Join us for the 13th WEEC 2026 in Perth, Australia, where the programming is thoughtfully designed with a Country-centred view, reflecting the unique relationship between people, place, and education. Rooted in the Australian context, this approach emphasises the deep, enduring connection our First Nations communities have with the land and waters we call Country.
In this spirit, environmental education in Australia is understood not just as a means to learn about nature, but as a practice. An educational approach to foster a profound connection with our land and waters, its ecosystems, and its people.
The 13th WEEC 2026 embodies this philosophy, and invites participants to explore the environmental, cultural, and educational significance of Country in a truly immersive and meaningful way.
This Congress will provide participants with not just knowledge, but a deepened understanding of how environmental education can be transformative and regenerative when it is rooted in the connection between people and place. The illustration above adapts a diagram by German architect Steffen Lehmann (Eco v Ego, 2010) to describe the shift from a human-centred to a Country-centred learning journey.
DAY 1: FIELD TRIPS TO EXPERIENCE COUNTRY
Monday, 21 September 2026
Begin your journey by stepping onto the land and waters with immersive field trips. Delegates will explore Perth’s diverse ecosystems. Meet with local leaders in environmental and cultural education about key concepts, including Connection to Country. These excursions will provide real-world insights into how knowledge and educational approaches are applied to foster environmental stewardship in current and future generations.
DAYS 2 – 4: CONGRESS AND CONFERENCE SESSIONS
Tuesday, 22 September 2026 to Thursday, 24 September 2026
For the next three days, engage with global leaders in environmental education during our Congress sessions. The program will focus on our six key themes, each designed to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and spark dialogue on enhancing educational outcomes in sustainability. This is an opportunity to hear from experts, participate in dynamic discussions, and connect with peers from around the world. Together, we’ll explore how environmental education can address pressing global challenges while learning from the diverse experiences of different regions.
DAY 5: EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING BACK ON COUNTRY
Friday, 25 September 2026
On the final day, the conference will shift to alternative locations outside the main venue, offering a deeper, more experiential engagement with the cultural and environmental insights shared throughout the Congress. Delegates will participate in immersive activities, conference sessions, and discussions to reconnect and deepen their cultural learnings and environmental perspectives of the previous days into a holistic and meaningful experience.