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MISS EARTH PARAGUAY
GRETHA MATIAUDA
DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD/GROWING YEARS
From a young age, I discovered my love for Paraguayan dance and represented my school, winning awards along the way. I also developed a passion for languages and learned Guarani, Portuguese, English, and Italian. Singing became another outlet for me, as I enjoyed performing songs in different languages. I had a deep connection to the artistic world and a strong appreciation for nature, even promoting environmental awareness within my family by giving up plastic bags. Despite facing bullying in school, I was able to grow and become stronger from those difficult experiences. At 11, I received a pet named "titi" who became my faithful companion. The age of 12 brought the news of a new family member, and although my mother's pregnancy had complications, my baby brother was born healthy. At 13, I solidified my passion for music and fashion by participating in my first fashion show and campaign. My journey of growth was marked by perseverance and determination.
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT?
One of the most memorable moments of my childhood was when I was 11 years old and received the most special gift: my pet named "titi". From that moment on, he became my faithful companion and confidant, giving me unconditional love and support during those crucial years of growing up. Our special connection made this moment remain engraved in my memory as an unforgettable memory of my childhood.
ANY SPECIAL STORIES OR FACTS ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
My family is incredibly close-knit and supportive. We share a deep bond and enjoy spending quality time together. One special fact about my family is that we have a tradition of gathering for Sunday dinners, where we share delicious meals, laughter, and stories. We also love to travel together, exploring new places and creating wonderful memories. Another unique aspect is our shared passion for volunteering; we often engage in community service activities together, promoting the spirit of giving back. These experiences have strengthened our family ties and made us appreciate the value of love, compassion, and togetherness.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?
On the last end-of-year trip with my school, I had the amazing opportunity to participate in an exciting snorkeling activity. We were taken to a beautiful coral reef, where I was able to dive into the crystal clear waters and explore the fascinating underwater world. Swimming alongside colorful fish, admiring the diversity of corals and discovering the marine life up close was a truly amazing experience.
The sensation of floating on the surface of the water, observing the vibrant colors and underwater activity, left me speechless. I felt a special connection with nature and a deep respect for the ocean. In addition, sharing this experience with my friends and classmates made it even more memorable, creating bonds and memories that I will treasure forever.
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE TO PROMOTE ECOTOURISM & CLIMATE CHANGE?
As Miss Earth Paraguay, I have the privilege of fighting for environmental preservation and climate change awareness. Some tips to promote ecotourism and raise awareness about climate change:
- Education and Awareness: It is essential to educate local communities and tourists about the importance of conservation and how sustainable practices can make a difference. Organizing talks, workshops and educational events can help raise awareness.
- Promoting Sustainable Destinations: Highlight and promote tourism destinations that practice ecotourism and sustainability. This can include protected natural areas, eco-hotels and environmentally friendly outdoor activities.
- Community Involvement: Involving local communities in ecotourism initiatives can generate a sense of ownership and pride, while providing sustainable economic opportunities for them.
- Encourage Sustainable Transportation: Promote the use of public transportation, bicycles and walking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Incentives can also be offered for those who choose greener transportation options.
-Plastic Reduction: Promote campaigns to reduce plastic consumption in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions such as "Plastic-Free July" and encourage the use of reusable bags and refillable water bottles.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Highlight the importance of biological diversity and how ecotourism can help protect endangered species and their natural habitats.
- Responsible Use of Natural Resources: Educate about the responsible use of natural resources, such as water and energy. Small actions, such as turning off lights and reducing water consumption, can make a difference.
- Encourage Research and Innovation: Support research and development of eco-friendly technologies that can be used in the tourism industry to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Active Participation: Get actively involved in campaigns and movements related to climate change and environmental conservation. Use the platform as Miss Earth to raise awareness and mobilize people towards a more sustainable future.
By working together and adopting sustainable practices, we can promote ecotourism, mitigate climate change and preserve our beautiful planet for future generations.
- Education and Awareness: It is essential to educate local communities and tourists about the importance of conservation and how sustainable practices can make a difference. Organizing talks, workshops and educational events can help raise awareness.
- Promoting Sustainable Destinations: Highlight and promote tourism destinations that practice ecotourism and sustainability. This can include protected natural areas, eco-hotels and environmentally friendly outdoor activities.
- Community Involvement: Involving local communities in ecotourism initiatives can generate a sense of ownership and pride, while providing sustainable economic opportunities for them.
- Encourage Sustainable Transportation: Promote the use of public transportation, bicycles and walking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Incentives can also be offered for those who choose greener transportation options.
-Plastic Reduction: Promote campaigns to reduce plastic consumption in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions such as "Plastic-Free July" and encourage the use of reusable bags and refillable water bottles.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Highlight the importance of biological diversity and how ecotourism can help protect endangered species and their natural habitats.
- Responsible Use of Natural Resources: Educate about the responsible use of natural resources, such as water and energy. Small actions, such as turning off lights and reducing water consumption, can make a difference.
- Encourage Research and Innovation: Support research and development of eco-friendly technologies that can be used in the tourism industry to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Active Participation: Get actively involved in campaigns and movements related to climate change and environmental conservation. Use the platform as Miss Earth to raise awareness and mobilize people towards a more sustainable future.
By working together and adopting sustainable practices, we can promote ecotourism, mitigate climate change and preserve our beautiful planet for future generations.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY?
What makes me most proud of my beloved Paraguay is its extraordinary biodiversity and the richness of our natural landscapes. From lush forests to meandering rivers to unique flora and fauna, Paraguay is truly a natural treasure. This diversity not only provides us with an incredibly beautiful environment, but also reminds us of the critical importance of preserving our environment. As Miss Earth Paraguay, my pride is transformed into a deep responsibility. I am committed to working tirelessly to protect and preserve this wonderful biodiversity, promoting sustainability, environmental education and ecological awareness in our society. Paraguay has a special place in my heart, and I want to make sure that future generations can also enjoy the incredible natural beauty that our country has to offer.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVOCACY?
Social Project: I participate in social activities and volunteer projects that allow me to contribute to the community and demonstrate my commitment to causes. I also have the honor of working as an ambassador for sustainable fashion with the United Nations Development Program in Paraguay and I lead the environmental project called Eco Action that promotes actions to fight Climate Change. These collaborations have allowed me to promote concrete actions to protect our environment and promote positive change in our society.