Mr. Joaozinho da Costa, one of the organizers of the events stated, "We are all aware that human activities such as the slash-and-burn method used in agriculture contributes to the worsening condition of our environment. Such activities not only destroy the environment but also threaten human lives. Landslides and erosion as a consequence of cutting down trees and burning the bushes destroys ecosystem balance as well as erodes good soil for highland agriculture. The increased rainfall as one of the potential impact of climate change further worsens the occurrence of landslides in our area.

This could have been lessened if there are trees whose roots binds soil and prevent erosion and landslides. I would say that we could have known this for long but we keep on ignoring and thinking that our environment will not get back on us. Such is not the case. Hence, let’s stand up and protect our environment that provides us our water, food and air. Let’s always be green!"

Article contributed by Mr. Joaozinho da Costa Corbafo Noronha of National University of Timor-Leste, participant of the 2nd EAS Youth Forum, East Asian Seas Congress 2009.