GIANYAR ~ Gianyar’s government ran a forum last Friday to help teachers promote learning about environmental issues from an early age, an official said.

The forum in Tampaksiring was opened by Gianyar Regent Tjokorda Artha Ardhana Sukawati, who said it was an opportunity to learn about our increasingly complex environment.

“Efforts to prevent the degradation of the environment will be more effective if the people responsible for conservation understand the issues from an early age,” Sukawati said.

Head of Gianyar’s environmental body Dr. Ketut Sudiarsa said the forum involved 150 teachers from primary to senior high school levels.

He said the short-term plan resulting from the day’s training was to make pupils aware of simple things they could do, like separating organic non-organic waste and planting seedlings for future reforestation projects.

Head of Tampaksiring high school 1 I Gusti Ngurah Puja Armaya said he welcomed the program and the effort the government was making to instil love for the environment in pupils.