Let’s Work Together for a Better Future
Iraq, located between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, boasts fertile soil
as the cradle of ancient Mesopotamian civilization.
However, recent climate change has significantly reduced rainfall in the river basins,
slowing their flow and leading to challenges in water and food supply.
and food supply and
vulnerable to extreme temperatures
(Out of 163 countries)
Iraqi government is establishing a national climate change adaptation plan
to protect children from the impacts of climate change,
ensure disaster management for vulnerable populations,
prevent desertification, and conserve biodiversity.
Considering the impact of environmental issues on healthcare,
WeLoveU has cooperated consistently with the United Iraqi Medical Society
(UIMS) to launch the “Iraq Goes Green” campaign.
September to November last year, environmental awareness campaigns
were conducted at five major universities in Baghdad
to promote environmental consciousness.
On September 29, starting with an opening ceremony and street cleanup, until November 1,
various universities held conferences on climate crisis response and environmental
conservation to raise environmental awareness among young intellectuals.
Volunteers gifted reusable tumblers and eco-bags
to the students and citizens who participated in the campaignS,
encouraging them to reduce disposable items and plastic usage.
“Thank You for Supporting the Environmental Campaign.”
On February 21, the UIMS celebrated the successful conclusion
of their environmental campaign. They sent photos of the conferences held
at five universities and shared campaign-related news posted on social media with WeLoveU.
The campaign-related posts received over 150 million views,
indicating a strong response from Iraqi citizens.
A video of an opening speech by Naseer Shamma, a famous Iraqi musician
and the goodwill ambassador of the World Health Organization and of the International
Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, also gained attention.
He expressed his support by saying, “The environmental campaign in Baghdad
will continue for a sustainable earth.”
On March 27, Ahmed M. Alheety, President of the UIMS,
expressed his gratitude through a video message.
“Iraq is significantly impacted by climate change. With the generous support of the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, we launched the “Iraq Goes Green” campaign near the Tigris River, involving officials from the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Education, and other government departments.
We expanded the campaign to five universities to raise environmental awareness among young people, who are our future. Thanks to WeLoveU’s warm support, we have been able to help the Iraqi people in difficult times. We hope to continue our cooperation with Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah of WeLoveU on this environmental campaign. Thank you so much.”
WeLoveU will continue to work closely with organizations around the world
to protect the lives and homes of our global neighbors
by focusing on environmental conservation. Our partnership
with the UIMS will also continue in the future.
A Clean Environment Improves the Quality of Life for Our Neighbors
Do you know the “Broken Windows Theory”?
It suggests that if a broken window is left unrepaired,
crime will spread around that area,
demonstrating that neglecting minor issues can lead to bigger problems.
This park was probably clean and beautiful when it was first created.
However, as more and more trash was left unattended, it became what it is today.
To create a clean and safe local environment by removing neglected trash,
WeLoveU launched the Clean WORLD Movement welcoming the New Year.
In January and February, over 500 WeLoveU members cleaned streets, parks, and beaches
in Hong Kong, the United States, Peru, and Australia, collecting over 6 metric tons of trash.
January 14
February 22
February 25
Theresa, WeLoveU Member From Australia
“I invited my cousin from Brisbane to join the Clean WORLD Movement. I am really happy to participate with my children and my cousin Alex, and it feels great to do something for the community.”
Theresa, WeLoveU Member From Australia
A clean environment helps reduce stress and prevent crime.
Through the ongoing Clean WORLD Movement, WeLoveU aims to improve
the quality of life for our neighbors and create a beautiful and healthy society.
End the Year Meaningfully by Volunteering
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, led by Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah,
concluded the year meaningfully by conducting the Clean WORLD Movement
and blood drives in November and December.
They cleaned streets, parks, and other locations in Rep. of Korea, the United States,
Peru, Nepal, India, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, sharing the warmth of love
of a mother with neighbors through blood donations to save lives.
(6 times)
Scenes of ‘Love Your Neighbors’ Through Photos
“I’m delighted to receive WeLoveU’s support and encouragement.
Thanks to all of you who have volunteered diligently, we have
achieved so much. I sincerely thank each and every one of you.”
Emily Surmont, Spokesperson of the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves in Titusville, FL, U.S.
WeLoveU consistently carries out the Clean WORLD Movement
and Blood Drive in various locations, aiming to preserve the global environment
and protect the precious lives of our global family.
Make the Park Beautiful by Planting Trees
In the Pezzutti Park in Cairns, Queensland, Australia,
WeLoveU members are digging the soil diligently and planting saplings.
With the eager participation of children, young trees have been delicately planted
in the gaps between the larger trees, adding to the park’s beauty.
🌳 How to Plant Saplings 🌳
The members had high hopes that the young trees would thrive, enhancing the beauty of Pezzutti Park, which serves as a resting place for many citizens.
P.S.
On December 10, WeLoveU members in Cairns
planted 200 saplings on the Pezzutti Park within the community.
This activity was a part of the Mom’s Garden Project
and was graciously sponsored by the Cairns Regional Council.
“Earth, Please Don’t Be Ill”
533 children from WeLoveU member families displayed their talents in an environmental
art competition, the 1st Global Children’s Environmental Art Competition
organized by the media company Chosun News Press.
The competition was conducted online from November 1 to 12.
The artworks beautifully encapsulated children’s thoughts and concerns
about the environment and nature. What does the Earth look like
in the eyes of children? Let’s explore in the drawings.
🎨 I Like Fresh and Beautiful Nature 🎨
“The animals welcome us
as we keep the Earth clean.”
“I like a world where owls peacefully
perch and enjoy the beauty of nature.”
“I love forests. I wish forests were
always beautiful and clean.”
“I enjoy watching the beautiful stars in the forest, which are hard to see in the city.”
“A space where city dwellers
can relieve stress.”
“Only fresh nature
can be put in the basket.”
🎨 The Earth Changing With Effort 🎨
“Polar bears are losing their families due to environmental destruction and have nowhere to live. Which Earth do you want to live on, an ill Earth or a happy Earth? I choose the happy Earth!”
“Earth is ill from car exhaust fumes.
Let’s plant more trees
to make a pleasant Earth.”
“Animals and plants on Earth
suffer from environmental pollution.
Let’s start with small actions
to protect the Earth.”
“A preserved environment has life,
while an unpreserved environment has none.”
🎨 Earth Is Ill 🎨
“We must protect the environment
without polluting it.”
“When radioactive waste is dumped into the sea, a two-headed mutant turtle sheds tears.”
“Burning land, air full of smoke, extreme weather like heavy rain, hail, and droughts! Animals and plants are getting sick and disappearing due to climate change.”
“Due to rising temperatures, polar bears,
fish, and trees are disappearing,
and the Earth is gradually vanishing.”
“The monkey longs for the old days
when there were many trees.”
“Let’s embrace Earth, which is sick
from environmental pollution.”
🎨 Take Care of the Environment, and Love Nature 🎨
“Let’s make the world clean with Mother’s love.”
“Let’s beautifully nurture the Earth
we will live together on.”
“This is how we protect the Earth
and keep it clean!”
“We must save the trees that clean the air
so that we can live.”
🎨 Let’s Open the Bright Future Together with a Green Earth! 🎨
On November 26, the award ceremony for the Environmental Art Competition
was held at the K-POP Tower Exhibition Hall within N Seoul Tower.
Among more than 3,500 participants from both domestic and international locations,
a total of 218 children were awarded prizes, including the Environment Minister Award,
Education Minister Award, Seoul Mayor Award, Gold Prize (including awards from
Intl. WeLoveU Foundation), Silver Prize, Bronze Prize, and Honorable Mention.
WeLoveU members’ children also received awards: 1 Gold Prize, 3 Silver Prizes,
14 Bronze Prizes, 20 Honorable Mentions, and 45 participants recognized
with Special Mention awards, totaling 83 recipients. Director Kim Jung-rak
from WeLoveU participated as a presenter for the Gold Prize category,
extending congratulations and encouragement.
“I was extremely happy to hear about winning the Gold Prize. I bought a sketchbook and crayons and completed the drawing in two days. People are using too much plastic, causing the Earth to become hotter. There are holes in the ozone layer as well. There is also a lot of plastic waste flowing into the ocean. I think it is a serious problem. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to think about the environment.”
“Earth is filled with factories. There are many factories near my grandmother’s house, so the air is hazy and bad. The space is also polluted because there is more trash than stars. Thinking that the environment will gradually improve, I drew Earth that is imagining its improvement. From now on, I shouldn’t throw trash anywhere.”
“My child has been very concerned about the environment lately. Perhaps it’s because she and I participate in the WeLoveU’s Clean WORLD Movement together and because she receives environmental education at school. She often remind me of sorting out the recycling thoroughly and avoid using plastic. She even drew a picture about how the Earth will suffer a lot because of ocean garbage, and how we cannot live happily if the Earth is sick. My child was very happy to receive the award.”
“It seems like the children understand why they should draw pictures on this topic since it’s an environmental art competition. I believe it is an educational competition of great value. I was amazed by the children’s great interest in the environment, and I felt that the Earth’s future environment would be much improved. The winning works were selected, purely based on the students’ efforts. The artworks from overseas children, who feel the environment like family, felt very pure. Their sincerity in expressing their feelings about the environment was commendable. Vishmitha, who received the Gold Prize, particularly scored high in this aspect.”
The award-winning works were exhibited for three days following the award
ceremony, highlighting the significance of environmental conservation
as depicted by children’s innocence to the public.
In this year’s competition, the title “Sick Earth” was particularly prevalent
among the entries. It seems like the voices of children saying, “Earth, please don’t be ill!”
are echoing, expressing concern for a planet suffering from environmental issues.
Drawing a world where nature and humanity coexist,
WeLoveU will continue its efforts
to fulfill the wishes of children who dream of a healthy Earth.
Ensure Citizen’s Health and Safety by Protecting Environment
On November 26, WeLoveU members and the employees of the design firm HDR
planted trees together at English Mall Park in New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.,
to beautify the area and create a safer environment for the local community.
Eighty-five volunteers teamed up in groups of five to six people
and planted 18 native trees that are well-suited to the local environment.
🌳 Tree Planting Process 🌳
Tree Species Planted:
American Sweetgum, Swamp White Oak, Sugar Maple, Red Maple, etc.
“It was a great day to help the local community with WeLoveU.
Today, many volunteers have planted many trees in record time,
and this will surely benefit future generations.”
Kevin P. Morrison Jr., HDR’s Senior Civil Engineer
Trees not only increase urban greenery and reduce carbon levels,
but also provide cool shade, enhancing the health of citizens.
Additionally, they contribute to crime prevention.
WeLoveU will continue to carry out Mom’s Garden Projects in various regions
to protect the health and safety of citizens through consistent environmental efforts.
P.S.
WeLoveU and HDR also planted 30 trees
at Ringwood State Park in New Jersey last year.
A Beautiful Legacy for Future Generations
This is the Yeonan Pier in Incheon.
On November 19, 2024, more than 500 WeLoveU members in Incheon
launched the Clean WORLD Movement at the renowned Yeonan Pier
and Fish Market area. They collected 600 kg (1,324 lbs) of waste,
contributing to the protection of the marine environment
and the cleanliness of the local community.
The members collected various types of waste, including snack bags
hidden in flower beds, cigarette butts on the ground,
and paper boxes and Styrofoam scattered across the streets,
and placed them in biodegradable bags and burlap sacks.
A special photo exhibition was held under the theme,
“Blue Incheon, a Sea of Life for Future Generations.” The exhibition displayed
photos highlighting the history of Yeonan Pier and the Fish Market
as well as the importance of the marine environment,
fostering pride among local residents and merchants
while promoting environmental awareness.
“Yeonan Pier and the Fish Market are historic landmarks and popular
tourist destinations in Incheon. As visitors from all over come,
a significant amount of trash is carelessly discarded, leading to pollution
in both the city and the sea. We hope that a clean environment
will be preserved for the benefit of past, present, and future generations.”
Jeong Ji-hyeon, WeLoveU Incheon Chapter Manager
The lively sea brimming with life and the bustling Yeonan Pier
filled with attractions can be preserved through our small efforts
and commitment to environmental protection.
WeLoveU actively promotes the Clean WORLD Movement worldwide,
committed to protecting a beautiful Earth for future generations.
Creating a Comfortable Shelter for Neighbors
Kangemi, on the outskirts of Nairobi, has limited green spaces,
making it challenging for residents to find a peaceful place to relax.
Several years ago, with the collective efforts of local authorities and residents,
Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park was established in what was once
a dumping site. However, due to inadequate water supply, the park suffered
from insufficient maintenance, resulting in the drying and dying of grass.
WeLoveU, in consultation with the Westlands Sub-County Government
of Nairobi, decided to turn the park into a comfortable shelter.
They planted trees and grass, and installed a water tank to maintain greenery
and benches for anyone to take a short break.
🌳 Park Beautification 🌳
📅 October 18–31
📅 November 1
📅 November 2
The Westlands Sub-County Government officials, inspired by the dedication
of WeLoveU, have pledged to further beautify the park in the future.
Justus Ambasu Odongo, Customer Service Officer of the Nairobi City County Government
“We’re truly grateful to WeLoveU. Your efforts have accomplished something remarkable and unprecedented. We hope that the positive impact of WeLoveU can extend to other areas in Nairobi. Many families who gathered today said that they would let their children play in this park. This park will undoubtedly provide significant assistance to the local community.”
Justus Ambasu Odongo, Customer Service Officer of the Nairobi City County Government
Brian Moses Lokeni, Vice President of the Community Based Organization [CBO] in Kangemi
“Our organization is responsible for environmental conservation in Kangemi, Westlands. We express our sincere gratitude to Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah for her contribution to creating green spaces in Kangemi. This is a transformative initiative for the local community. Children may even play soccer here. The park will have positive effects on the well-being and health of the residents, setting a good example for other areas in Nairobi without green parks.”
Brian Moses Lokeni, Vice President of the Community Based Organization [CBO] in Kangemi
The members hoped that Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park
would become a tranquil shelter that brings solace to the residents.
More
The beautification for Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park
is part of the WeLoveU’s Mom’s Garden Project.
This initiative involved covering a 1,000 m2 of the park with lush grass,
planting a total of 10 candlenut trees and ferns to create ample shade.
Water tanks and benches were also installed.