On May 30, 2023, at the invitation of Peking University's School of International Relations, Linda Wong, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) and a member of IUCN's Commission on Environmental Economic and Social Policy (CEESP), delivered an academic lecture to undergraduate students of the course "International Organizations and International Law" at Peking University. The lecture focused on the topic of "Global Environmental Governance and Chinese NGOs."

The lecture was part of the practical expert series organized for the course, aiming to deepen students' understanding of the roles and functions of international organizations, as well as the application and impact of international law in global affairs. Hosted by Associate Professor Lianlian Liu, the lecture attracted over 160 undergraduate students from the School of International Relations, Yuanpei College, Guanghua School of Management, and the Law School.

At the beginning of the lecture, Linda Wong captivated the students' attention by sharing vivid and engaging examples, such as the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, the "Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework," the inclusion of Peking University's campus conservation area as a global biodiversity classic case, the composition of the Synthetic Biology Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group under the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Global Scientists Network for Digital Series on Genetic Resources, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and their involvement in global environmental governance practices. These examples sparked students' interest in the global governance mechanisms based on international conventions and the role of international organizations, providing them with a clear understanding of the work and contributions of international environmental non-governmental organizations in global environmental governance.

Subsequently, Linda Wong conducted a theoretical analysis of key concepts such as "ecological civilization" and the "going global" strategy for social organizations. The discussion focused on translation and expression, the responsibilities of entities, the role of the state, the lack of talent, financial security, and the challenges faced by social organizations in their global engagement. Linda Wong based the analysis on reflections of China's reality, contemplating how Chinese social organizations can participate in global environmental governance and contribute effectively. In conclusion, Linda Wong expressed sincere expectations for the vibrant youth in attendance, hoping that they would engage in frontline global environmental governance through volunteering, internships, or employment, thereby assisting China in actively participating in global environmental governance.

During the Q&A session at the end of the lecture, Linda Wong addressed various inquiries from the students. Discussions revolved around topics such as the distinction and historical evolution of "biopiracy" and "common heritage," the role played by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora in biodiversity protection as a global trade convention, the synergistic effects between the Convention on Biological Diversity and other conventions, the enhancement of Chinese youth's participation on the global governance stage, and the understanding and application of the concept of "ecological civilization."

After the lecture, several students approached the speaker, expressing their desire to participate in international treaty conferences to learn and gain practical experience.

The active involvement of young people in global environmental governance holds significant importance. Their participation from youth serves as a Human-based Solutions (HbS) for addressing the three major environmental crises and promoting sustainable development in human society. Young people are the "morning sun at eight or nine o'clock", representing the future and hope of society, and they possess a strong awareness and concern for environmental issues. With their innovative thinking and proactive nature, young people can provide new perspectives, solutions, and creativity to environmental protection efforts. Engaging in global environmental governance allows them to bring new voices and references to the decision-making process and policy formulation. This lecture brought by CBCGDF provided a good perspective for the college students, and it was warmly welcomed by them.

Reporter: Xiaoai

Editor: Samantha

Contact: V10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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