Earth Day on 22 April was celebrated at the Dassenberg Waldorf School with the unveiling of a fruit and vegetable garden.
The garden was donated to the school by the Recycling and Economic Development Initiative of South Africa (REDISA).
Observed annually across the globe, Earth Day serves to promote environmental conservation and recycling, and encourages people to perform acts of service to the earth.
The garden, which includes 20 fruit trees, 300 types of vegetables and numerous support species, incorporates waste material such as cardboard and tyres, and illustrates how waste can be turned into worth to protect the earth.
Speaking at the event, REDISA Director and Head of Corporate Social Investment, Charlie Kirk, said it’s important to start teaching children from a young age about the importance of taking care of the environment and the consequences of not recycling waste.
“We have a moral obligation to protect the earth for the sake of future generations. If we do not act now, what will we be leaving behind for our children who will inherit the earth?”
Each child was provided with a story colouring-in book in their mother tongue, which teaches them about the dangers of not recycling waste and how tyres can be used to create things of value. Thrilled learners also received pencil cases made from tyres that were filled with stationery.
Garden designers and creators Guerilla House transformed a barren piece of land into an area that will grow into an oasis for the children.
Atlantis Ward Councillor Barbara Rass ended the day’s proceedings with a few words: “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. The message and education that we’ve received today must be spread within our community. Many people attempt to establish food gardens in Atlantis, but struggle to sustain them.”
