Environmental education is crucial for protecting the planet. If the next generation understands how the environment affects their lives and the health of the Earth, they will be motivated to protect it. Equipping them with the knowledge and tools to safeguard the environment is essential for a sustainable future.
In 1998, the Department of Environment, Government of Tamil Nadu, selected VOICE Trust to lead student-driven environmental action in the Trichy District.
Since then, we have conducted hundreds of programs designed to inspire school children to make environmental protection a key part of their lives.
Given the importance of sustainability, we have regularly hosted an Agriculture School for young children. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides pollute the air and water, and their production relies heavily on fossil fuels. To counter this, with the support of AEM, we have taught students how to create compost and natural pest repellents. They also learned how to use mulch and drip irrigation systems to conserve water. These practices not only enhance the nutritional value and yield of the crops they grow, but they also help sustain the planet.
Trees are another crucial aspect of environmental protection. We have educated thousands of students on how trees purify the air and help slow global warming. Afterward, we provided them with neem, thulasi, and other saplings to plant either at home or in their schools. Alongside this, we taught them the fundamentals of sustainable farming to ensure their trees thrive.
In teaching children how to make compost to fertilize their trees, we are also educating them on recycling biowaste—another essential piece of the environmental protection puzzle.
To further reduce environmental threats caused by waste, we have mobilized student groups to participate in community clean-ups and launched our Message on Wheels program, which encourages the reduction of plastic usage.