Energy, Geology and Environment Fortnight in São Tomé and Príncipe

The General Directorate for Natural Resources and Energy (DGRNE) through its Energy Directorate (DE-DGRNE), in partnership with the Directorate of Geology and Mines (DGM-DGRNE) and the General Directorate for the Environment (DGA), is celebrating, from May 23rd to June 5th, the Energy, Geology and Environment Fortnight.

This commemoration comes under the World Energy Day (May 29), the International Geology Day (30 May) and the Environment Day (5 June), co-financed by UNIDO through the project "Promoting Investment in Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in STP".

The event aims to inform and raise awareness to the public about the human impacts on the planet so that a conscious posture in relation to the use of natural resources is acquired, promoting environmental action, as well as the efficient use of electricity in São Tomé and Príncipe.

In addition, it also aims to  appeal to the population and governments about the importance of preserving our resources and the need for laws that guarantee development, but without negatively  affect the  environment, that is, to ensure sustainable development.

The central activity for the opening of the week took place on May 23rd with the organisation of a workshop at the Hotel Praia that was attended by all stakeholders and technicians from the Autonomous region of Príncipe who deal directly or indirectly with the issue of sustainability. During the activity, some awareness panels were presented, and discussions were held in various areas. During the event, the launch of a project funded by the Portuguese Republic was also highlighted.

The project is called "Energy Valuation of Plant Biomass and Energy Efficiency" and is being implemented by the DGRNE Directorate of Energy, Directorate of Forests and Biodiversity and the Directorate of Environment in collaboration with the Directorate General of Energy and Geology of Portugal.

During the fortnight, training sessions will be held in various areas of the energy sector for industry technicians, journalists, and legal power in the field of energy. The fortnight culminates with the realization of a National Environment Fair in the hall of Casa CACAU/UCLA in Parque Popular with exhibition of posters, photographs, films about environment and energy.