Chongqing - A transformative movement is underway in the bustling megacity of Chongqing, China, known for its sprawling urban landscape and rich cultural history. It's not the skyline, already bristling with skyscrapers, that's changing, but the spirits and minds of the city's youngest residents.

Over the past five years, Sun Zhi, founder of Optimistic Earth, an organization committed to environmental education, has embarked on a mission to meld passion with purpose. Through innovative educational programs, he guides children to become stewards of their environment.

Born into a family that valued freedom and exploration over rigid expectations, Sun was encouraged to follow his interests and passions from a young age.

Sun, a graduate of Chongqing Technology and Business University with a degree in Marketing, initially pursued a career in business after completing his studies. However, his university years exposed him to various public welfare projects, igniting a passion for environmental conservation.

It begins with his decision to leave a promising career in 2016 to pursue a passion for education, initially focusing on nature and outdoor activities. "I noticed that many children today have a somewhat shallow emotional range and deal with issues in a very one-dimensional way. This is often because they haven't been taught to recognize or express their feelings effectively," Sun said.

In 2019, Sun founded Optimistic Earth, an organization dedicated to environmental education and cultivating a deep sense of responsibility and love for the natural world among children.

The various activities, ranging from citizen science projects to immersive experiences in diverse ecosystems, are designed to expose children to the wonders of the natural world and the importance of conservation. Through firsthand experiences, children learn about different species, ecosystems, and the impact of climate change, gaining a broader perspective on the world and their role in protecting it. 

These projects provide valuable scientific data and instill in children the understanding that they can contribute meaningfully to environmental conservation.

"Over 20,000 children participate in more than 20 voluntary public welfare projects. These activities not only educate children about environmental issues but also instill a sense of responsibility towards the planet," said Sun. 

These experiences are educational and transformative, often leading to a lasting passion for environmental stewardship.

Chongqing is also known as the "City of Eagles." To protect its avian inhabitants and raise awareness about bird conservation, one of the flagship programs involves training children to participate in bird conservation efforts, particularly focusing on preventing bird collisions in urban areas. 

These young participants learn to survey buildings for potential hazards, apply preventive measures on windows, and even assist in rescuing injured birds. Such hands-on activities contribute to the city's biodiversity efforts and instill a sense of agency and accomplishment in the children involved.

"When children learn to identify birds, plant mangrove seedlings, or monitor butterfly migrations, they're not just becoming citizen scientists; they're learning empathy, responsibility, and the importance of collective action," added Sun.

The ripple effects of Optimistic Earth's work are palpable within the local community. Parents report a marked increase in their children's awareness of environmental issues and a newfound enthusiasm for nature conservation. Schools have noted the program's positive impact on students' overall engagement and academic performance, particularly in science and social studies.

Looking ahead, Sun aims to bridge the gap between environmental NGOs and the wider community, advocating for greater recognition and support for impactful conservation projects. "In fact, these NGOs are already well-established in a particular field and know nature well, but they lack a bridge to the market. I want to build bridges to inform more people about their projects," Sun said.

Sun's dedication to environmental education extends beyond the children; it's about inspiring a broader societal shift toward sustainability and conservation. He envisions a future where every small, positive change contributes to a more optimistic Earth. Through his work, Sun hopes to plant the seeds of environmental consciousness in young minds, believing that these seeds will grow into a forest of guardians for our planet.

As the city actively fosters the "Spirit of Chongqing City" and seeks international engagement, its culture and tourism sectors vividly represent its ethos, reflecting an ambitious and forward-looking spirit. Through ongoing innovation and commitment, Chongqing continues to present itself as a modern, vibrant, and welcoming city, steadfastly cherishing its cultural heritage.

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