05/06/2026
🌱 Growing Environmental Champions, One School at a Time! 🌱
Eco-Changemakers continue to drive meaningful climate action and environmental awareness across participating schools through practical, learner-led activities focused on sustainability, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship.
As part of our Environmental Awareness Initiative, the Changemakers actively participated in planting a variety of indigenous and fruit-bearing trees and plants across their schools. The activities included preparing the soil, positioning trees correctly, covering the roots, and watering the newly planted trees. These hands-on experiences provided Changemakers and their peers at various schools with valuable knowledge about environmental conservation, climate change, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting indigenous plant species within their communities.
To promote biodiversity and sustainability, the Changemakers intentionally selected different tree species for each school rather than planting the same type of tree everywhere. This approach exposed learners to a wider understanding of indigenous vegetation and its ecological importance.
Among the species planted were:
1.🌳 Indigenous trees selected to enhance biodiversity and strengthen local ecosystems.
2.🥭 A mango tree which will contribute to future food sustainability while beautifying the school environment.
3.🍋🍊 A unique dual fruit-bearing tree producing both lemons and naartjies, providing both environmental and nutritional value.
4.🌿 An indigenous edible plant that requires minimal water and maintenance, promoting sustainable gardening practices and water conservation.
To support the long-term sustainability of the project, learners received practical training on proper tree and plant maintenance, including seasonal watering methods. They learned that during winter, trees require less frequent but deeper watering due to reduced evaporation, while summer requires more regular watering to prevent dehydration caused by higher temperatures. Learners were also introduced to the importance of using nutrient-rich soil where necessary to support healthy growth and development.
These activities are helping young people become environmental ambassadors within their schools and communities while contributing towards greener, healthier, and more climate-resilient environments.
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