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Environment Education Program

Environment Education Program (EEP) Supported by GEER Foundation

On February 16, 2024, at Shri M.D. Mehta District Science Center, Darbargadh, Dhrol, Jamnagar district, and on February 19, 2024, at the BRC building in Visavadar taluka, Gramin Vikas Trust, in collaboration with the Gir Foundation, successfully organized an Environment Education Program (EEP) focusing on “101 Ways to Reuse Plastic Waste.” The program aimed to raise awareness about plastic waste management and promote eco-friendly practices among students and educators.

A total of 90 students, 10 teachers, and 5 representatives from Gramin Vikas Trust participated in this day-long event, which ran from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM on both days.

Inaugural Session

The training began with the registration of participants, followed by the distribution of customized kits provided by the Gir Foundation to all students. The event officially commenced with a lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge. Distinguished dignitaries such as Mrs. Sudhaben Khandheriya and Mr. Bipinbhai Waghmashi, Secretary of Shri M.D. Mehta District Science Center, graced the event. They emphasized the urgent need to minimize plastic usage and explore sustainable alternatives to reduce environmental harm.

Key Activities

1. Orientation on Mission LiFE:
The session was spearheaded by Mr. Sanjay Pandya, a representative of Gramin Vikas Trust, who introduced participants to the concept of “Mission LiFE” (Lifestyle for Environment). Students were educated about the importance of adopting environmentally conscious practices in their daily lives and shared their insights on sustainable living.

2. Understanding Plastic Pollution:
Participants were briefed on the alarming issue of plastic pollution, its detrimental impacts on ecosystems, and the health risks it poses to humans and wildlife. The session highlighted India's commitment to becoming a plastic-free nation, with various campaigns encouraging reduced consumption of single-use plastics like bags, bottles, and straws.

3. Promoting Eco-Friendly Habits:
The program motivated participants to adopt eco-friendly practices, including:

• Using cloth bags as alternatives to plastic bags.
• Carrying reusable water bottles.
• Avoiding single-use plastic cutlery.

Discussions also covered initiatives to enhance waste management systems, recycling, and upcycling plastic waste.

Government Policies and Collective Action

The program outlined government policies designed to regulate plastic usage and promote alternatives like paper, jute, and fabric. It stressed the importance of collective action from individuals, businesses, and governments to transition to a plastic-free India. Participants were encouraged to develop innovative solutions and adopt sustainable lifestyles to protect the environment and contribute to the nation’s overall well-being.

Practical Demonstrations and Group Activities

The training program featured hands-on demonstrations on how to creatively reuse plastic waste. Students were introduced to various activities and processes, showcasing practical ways to turn waste into valuable resources.

Participants worked in groups to create models and demonstrations using plastic waste, illustrating the concept of “waste to best.” The interactive session allowed students to present their creations, and the most innovative models were awarded prizes to acknowledge their efforts.

Plastic-Free Lifestyle Awareness

Students were informed about the growing movement toward making India a plastic-free nation. The session highlighted:

• The harmful effects of plastic pollution on the environment.
• Strategies to reduce single-use plastics.
• Sustainable alternatives to plastics, such as biodegradable materials.

Participants also engaged in discussions on how these practices could be implemented at community and household levels.

Closing Ceremony

The event concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony where all participants received certificates of participation. Teachers and students shared their feedback, highlighting the program's effectiveness in imparting practical knowledge and creating awareness about environmental sustainability.

The Gramin Vikas Trust expressed its gratitude to the GEER Foundation and the GEER Foundation for their support and collaboration in making the Environment Education Program a resounding success.

Impact and Takeaway

This initiative empowered students and teachers with the skills and knowledge to actively contribute to environmental conservation. By integrating these practices into their daily lives, participants can inspire their communities to adopt sustainable methods and contribute toward achieving a cleaner, greener future.

The program emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and underscored the critical role of education in addressing global environmental challenges.