Environmental training

JAKARTA (JP): Environmental training sponsored by UNESCO and the National Institute of Sciences (LIPI) is being conducted on the island of Pari in the Seribu Islands.

The training, from March 23 to 27, is aimed at handling problems relating to coastal areas and small islands, Antara reported Saturday.

According to the chairman of the organizing committee, Suharsono, all activities will be carried out at the Oceanology Research Station on Pari island.

The training involves local fishermen, students and teachers of senior high schools, observers and journalists.

The participants will be taught about coastal area management, coral reefs and social and economic life in fishing communities.

Suharsono said the training also covered raising community awareness and encouraging community participation in conserving coral reefs and handling organic waste. "Raising people's awareness of the need to conserve sea grasses and fisheries is also discussed," he said.

The training consists of lectures, videos and on-site practical workshops.

LIPI and UNESCO have been jointly carrying out environmental activities in the Seribu Islands through their Caring for the Seribu Islands. (sur)