THE Environmental Community Health Organisation (ECHO) is encouraging children and young adults to become a part of its force to protect and keep the environment healthy and safe.

ECHO said in a press statement on Monday that those who are interested can contact ECHO coaches at their schools.
Just a few days ago, ECHO said it successfully concluded a four-day nature camp on the Soesdyke Highway which saw children from different regions of Guyana participating, including those from Regions 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) and 5(Mahaica/Berbice).
The objectives of the nature camp were to raise awareness of the importance of the environment to the human society, to encourage children to explore and interact with nature and to provide a forum for exchange of information on approaches to environmental issues.
The activities included nature walks, constructing a nature table, swimming, outdoor and indoor nature games and talks about the conservation of environmental resources.
According to the statement, representative of PAHO/WHO, Adrainaus Vlugman, spoke to the campers about leadership and the natural environment.
In his address, ECHO said he encouraged members to be bold, to speak out against environmental ills and unfriendly practices including littering and improper disposal of garbage in local communities.
ECHO said it remains grateful to its partners and friends including Bounty Farm, Ali of Bourda, Nigel’s Supermarket, Humphrey Bakery, Oriental Furniture Store and Nobel House. ECHO is also grateful to all the teachers and coaches who attended the event.
All ECHO club members were encouraged to write a short essay on the nature camp and this will be used as the basis for a competition next term among ECHO clubs.