Lead Organiser/s Team Spoon
Co-organiser/s Black-faced Spoonbill Working Group
Alignment with the EAAFP Strategic Plan (2019–2028)
This side event supports Partnership Objective 2 of the EAAFP Strategic Plan (2019-2028) and contributes directly to the CEPA Action Plan (2019-2024) by encouraging CITIZEN understanding and action for the conservation of migratory waterbirds and their habitats. By presenting the outcomes of a cross-border exchange program among children in key Black-faced Spoonbill habitats, the event illustrates how locally rooted individuals-particularly children and youth-engage in dialogue that reinforces shared environmental values.
Concept Note
The Black-faced Spoonbill Platalea minor has shown one of the most remarkable recoveries among migratory waterbirds, with its global population exceeding 7,000 individuals for the first time in 2025—up from fewer than 300 in the late 1980s. This achievement reflects decades of dedicated international collaboration among governments, NGOs, researchers, and local communities across the Flyway.
Despite this encouraging progress, the species continues to rely heavily on on-going conservation efforts to ensure its long-term survival. In response, the Black-faced Spoonbill Working Group is developing a new International Single Species Action Plan for 2026–2036, to address emerging threats and further enhance cross-border cooperation for habitat protection, monitoring and public engagement.
Team SPOON, a youth-led NGO based in Japan, has been contributing to CEPA initiatives that connect people, nature, and societies along the flyway through creative outreach such as sharing of rings inspired by the bird’s leg bands. The team will present the outcomes of Flyway Children’s Exchange Project, an initiative that connects children from key habitats in Japan and the Republic of Korea.
Participants will also join interactive mini workshops, including a multilingual picture book reading and a message-writing session, to reflect on shared responsibility for migratory bird conservation.
The session will conclude with the announcement of the International Black-faced Spoonbill Day, a new platform to unite Flyway partners and inspire public engagement across East Asia.
This side event offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into one of the most successful conservation stories in East Asia. Attendees will not only learn about the latest developments in Black-faced Spoonbill conservation but also participate in creative, hands-on activities that highlight the importance of community and youth involvement in safeguarding migratory species.
Tentative Programme
