along with Solar Cookers inter-national. At the entrance we were greeted by climate protesters chanting: There is no future without a planet. But before our press conference, the Hall was used by Fridays for…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 7
The team in Madrid continue to make important connections and meet more VIPs. Monday 9th December was a particularly busy day for them. In this report is included:
- The arrival of Greta Thunberg
- Press conference solar cookers
- BK press conference with Sister Jayanti
- Faith leaders meeting UNFCCC Deputy Executive Secretary
- A Briefing on Geo-engineering
- A side event “The power of the religious environmental movement”
- Meeting the Nigerian Minister of the Environment
- A Dialogue of the Resistance Frontiers Initiative
- Some photos of key moments
COP25 – Madrid – Report 6 (phone)
Saturday 7th December 2019 Madrid, Spain The climate conference is entering in its second week and soon environment and foreign ministers will arrive to give a boost and finalise the outcome. Interestingly, the overriding issue of how fast the world needs to cut greenhouse gas emissions has received little official attention. “We are at risk…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 6
The BK COP team in Madrid continue to make important connections and collaborations, sharing the idea that the world needs a change in consciousness. Included in this report:
- A report of the state of the COP negotiations
- The interfaith press conference with Sister Jayanti
- Activities in the Civil Society space
- A side event, “Building a spirit of solidarity to deal with the climate emergency
- The creation of the Sanctuary Space, a new collaboration including BK
COP25 – Madrid – Report 5 (phone)
Friday 6th December 2019 Madrid, Spain Half-way briefing This morning, our team met for the half-way briefing. BKs programs and activities have gone well but it appears the conference is not yet on track to deal adequately with the climate crisis. There is still a week to go but experts already voice doubts if the…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 5
The team had a chance to take some time out from their busy schedule. This report includes:
- The half way briefing
- A message from Dadi Janki
- The president of India visiting Madhuban
- A green outing
- News of the climate march
COP25 – Madrid – Report 4 (phone)
Thursday 5th December 2019 Madrid, Spain Golo and Sonja brought the eternal COP flame from Chile to Madrid. Sister Jayanti official handed it over to the Spanish Brahma Kumaris (BK’s). Workshop on tracking progress 2020-23 Julia and Maria attended a meeting which was part of a two-day CAMDA workshop on data collection and climate action. …
COP25 – Madrid – Report 4
After the intense period of BK programmes and side events, the team were able to network with other groups and enjoy some social occasions with them. In this report there is:
- Workshop on tracking progress 2020-23, a two day CAMDA workshop
- Inner Dimension of Climate Change, a programme of the Global Peace Initiative
- A reception for friends
- How do we relate to future generations? – Organised by the Institute for Advanced Social Studies and BKs helped to facilitate
COP25 – Madrid – Report 3 (Phone)
Wednesday 4th December 2019 Madrid, Spain COP Press conference The day started with our press conference “Climate Emergency needs Visionary Leadership”. Prior to us, the Fridays for Future School strike movement held their press Conference and so the hall was packed and vibrant with the energy when we entered. In our press conference, we discussed…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 3
The Brahma Kumaris team continue to be busy meeting organisation leaders from around the world and sharing the message of peace. In this report there is:
- BK COP Press conference
- Lecture at University Carlos III
- Sister Jayanti meeting the Environment Minister of Argentina
- A view of the Indian Pavillion
COP25 – Madrid – Report 2
This second report from the COP25 reflects one of the Brahma Kumaris’ busiest days. There were several Brahma Kumaris side events and the exhibition stand has been kept busy as it has been, once again, very popular. This report includes:
- Background information for COP25
- 10 ways to change the world exhibition stand
- The interfaith coordination meeting
- Side event: Strengthening Peaceful Pathways to Sustainable Solutions
- Side event: Inspiring Courage to Act and Adapt in a Climate Emergency
- Side event: Collective Adaptation to the Climate Emergency
COP25 – Madrid – Report 2 (phone)
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP25 Tuesday 3rd December 2019, Madrid, Spain The climate conference has started and is now in full swing. More than 20,000 delegates have arrived. The civil society is also present in big numbers and even Greta Thunberg has arrived in Lisbon today by sailboat. This COP is all…
COP25 – Faith communities demand climate justice
The inadequate response from those in power has already led to harmful consequences. The legally-binding Paris Agreement must be implemented. The faith communities offer an empowering voice of hope over fear, of compassion over indifference, and urgent and fair action as a moral obligation.
COP25 – Madrid – Report 1 (phone)
Report on the UN Climate Change Conference COP25 Sunday 1st December 2019 Madrid, Spain From 2nd to14th December, the 25th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP25) is taking place in Madrid, Spain. It is the 11th Climate Conference where Brahma Kumaris (BK) is actively participating. Our BK…
COP25 – Madrid – Report 1
This report records the formation of the highly qualified Brahma Kumaris team from around the world participating in the COP25. This report includes:
- The BK team introduction
- Attending the Indigenous Peoples’ Platform
- The initiation of action by the interfaith group
- The opening of the COP25
- Attending the Human Rights and Climate Change meeting
- The BK exhibition stand firing into action
COP25 – Collective adaptation to the climate emergency
The panel for this side event, 18:30 3rd December, discuss providing support for all humanity.
COP25 – Inspiring courage to act and adapt in a climate emergency
This side event, 16:45 3rd December, with Sister Jayanti in the panel discusses implementing the Paris Agreement in solidarity and compassion.
COP25 – Chile – Report 1 – Phone
ECO Programs in Chile – November and December 2019 Sonja and Golo visited Chile as part of the preparation for the planned UN climate change conference COP25. The conference has meanwhile been moved to Spain due to civil unrest. They conducted programs in the main centre and in Viña del Mar and experienced a growing…
COP25 – Strengthening peaceful pathways to sustainable solutions
This side event, 2:45 3rd December, is a collaboration between Brahma Kumaris and Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies. The panel discuss the co-benefits of working together in peace, for peaceful solutions.
COP25 – The beginning
As has been the case for many years now, Brahma Kumaris will be participating in the Conference of Parties 25 (COP25). Even though the event has moved half way around the world, from Chile to Spain, a strong team has been assembled for the event. Many programs have been arranged to enable us to convey our message of spirituality and its importance to managing climate change. Here we give the team profiles, the calendar of events and a press statement of 2/12/19.
COP25 – Chile – Report 1, November and December
The COP25 team assembled in Chile produced a number of events in preparation for COP25 being in Chile. This report describes the team and a presentation by Golo Pilz. This talk included all the main points of the work of Brahma Kumaris for the environment. There is also description of a talk: Healthy mind, healthy planet at Viña del Mar.
LCOY Austria 2019
The Local Climate Conference of Youth (LCOY) for Austria took place in November 2019. About 300 young people attended.
LCOY Austria 2019 (phone)
LOCAL CLIMATE CONFERENCE OF YOUTH The LCOY Austria took place in Vienna from the 8th to 11th of November 2019. About 300 young people participated. The content was well organized and over 65 workshops were offered. As participants had to be under 30 years old to join the conference, Rainer and Stephanie from the BK…
LCOY 15 India
LCOY-15, INDIA is being hosted by Brahma Kumaris from 2nd to 4th November at its spiritual HQ, Mt.Abu, Rajasthan. Youth from all parts of India were invited to participate in this event and make their voices heard.
LH Positive Planet Forum 2019
5000 people gathered in Le Havre over three days, with 150 speakers from all over the world who presented practical positive propositions to change our societies facing new challenges. The Brahma Kumaris were invited to participate. Please see the link to the Positive Planet Foundation website:
LCOY-15 Invitation
LCOY-15, INDIA is being hosted by Brahma Kumaris from 2nd to 4th November at its International HQs, Mt.Abu, Rajasthan. Youth from all parts of India are invited to participate in this event and make their voices heard.
COY14, Katowice, Poland
The Conference of Youth is organised by and attended by youth of the world who are interested in environmental issues. It is an opportunity for them to learn about the latest issues, to network and to ensure they are equipped with everyday “tools” for climate action. The Brahma Kumaris sent 4 members this year. They organised workshops and meditation sessions as well as attending the events of other parties. They were kept busy!
LCOY14 held in India
COY14 is a three-day international summit which precedes the deliberations of the United Nations Conference for climate change – COP24. … The aim of COY is to motivate youth to commit to fighting climate change and give them a space to brainstorm about global climate policies. LCOY is an offshoot of COY allowing youth to participate in the discussion at a local level.
COY13 Bonn, Germany – Report
This report is from the Conference of Youth (COY) 13 that was held in Bonn, Germany from 2nd to 4th November. The report includes descriptions of:
- Delegates
- Stand
- Art exhibition
- 5 workshops
- Many photos
COY12 for south Asian youth
This meeting of youth from around south Asia looked at a range of environmental issues, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals with a number of inspiring indoor and outdoors activities. They were also entertained with some delightful theatrical events.
UN Conference Combating Desertification 1
The UNCCD COP14 was organized from 2nd to 13th September 2019 at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida in which delegates from 196 countries participated.
The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU) actively participated in the conference.
UN Conference Combating Desertification
Published: 26 September 2019 The UNCCD COP14 was organized from 2nd to 13th September 2019 at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida in which delegates from 196 countries participated. The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU) actively participated in the conference. The conference participants also visited Happy Farm to look at the yogic farming
COY12 – Report 4th – 6th November
Marrakesh hosted the 12th annual global Conference of Youth (COY12) for Climate Change and it was run by the Moroccan Youth organizations. Around 1800 young people from 37 countries attended. Included in this report:
- Events at the Oasys of peace
- Intergenerational dialogue “Co-creating a future to believe in”
- The workshop Generation of Change: Harnessing our Highest Potential
- The closing ceremony
COP21 – COY11 report
The youth of Bahma Kumaris attended the Conference of Youth (COY11) over three days. They met a number of distinguished people and showed how it is possible to convey a serious message and have fun.
UNEP conference, Nairobi, 2019
This UNEP conference held in Nairobi in July 2019, was for youth leaders to come together to discuss actions they can take to facilitate control of climate change. It was a celebration of the 4th anniversary of Laudato Si and the 5th anniversary of the Catholic environment group CYNESA and was attended by a number of world leaders concerned with environmental issues.
Climate Week, Latin America & Caribbean, 2019
LACCWThs is a photo report of the participation of Brhama Kumaris in the Climate Week in Latin America & Caribbean.
Fertigation and orchard farming with meditation
The Brahma Kumaris family in Malaysia held a green retreat to look at aspects of agriculture with experts giving advice on such matters as Fertigation and Hydroponic Farming Systems. This was combined with reflections on the power of meditation to positively affect agriculture yields (yogic farming).
Brahma Kumaris celebrating EU Sustainable Energy Week
As well as attending and participating in the EU event in Brussels, Brahma Kumaris held a number of events in several countries to bring spiritual awareness to a wider audience. These are described in this short report.
United Religious Initiative Nairobi 2019
A meeting was organised in the Desmond Tutu Conference Centre in Nairobi to commemorate World Environment day, 5th June. Many religious groups attended this meeting and Brahma Kumaris, represented by BK. Jyotsna Patel and Dorcas, were active there.
SB50 Climate Change Conference 2019 – week 2
This report gives a summary on the BKEI involvement in the second week of SB50, the intercessional meeting of the United Nation Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Bonn. In this second week the BKEI served through:
- a stand with information material and posters
- Our BKEI official Side Event on Thursday 27th June
- One focus of networking was with youth to prepare for COY15 in Chile
- Another focus had been on bilateral meetings with people from the UNFCCC and the new Chilean COP25 Presidency.
COP15 – Copenhagen Archives
Daily Reports from Brahma Kumaris Delegation at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark
The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark took place 7th -19th December 2009. It included the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the fifth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 5).
Monday 7th December 2009
After long lines for the conference registration, Renaud, Arnold, and Patricia went to the Government meeting and NGO Forum while Sister Jayanti, Julia, and Sonja went to the Religious Leaders meeting.
COP15 Government Meetings, where Brahma Kumaris have observer status.
The main government groups seem to want an agreement, however there are differing opinions as to whether it will be successful or not.
Gathering of Religious Leaders in support of COP-15 (December 7th–13th)
Sister Jayanti is one of the 35 religious leaders who have been called together by an organization called the Global Peace Initiative of Women (GPIW).
The theme of the gathering is Addressing Climate Change by Awakening to Oneness. BKWSU, Denmark was thanked, in all the literature and also at the opening plenary on Monday afternoon, for all the help that they have given as a local partner of this event.
Tuesday 8th December 2009
Morning Session:
Presentation by Sr Joan Chittister, Benedictine Nun, Renowned Author, and Prominent Voice in Interfaith spoke of Judeo-Christian story of creation. There are two versions of the creation story. The first, the masculine domination of the scriptures, has been used to dominate: Come now gentleman – God creates man in His own image – be fruitful and multiply, have dominion over every living thing. You can have it all; it is all for you, it is all here to satisfy your needs.
Wednesday 9th December 2009
A Day of Media Interviews!
COP 15 – Bella Center
Sister Jayanti, Sonja, Julia, Patricia, Winnie, and Arnold set off to COP15, the government meeting. This was Sister Jayanti, Sonja and Julia’s first visit to the Bella Center, as they had been involved with the Religious Leaders meeting up until now.
Thursday 10th December 2009
Meetings with UN Secretariat
Sister Jayanti and Renaud left early for the Bella Center for a pre-arranged meeting with Preety Bhandari, Financial and Technical Support, Climate Change Secretariat. The negotiations are basically divided up into five themes. Finance is one of them, which Preety Bhandari heads up. This was a very pleasant meeting; Preety was very open and listened with attention to our spiritual perspective.
Wednesday 16th December 2009
Sister Jayanti departed from Copenhagen after breakfast, and there were many fond farewells. It had been such a special time for all, spending 10 days together, and everyone was so appreciative of Sister Jayanti’s presence.
COP15
Because of the planned demonstrations to enter the Bella Center by force, our delegation decided not to go the Bella Center today, but instead to focus on our events and stand at the Klimaform.
Thursday 17th December 2009
We woke up on Thursday to a snow covered Copenhagen.
Julia and Piero set off early in the hopes of getting into the Bella Center, where over 100 Heads of State would be meeting that day. Battling freezing cold winds, they arrived with about 20 others only to find that the numbers of NGOs allowed to enter the Bella Center had been reduced from 1,000 to 300, and that if you were not on a special list –with a green access card – you were not going to get in!
Friday 18th December 2009
The Last Word
This is the final report from the BK COP15 delegation and we just want to mention a couple of additional things:
- Today Viggo, one of the BKs from another part of Denmark was on the way to work and was listening to the Radio and heard Sonja’s interview on Radio Denmark.
- Anna Mogensen from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the BK center today. She has a focus on youth and children and they wanted their voices to be heard. She was interested in our visions and principles for their future work in Climate Change. She had seen our stand at the Bella Center, and had collected the material but had never seen anyone – Sonja explained this was because for the last two days we had not been able to get into the Bella Center due to the restrictions on the numbers of NGOs allowed in! Anna is coming to interview Sonja at the Center on Tuesday.
- Piero gave a phone interview with Lifegate Radio which broadcasts in Milano and Rome about what a spiritual organization like the Brahma Kumaris has to do with COP15. It was a chance let people know the importance of a change in consciousness, starting with thought, to bring a change in the environment.
BK Delegation at the Climate Change Conference in Mexico
Daily reports from the Conference
Setting the Context:
This year’s Climate Change Conference COP16 is being held in the beautiful ‘Mexican Caribbean’ state of Quintana Roo in the port of Morelos, south of Cancun. Our delegation is staying in a gorgeous beach house with unlimited vistas of the ocean where we are constantly accompanied by the sound of breaking waves on long sandy beaches. However, we are here to attend a conference with a busy schedule and so not too much time is spent at the house, but Amrit Vela and the morning sunrises are very special.
2nd Day Climate Change Conference – Tuesday 30th November
Cancun Messe
Half the delegation went to Cancum Messe, the exhibition and workshop center where the Brahma Kumaris have a stand. The afternoon was spent speaking to various people and exploring the area, where Governments, UN secretariat, UN agencies and NGOs are exhibiting together. Some of the governments have large exhibitions and Brazil has particularly wonderful stand, which as you enter, it is as if you are exploring the Amazon jungle full of sights and sounds.
3rd Day — Climate Change Conference – Wednesday 1st December
Our delegation is now complete with the arrival of Sister Jayanti last night and Patricia Itergurri, from Peru arriving mid-morning. We also had an arrival and departure from our local centers, Raquel from Mexico City who departed and Rossy Rea who arrived from Tijuana (close to the USA boarder). After holding a meeting to brief Sister Jayanti and share news with each other from the previous day’s activities, most of us set off for the day.
4th and 5th Day – Climate Change Conference – Thursday and Friday, 2nd & 3rd December
Thursday 2nd December
Golo Pilz set off early in the morning for a live interview with Michelle Begue, Correspondent, Chinese TV Chinese Central Television where he shared how the Brahma Kumaris have been working successfully for the last fifteen years with renewable energies and that India had favorable conditions for successful implementation, as many villages still have little or no electrical connection and they would greatly benefit from such technology.
6th and 7th Day – Climate Change Conference – Saturday and Sunday, 4th and 5th December
Saturday 4th December
Climate Change Village
A group of us accompanied Sister Jayanti, Golo Pilz and Patricia Itergurri for a presentation on Consciousness and Climate: A Confluence of Two Living Systems at the Climate change Village – this is the NGO Forum sponsored by the Mexican Federal Government. The area is a converted go-cart sports arena with large pavilions and huge stages that had been set up for evening entertainment.
8th Day – Climate Change Conference – Monday, 6th December
KlimaForum
A group of us accompanied Piero Musini to the KlimaForum for a talk on “Natural Farming and Yogic Agriculture” It was the perfect place for such a meeting as the setting is the most natural, of all the arena’s of the Climate Change Conference, being open to the outside elements and the audience is the most interested in natural ways of doing things.
9th Day — Climate Change Conference
Meeting with South African Minister at the Moon Palace Hotel (COP16).
A group from our delegation, Sister Jayanti, BK Usha, Sonja and Golo met with Edna Molewa, the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs. Sister Jayanti shared with her the necessity for ethics and values to be incorporated into the climate negotiations. The minister agreed and said that when there is not trust it is very difficult to come to an agreement.
10th Day — Climate Change Conference
Yesterday our delegation began to break up as Sister Jayanti, BK Carmen, and Usha left for Merida. Early this morning S Jayanti went to the University of Merida to meet with the alumni of business administration. She spoke on the theme of Administration for the 21st Century: Leading with Love. 200 business people attended. After the program she had a live interview on national radio station called Radio Formula which was also broadcast in twenty-five cities across the US.
11th & 12th Day — Climate Change Conference
Being at our Stand in Cancun Messe . . . .is an interesting experience as many passers by, on seeing the words “spiritual university” are amazed and want to know more about the relationship between spirituality and climate change and are also interested in our presence here.
Brahma Kumaris in South Africa for COP17, UN Conference on Climate Change
The Brahma Kumaris Centre in Durban is currently hosting international visitors for COP17, associated exhibitions, parallel events, and participating in various associated conferences. The UN Conference COP17 is taking place from 28th November – 9th December.
First day of COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa
Opening Ceremony
COP17 was officially opened Monday 28th Nov. with a welcome ceremony attended by the President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Mr Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma and H.E. Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation for the Republic of South Africa and President Elect of COP17/CMP7, together with many other dignitaries.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 29th Nov.
Two presentations on Solar Energy
- NGO Forum, enthusiastic crowd of 200 people at the C7 NGO forum at University of KwaZulu Natel
- Digital Media Lounge in the Durban Exhibition Centre
The BKWSU has established a solar thermal power plant (India-One Project) at Shantivan Campus in India which is set to reduce the negative effects of global warming.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 30th Nov.
Media morning at C7, NGO Forum at University of KwaZulu-Natal
On this beautiful summer morningSister Jayanti and Golo Pilz were interviewed by both Live TV and radio on the veranda of the university overlooking the green hillsides of Durban.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 1st Dec.
Living in Harmony
Creating Inner resilience in Challenging Times
The tour of talks by Sister Jayanti entitled Living in Harmony started with the first talk in Port Elizabeth. After COP17 there will be total six Living in Harmony talks around South Africa and in neighboring countries.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 2nd Dec.
Press Conference – Interfaith Declaration on Climate Change presents Religion & Science on the same page.
Mr. Stuart Scott, Director of Interfaith Declaration, had arranged this press conference in co-operation with the South African Faith Communities Environment Initiative (SAFCEI). Former Bishop Geoff Davies, coordinator of SAFCEI, underlined that in the spirit of trust there has to be co-operation between us.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 3rd Dec.
COP17 Side event in Durban Exhibition Centre, a joint panel of Brahma Kumaris and Maryknoll Sisters
SUSTAINABLE CAPACITY BUILDING:
Empowering Individuals and Communities to Act.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 4th Dec.
Interfaith Prayer Meeting
The COP17 Faith Secretariat hosted an inter-faith prayer service at the Sports Centre of Steve Biko Campus, Durban University of Technology. Prayers from different faiths were welcomed at the prayer service, and the BKWSU was one of the seven different faiths that took part. Others were from Hindu, Moslem, Baha’I, Christian, Buddhist, and Jewish, traditions.
Cop17, Un’s Climate Change Conference In Durban, South Africa – 5th Dec.
Meetings
Sister Jayanti met with Sheila Sisulu, Deputy Executive Director, Hunger Solutions Office, World Food Programme, who showed a lot of interest both in spirituality and solar energy.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 6th Dec.
Wisdom from the Past, Solutions for the Present – hosted by the Gandhi Development Trust/Satyagraha.
Panel discussion at Diakonia, lead by Ela Gandhi, granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi.
The afternoon began with a visual presentation of posters created by the Gandhi Development Trust with quotations from Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Martin Luther King and E.F. Schumacher.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 7th Dec.
Sustainable Capacity Building – Empowering Individuals and Communities to Act
Panel discussion at the NGO Forum, UKZN. The first speaker, Golo Pilz, set the context of climate change globally and provided statistics to illustrate the accelerating depletion of the earth’s resources. He highlighted the role of spiritual values and the resulting lifestyle of simplicity, and explained the positive effects these have on reducing the impact of climate change.
COP17, UN’s Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa – 8th Dec.
Research and Independent Non Governmental Organization (RINGO) Constituency Meetings
The Brahma Kumaris are registered with UNFCCC as part of the RINGO constituency. Julia Grindon-Welch and Valeriane Bernard attended these meetings. RINGO does not advocate; it is an independent group whose role is to supply information to COP, indicating how scientific research relates to the Climate Community. 50-100 representatives from RINGO met every other day from 9:00-10:00 am to share the highlights from the negotiations.
Is climate change a violation of human rights?
Climate change and human rights – Valériane Bernard
COP18 Is climate change a violation of human rights? (June 2012)
Faith Based Leaders Discuss Ethical Dimensions of Climate Change
December 7th – As the closing of COP 18 looms, particularly given how things are going, if one is a person of faith, it is befitting to start this day with prayer, as it the prospective outcomes are far from promising. After the now-routine 1-hour bus ride and 20 minute walk from where the shuttle bus drops us to where the sessions occur, I started my day at the session, “Ethical and Religious Insights on the Climate Crisis,” organized by the World Council of Churches(WCC).
Report for 6 & 7 Dec 2012
Side event at the Intercontinental Hotel: Sustainable Innovation Forum
As COP18 Qatar draws to a close, business and government leaders gathered at the Sustainable Innovation Forum. The forum took place in the Intercontinental Hotel overlooking the beautiful Al Corniche area of Doha and the Arabian Gulf. It was hosted by Climate Action in partnership with UNEP led by Achim Steiner, UNEP Executive Director and Under Secretary General of the United Nations.
Report for 5 Dec 2012
Qatar Foundation Presentation
Opposite the Qatar National Convention Centre, where COP18 , the venue of COP 18, a new Education City is being built by Qatar Foundation. Many innovative buildings and arenas are in this area, where many international universities are also established. The Qatar Foundation is under the patronage of Her Highness Sheika Mozah.
Report for 4 Dec 2012
Inter-religious Coordination Meeting
This meeting focussed on the need to start preparing now for COP 19 meeting in Warsaw, especially building an inter-religious presence based on partnerships with Polish faith and inter-faith organisations and networks as hosts. It was agreed that faiths are diverse and yet there is a clear common purpose to do what is noble and right, to protect nature, to reduce harm, and to act wisely and in line with faith-based scriptures and values.
Report for 3 Dec 2012
Side event on “Environmental Protection: Religious Perspective”
Dr Ibrahim Saleh Al Naimi, Chairman-Board of Directors, DICID, gave an introduction stating that different religions have in common the devotion to God, and His creation, the environment, needs to be protected.
Report for 30 Nov to 2 Dec 2012
30 November 2012
The international delegation had another wonderful day. The early morning lesson was held together with all the Brahma Kumaris members in Qatar and those who came from Dubai and Oman. It was a very warm gathering, in which we shared experiences, presents and a delicious breakfast together.
Report for 29 November 2012
RINGO morning meeting
RINGO is the constituency Brahma Kumaris is affiliated with, it stands for Research and Independent NGO. Valeriane Bernard attended several RINGO meetings. On 29 November, all the participants informed about their activities in COP 18. Some of them followed meetings on mitigation, others on poverty or adaptation.
8th Conference of Youth
The BK Environment Initiative (BKEI) youth participation was scaled up in 2012 with a meaningful and effective participation at COY8 as part of the overall UN set of meetings on climate change in Doha. COY8 was held on 23rd to 25th November 2012 at the Doha Student Centre in Qatar.
Report for 28 November 2012
RINGO meeting
This morning Valeriane Bernard participated in the RINGO meeting (Research Institutions NGO), as Brahma Kumaris is part of this constituency within the Major Groups of the United Nations. It was a short meeting but Valeriane had the opportunity to meet some of the drafters of the declaration that RINGO will present at the COP 18 (text will follow).
Report for 27 November 2012
Side Event: Gender and Climate: Moving beyond the Rhetoric
BKWSU delegates: Sister Jayanti, Golo Piltz, Anthony Phelips, Sonja Ohlsson, Jyothi Hulmani, Teresa Mungazi and Teresa Lugones.
Report for 26 November 2012
Background
Since the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) entered into force in 1994, the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC has been meeting annually to assess progress in dealing with climate change. The COP is the highest decision-making authority of the Convention. There are now 195 parties to the convention taking part in climate change negotiations.
What is needed now is a profound shift in global awareness
Think globally, act locally.
For twenty years this slogan has been used to catch the world’s attention. The good news is that thousands of small scale green projects have popped up all over the world: people acting locally.
This we have done. This we already do.
Summary Report of COP19 and COY9
COP19 was taking place in the atmosphere of a strong call from science as well as from the communities adversely impacted on by climate change, with the most pleading message coming from the Philippines, recently devastated by a typhoon. Their lead negotiator, Mr Naderev Yeb Saño, inspired many to join in the solidarity fast with typhoon victims, which he himself initiated and held throughout the climate change conference, thus protesting global inaction.
Report 20th to 22nd November 2013
The Indian Minister for Environment and Forest, Smt. Jayanthi Natarajan gave a press conference on India’s position in COP19. Sister Jayanti and Golo Pilz were invited by the Indian Ambassador in Poland, Mrs. Monika Kapil to attend, even though this press conference was for press only. They were accompanied by Aneta Loj and Sonja Ohlsson.
CIDSE and Lutheren World Federation press briefing; 22nd November 2013
Sr Jayanti was invited to participate in this press briefing which included an opening statement from the Deputy Minister from the Phillipines. Sister Jayanti spoke of the importance and power of silence and the need to develop awareness and value for human dignity.
Report of 19th November 2013
Every morning, the international group makes a 30 minutes long power walk through the old town of Warsaw to the Smolna meditation center. There they have their daily briefing sessions on the activities of the day. Tuesday will be a busy day…
Report of 17th + 18th November 2015
World Climate Ltd arranges a yearly two-day business forum in connection with the Climate Change Conferences. For the first time they gave five tickets free to selected NGOs in order to fulfil their statement of collaborating with civil society. From the Brahma Kumaris, Francois Becher, Sonja Ohlsson, Nonie Reaño, Aneta Loj and Golo Pilz participated.
This cold and winter-like Sunday in Warsaw finished with a Roman Catholic Mass for the climate in the Cathedral Basilica of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist. It was the first time in the recent Polish history that an orthodox and a protestant priest participated together in a Roman Catholic ecumenical prayer.
Interview, Sister Jayanti, 15th November 2013
Sister Jayanti (Brahma Kumaris) gives a refreshing insight into how our attitudes and how we live can be changed to help make the world a much better place for all of us to live in. The interview by the UNFCCC climate studio can be seen here.
Report of 15th + 16th November 2013
Golo Pilz was invited to present about India One and the use of solar energy in India. The Chair of the Environmental Protection and Management at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering introduced Golo and welcomed more than 20 interested students and lecturers.
Interview with Golo Pilz at UNFCCC studio, 14th November 2013
COP19 (14/11/13) – Golo Joachim Pilz, Director of the Solar Research Institute in India, believes it is important to practically demonstrate alternative clean energy generation.
The Institute has undertaken 25 research projects in cooperation with the German and Indian governments focusing on solar steam generation systems for cooking and independent power generation.
Renewable energy can often be inconsistent so he highlights the need for systems that are able to store energy.
His organisation has found an innovative way to store the energy and he goes into some detail about the system they use. He hopes that this system will be replicated for small to medium scale energy storage projects in the future.
Report of 14th November 2013
I care is the Polish slogan for COP19. For the Brahma Kumaris delegation, Thursday the 14th Nov. it became a continuation of the slogan – I care and I share. A press conference took place, along with interviews with the Climate Change Studio, a public talk in the evening, and a number of meetings.
Report of 12th + 13th November 2013.
The second and third day of COP19 proved to be two days of intense networking, especially for the two best networkers in our delegation – Juan Milling and Valeriane Bernard. The youth group and interfaith group are very active, they share very strong hopes for the future. Our press release got ready and there were some very interesting interviews.
Sustainability enacted by the guiding values of UNFCCC
Climate Change negotiations are grounded in the values of UNFCCC, such as equity and cooperation. Nevertheless, adherence to these values is sometimes weakened by national interests. We consider the crucial role of systemic and beneficent thinking in ensuring our transition to a sustainable world.
The Green Team Youth Group report.
Poland hosted the 9th Conference of Youth ( COY), a 4 day conference held in Warsaw. 350 youth from over 20 countries participated to share stories, learn skills, per-form solidarity acts and sharpen strategies. COY’s focus has always been to unite youth all over the world in order to strengthen their voice towards global climate change.
Report Monday 11th Nov. – Opening of COP19
The opening day of COP19 has been one of great concern in that the typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines has devastated the country. The lead negotiator from the Philippines gave a passionate, emotional speech at the beginning of the 19th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP19) on Monday. After his speech, Mr. Sano said: “It is always hard to attribute a single weather event to climate change, but we know that the science is also clear that climate change will mean more intense typhoons, potentially. And even if we cannot attribute Haiyan to climate change directly, my country refuses to accept a future where super-typhoons become a regular fixture.”
Report of Preparations for COP 19
United Nations 19th Conference on Climate Change is taking place in Warsaw Poland from Monday 11th to Friday 22nd November 2013. For the Brahma Kumaris it is the 6th COP (Conference of the Parties) to participate in as an observer organization. At this Warsaw gathering, world leaders will work towards developing a climate initiative to replace the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. Participants intend for the new plan to be operational by 2020.
Consciousness and Climate Change
What is needed is a profound shift in awareness to transform the quality of the conversation and action among stakeholders: we need to recognize that our preferences and behaviors shape our actions. Real change must begin – and be sustained – in the minds and hearts of human beings.
Global Justice, Equity and Sustainability
Wednesday 20th November 11.00 hrs – 13.30 hrs
Climate negotiations are grounded in UNFCCC values such as equity and co-operation but are weakened by narrow interests. This panel considers the crucial role of systematic and holistic thinking and the principles of imternmational law, human rights and inter-generational equity in the transition to a sustainable world.
Living in Harmony – Public Event with Sister Jayanti
Thursday 14th November 18.00 – 20.00
– Address: Związek Nauczycielstwa Polskiego, Warsaw, Smulikowskiego 6/8
Harmony is synonymous with inner peace and balance, which give feelings of happiness. How can we maintain our inner harmony in the face of negativity? Guest speaker: Jayanti Kirpalani, Director of the Brahma Kumaris for Europe and the Middle East and spiritual leader and an emissary for peace for the last 45 years. Proceeded by: Duśka Markowska Resich.
Consciousness and Climate Change
Tuesday 19th November 18.00 – 20.00
Address: The Meditation Gallery, Smolna 11 Str. 8a (1st floor), intercom No. 88, 00-375 Warsaw
Guest speaker: Golo Pilz, Director of the Solar Research Institute in Rajasthan, has played a key role over the past 20 years in establishing the Brahma K