Celebrate Environmental Defender’s Day with forum «Chronicles of Conservation: The Power of Image in Nature Conservation»

On the occasion of the International Day of the Environmental Defender, the group Photoguardians of Nature, in collaboration with Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña (UNPHU), hosted the forum “Chronicles of Conservation: The Power of the Image in Nature Conservation.» The event brought together well-known environmentalists, photographers, and experts, who discussed the transformative role of photography in protecting the environment in the Dominican Republic.

Claudia Acra, Vice-Chancellor of Research, Linkage, and Internationalization at UNPHU, made the opening remarks: “Hosting this forum at our university is a clear expression of our commitment to sustainability, critical thinking, and fostering a culture of respect for the environment. As a university, we believe that education also involves teaching students to care for, protect, and defend our natural heritage.”

The forum relied on the participation of the Minister of Environment, Paíno Henríquez, who emphasized the vital role of nature photographers in environmental protection.

Gibel Orsini, director of RD Green Magazine and activity coordinator, said that this event aims to highlight the scientific, cultural, and educational value of nature photography. “This Chronicles of Conservation Forum is a space to reflect on the power of the image in environmental and nature conservation, to recognize those who have dedicated their lives to protecting it, and to renew our collective commitment to sustainability,” Orsini explained.

During the day, in the Max Henríquez Ureña room at UNPHU, the central panel “The power of the image in conservation” took place, featuring Carlos Batista, Andrés Ferrer, Yvonne Arias, Luis Carvajal, and Rita Sellares. Panelists discussed how images can serve as a catalyst for awareness, advocacy, and action to preserve biodiversity.

Among the speakers at the forum were Pedro Genaro, with the theme “Citizen of Nature”; Marvin del Cid, with “Urban Biodiversity: My Home, an Ecosystem”; Judá Isaí, who presented “Between Threats and Hope: the Fate of Crocodiles in DR”; and José Alejandro Álvarez, with the presentation.

“Under the carpet of the sea: the hidden treasures of our natural heritage and its threats.” The event ended with a keynote address by biologist Sixto Incháustegui: “Photography as an instrument to know natural history.»

The event also honored top environmental defenders for their dedication to conservation. On behalf of the winners, Mrs. Pirigua Bonetti delivered a speech that touched everyone in attendance.

Gibel Orsini, director of RD Verde Magazine, coordinated the event and emphasized that the forum aims to inspire young people and raise awareness about the importance of protecting ecosystems through visual storytelling.

The forum was supported by Banco Popular, Compañía de Luz y Fuerza de Las Terrenas, Energas, Grupo Mallén, UNPHU, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, INDUBAN, Revista RD Verde, and Fundación Imagen ’83.’ It served as a meeting point to inspire, learn, and renew the collective commitment to sustainability. A must-attend for nature and photography enthusiasts.