The National Environmental Convention marks the first step toward building a network of local leaders committed to the protection of human rights and the environment. This network aims to connect all regions of the country to strengthen oversight, increase visibility, and foster cooperation among environmental leaders.

For this first in-person gathering, representatives from Quibdó, Vichada, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Southwestern Antioquia, Caldas, Tolima, and Nariño took part. The event provided a space for these leaders to discuss local issues, evaluate alternatives, and collaboratively draft the National Environmental Declaration a roadmap and set of principles designed to protect the environment at the national level, based on local needs and tools.

Additionally, the Convention gave participating environmental leaders the opportunity to engage in dialogue with the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Mines, addressing concerns related to safety and well-being in the context of environmental protection in Colombia.

This gathering also served as a preparatory consensus-building event ahead of COP16, allowing the regions to form support networks and strengthen their collective voice in representing local environmental challenges.