Plastic, once praised for being economical and easy to process, rapidly spread around the world after its invention. Today, it has become an essential part of daily life, but in the process of disposal, it releases toxic gases when burned and decomposes very slowly, making it a major cause of environmental pollution that destroys ecosystems. To address this, ASEZ WAO—the Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group of the World Mission Society Church of God—has set the goal of ending plastic pollution by 2040. As part of this effort, the organization has been holding a series of “Plastic Free 2040” Global Forums in various countries to promote global solidarity for this cause.

On July 21, the 4th ASEZ WAO Global Forum was held at the auditorium of the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (SENAMHI). Co-hosted by ASEZ WAO and the Ministry of Environment of Peru, the event gathered around 180 participants, including ASEZ WAO members, senior government officials, and professionals from various sectors.

The forum opened with welcoming remarks from Edgar Romero, former Vice Minister of the Environment, who said, “Environmental issues are cross-sectoral concerns that require the attention of every government department and every individual. The future depends on our actions today. Let us work together for a healthy future.”

In his congratulatory speech, Desiderio Otarola, Executive Director of the National Forestry and Wildlife Service, said, “The planet has reached the limit of its resilience. Now is the time for real action. I hope young people will take the lead in tackling environmental challenges and bring about meaningful change beyond what previous generations achieved.” During the event, the Ministry of Environment of Peru presented a Ministerial Commendation to ASEZ WAO President Kim Yong-Gap, recognizing the group’s volunteer activities and contributions to environmental protection in Peru.

The program also featured a performance and chorus by ASEZ WAO members, expressing their strong commitment to protecting the environment. Attendees waved their phone lights in rhythm, resonating with the performance’s hopeful message. ASEZ WAO members then gave a presentation on the “Plastic Free 2040” campaign, emphasizing the need for collective action, while experts followed with lectures offering insight and practical guidance. Luis Lescano, President of the National Council of Education, remarked, “Education is a key tool that promotes a culture of environmental protection and encourages community participation. Through education, we can empower the young generation to build a sustainable future.”

Participants deepened their understanding of environmental protection and reflected on how to put it into practice. Valeria Villena, an ASEZ WAO member, shared, “I learned so much about how to take care of our neighbors and the environment. I want to continue working with more people to protect it together.” Leaders from various sectors also highlighted the vital role of youth in solving environmental problems. Erika Briyit Gonzalez Cabello, District Councilor of the Municipality of Puente Piedra, said, “This forum motivates people to take action and provides direction for addressing plastic pollution. I hope young people will continue to take the lead in such initiatives and bring positive change to their communities.”

In addition to the forum, ASEZ WAO carried out several environmental activities in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment of Peru. On July 8–9 and 20, they conducted tree-planting projects along the Rimac River in Ate District and the Lurín River in Cieneguilla District. On July 18 and 21, they signed MOUs with the National Fire Department and the Ministry of Agricultural Development and Irrigation, respectively. On July 22, ASEZ WAO representatives met with senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism to discuss further cooperation and MOU agreements. From hands-on volunteer work to fostering international cooperation for solving global environmental issues, ASEZ WAO continues to move steadily toward the goal of ending plastic pollution.