Yogyakarta, April 22–May 9, 2025 — The Earth is not an inheritance from our ancestors but a trust for future generations. This spirit flowed through every moment of “Stories from Jogja for the Earth,” a series of Earth Day commemorative events that brought together the energy of multiple generations, communities, and ideas.

Seven civil society organizations — Relung Indonesia Foundation, Javan Wildlife Institute (JAWI), Center for Orangutan Protection (COP), Swara Owa, Teman Berjalan, Jogja Birdwatching Association (PPBJ), and Yogyakarta Conservation Action Foundation (4K) — united in two key activities: a public walk and visual campaign at Malioboro on April 22, and a public talk entitled “Gen-Z and Community Empowerment for Environmental Sustainability” at the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University, on May 9.

From Public Walks to Real Action

That day, Malioboro was not only bustling with tourists but also filled with the spirit of change. Young people in campaign shirts held posters of earth and handed out environmental messages to the public. Amidst the crowds, they brought the voices of the forest, rivers, and scarred land—through illustrations, poetry, and brief but stirring orations.

This was not merely a theatrical gesture; it was a call to action. A revival of public space as a space for advocacy. A new way to voice concern—one that embraces rather than antagonizes.

Gen-Z and Empowerment: Collaboration, Not Instruction

In a warm and engaging discussion, speakers highlighted a community empowerment approach rooted in partnership. Farah Dini from JAWI emphasized that forest-edge communities must be seen as strategic partners in conservation, not merely as recipients of aid.

“Many don’t harm the forest because they want to, but because they have no choice. So our solutions must address needs—not just blame,” Farah explained.

Through ecotourism and youth engagement, JAWI repositions conservation from an exclusive effort into a shared movement. Conservation here is not only about saving species, but also about creating better livelihoods.

Indira from the Center for Orangutan Protection (COP) emphasized the role of youth in digital conservation. Volunteers are involved in forest patrols, wildlife documentation, and creative online campaigns.

“Gen-Z should not be treated merely as targets of education. They are key actors—mobilizers, storytellers, and protectors of the narrative,” said Indira.

Visual Ecology and Stories that Move

Equally important is how environmental stories are told. Wildlife photographer Ignas Dwi Wardhana highlighted the emotional power of visuals in sparking awareness. In his view, images often reach deeper than lectures or technical reports.

“Words can only go so far, but images transcend time and distance,” said Ignas. Visual storytelling builds an emotional bridge between the public and the often invisible ecological crisis.

Documentary Film Screening Session: Powerful Visual Narratives

Following the talkshow session, the event came alive with a screening of short documentary films in collaboration with the Forum Film Dokumenter (FFD). Two films were showcased to deepen the message of conservation and the struggles of local communities.

The first film, “Back to the Sea” by 4K, tells the true story of communities striving to preserve sea turtles, highlighting efforts to protect this species that has long been part of their traditions and local identity. This film presents a heartfelt visual narrative that portrays the harmonious relationship between humans and nature—one that must be preserved.

The second film, titled “Tour on Mud (Ojek LUSI)” by FFD, offers a perspective on community adaptation to environmental changes caused by the Lapindo mudflow disaster. Through compelling imagery, the film emphasizes the urgency of behavioral change to sustain life together.

Both films serve not just as visual entertainment but as educational mediums that open eyes, touch hearts, and stir awareness about the inseparable bond between humans and the environment.

Relung’s Role: Weaving Narratives, Sustaining Meaning

For Relung Indonesia, participating in this event is part of its commitment to building an ecosystem of environmental communication rooted in justice, participation, and local wisdom. It also reflects the intersection between the organization’s mission and Gen-Z’s creative drive to voice their concern for the planet.

“We must narrate conservation and environmental sustainability in ways that resonate with today’s world. It’s not just about presenting data—it’s about sparking hope through genuine, relatable stories,” said Eka Bagus Panuntun, a representative of Relung Indonesia.

Through this initiative, Relung strengthens its position as a bridge across generations, communities, and perspectives.

The Earth Is Now in Our Hands

This event is not an ending but a beginning—a launchpad for a more structured movement. Participants, facilitators, and community representatives agreed to form the “Yogyakarta Green Collaboration Forum”, which will carry forward public education and local advocacy efforts. These include annual action plans such as digital-based conservation training and visual campaigns in schools.

Because ultimately, the Earth is not ours to own—we are merely its caretakers. And before time runs out, let’s protect this trust together. 🌍🌱