The day began with an address by Ms. Shawna Nemesia Rebello (Consultant – AOE) and a meditative prayer led by Fr. Leon Cruz SDB (Director – DBYS). The keynote speaker, Dr. Jean D’Cunha, a retired Senior Global Adviser at UN Women, initiated a dialogue on climate issues. A video on the struggles of women in vulnerable regions highlighted the human dimension of climate change, followed by an engaging discussion on greenhouse gases, rising global temperatures, and other pressing concerns.

Participants were divided into groups to address three key questions: the challenges Mumbai faces due to climate change, its impact on women and youth, and practical steps for sustainable living in homes, colleges, and communities. Dr. D’Cunha connected these reflections to the global agenda of COP30, scheduled for November.

In the afternoon, creativity took center stage as participants designed a “Garden of Peace” using waste materials or paintings. Judges Fr. Peter Gonsalves SDB and Ms. Gwyneth Rasquinha awarded prizes, including gift cards for nature trails and courses. Each participant also received a cloth bag as a sustainable takeaway.

The event itself modelled eco-friendly practices by avoiding disposable materials and single-use plastics, with meals served using reusable utensils. Participant Joanne De Sa described COPeace as “an amazing and eye-opening experience… fun and insightful, deepening my understanding of environmental issues and inspiring me to take positive action.”