HOME
Project Context
The CEPA initiative under the Ramsar Convention actively promotes the establishment of Wetland Education Centers, recognizing their pivotal role in advocating for wetland conservation and sustainable use principles. By doing so, these centers contribute to ensuring that wetlands continue to provide vital ecosystem services, supporting the health and well-being of communities.
According to Wetland Link International (WLI), Wetland Centers serve as spaces where human-wildlife interaction occurs, fostering CEPA efforts in support of wetland preservation. Traditionally, these centers have encompassed wetland areas with interpretative displays, trails, and visitor facilities aimed at educating about wetland biodiversity and conservation. However, the concept of wetland centers is evolving rapidly, expanding beyond the conventional WLI definition.
These centers play a crucial role in connecting people with nature, fostering awareness about wetland values, and promoting sustainable lifestyles. They can range from sophisticated facilities accommodating large visitor numbers to modest, unmanned centers offering intimate wetland experiences. Regardless of their scale or format, wetland centers serve as havens for relaxation and nature immersion.
The design and construction sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and consequent environmental changes. Therefore, it's imperative that the upcoming generation of professionals in this industry receives education and training essential for addressing climate change and its associated challenges. Tertiary education programs for design, engineering, and planning students play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future, as these individuals will drive future development endeavors with a commitment to sustainable practices.
To learn more, visit www.wetlands.ph and wli.wwt.org.uk
Target UN Sustainable Development Goals
Design Concept
Bankauan, a proposed wetland center in Barangay Consuelo, Macabebe, Pampanga, aims to foster a connection between people and nature, raise awareness about wetland conservation, and promote sustainable lifestyles. Inspired by a nameless local hero who resisted Spanish colonization, the center embodies the spirit of resistance against environmental degradation. The center hopes to inspire future advocates, symbolized by the hero’s name “Bankau”, to protect the wetlands and mangrove areas through sustainable practices and activities.
The nameless hero goes by the names Tarik Sulayman, Rajah Sulaiman III, Bambalito (meaning "little fool" and "brave Moro captain"), and Bankau. The suffix "-an" in "Bankau-an" emphasizes the hope of the proposed wetland center to inspire and produce future "Bankaus" who are willing to advocate for the community and the conservation of wetlands in Barangay Consuelo through the help of a sustainable built environment and its catered activities. Perhaps the reason why the hero is nameless and goes by multiple names is that the hero can be represented by all of us.
