JOIN USGonzaga school will be celebrating “Gung-ho Green,” a specialised programme on sustainability and green building formulated for school children and learning through hands-on activities on September 29.
According to a press release, students will conduct an energy audit at school, recycle waste, understand the effects of transportation, conserve water, and support local craft and resources.
In addition, they will learn about native plants, medicinal herbs, and the importance of preserving traditional homes of Dakshina Kannada.
There will be a field trip to the arboretum at Pilikula to learn about plant species and medicinal plants native to the Western Ghats. Planting methods and preparation of compost will help children look after a new vermicompost bin at Gonzaga School.
Appreciation for building conservation and traditional crafts will be included during their visit to a traditional Guthu house and crafts village. Here, they will study about various locally manufactured products.
A humorous ‘Save Water’ skit will depict strategies on conserving water. This skit will also be performed as a street play before a community audience to increase public awareness.
A small water harvesting unit will be installed at the school premises. The school management is keen on installing special bins to collect paper, plastic and food waste, create a Gonzaga forest with native herbs and trees, and educate students on the importance of eating healthy food.
A travel survey will help the school plan for improved facilities, and sewing together a quilt from waste pieces of cloth will highlight the importance of recycling and reuse.
Empowered children will act as green ambassadors and spread the word around to their families and community. A Green Club will continue to monitor green school projects. The final presentation served with locally produced food will be on September 29 to coincide with ‘Green Apple Day of Service’ announced by the Center for Green Schools at the US Green Building Council in Washington DC.