GOVERNOR Ralph DLG Torres signed Wednesday a proclamation declaring April Environmental Awareness Month and April 22 CNMI Earth Days.
Eliceo Cabrera, Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality Administrator, and Roberta Guerrero Executive Director of Micronesia Islands Nature Alliance, were among the others present at the Micro Beach pavilion. They were joined by other environmental advocates, government officials, and lawmakers.
The proclamation cites Section 9 Article I of the CNMI Constitution that states that “Everyone has the right to a clean public environment in all places, including the air and water.”
The theme for this year’s Environmental Awareness Month, Defend Our Planet, emphasizes the CNMI’s responsibility to preserve and protect its environment for the wellbeing and health of the community.
Eliceo Cabrera, BECQ Administrator, made his remarks pointing out that Environmental Awareness Month has been a longstanding tradition in all parts of the world, including the CNMI.
He stressed the importance of visitors and community members collectively defending, protecting and preserving the land and sea in the CNMI, irrespective of race, citizenship, or residence status.
Roberta Guerrero is the Executive Director of MINA. She said that they feel like one big family, and that we are all in this together. We are able to support our programs with the help and collaboration of all of your offices. Without your support, this would not be possible.
Torres asked all residents to take an active role in protecting the environment for future generations.
He stated that there is a sense pride here in the islands, not only for the land but also for the sea. Our environment is what it is. [its part of]Our culture. Thank you to everyone. [You are]Definitely the right [entities] protecting our environment.
He stated, “To all who call this place home, this is our obligation. And I say this because it is our responsibility to see it and take care of its needs, then the next generation will.” [do the same thing]. We were moving this Making the CNMI a World Class destination [concept forward]. Again, thank you for all that you do and let’s keep the Marianas clean.
There are many events planned throughout April to celebrate Environmental Awareness Month. This Friday, April 1st, there will be roadside waving at the Garapan Fishering Base from 3:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Other events include a recycling contest and tours of the BECQ laboratory, an expo at CNMI Museum, and islandwide cleanups on Earth Day or Saturday, April 23.
