PURE Green

An environment-based education program centered on hands-on, sustainable practices can significantly enhance students' understanding of ecological principles and their role in preserving the environment. By integrating innovative and practical projects like community gardens, rainwater harvesting systems, Miyawaki forests, and river barrel water systems, students can learn through real-world applications while fostering a deeper connection with nature.

1. Community/School Kitchen Gardens
   • Objective: Teach students about food security, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. This program helps as a tool for children to learn about growing their own food and also ensure nutritional security.
   • Activities:
     • Planting and maintaining a variety of crops.
     • Learning composting techniques to reduce organic waste.
     • Conducting workshops on the importance of pollinators and soil health.
2. Rainwater Harvesting Systems
   • Objective: Demonstrate methods to conserve water and reduce dependency on traditional water sources.
   • Activities:
     • Installing rainwater collection systems in schools or local communities.
     • Using harvested water for irrigation, cleaning, or other sustainable purposes.
     • Exploring water conservation practices through field demonstrations.
3. Miyawaki Forests
   • Objective: Promote rapid reforestation and awareness about urban green spaces.
   • Activities:
     • Planting dense native vegetation using the Miyawaki method.
     • Monitoring biodiversity within the micro-forest.
     • Engaging students in long-term caretaking to observe ecological succession.

As a pilot, a forest was planted using the Miyawaki method in a government boys highschool in Warangal district of Telangana state in India. Two acres of unused school owned land was put to good use- local varieties of grass, shrubs and fruit trees were planted. Water source, motor and compound wall construction were also part of the project.

4. River Barrel Water Systems
   • Objective: Provide a practical understanding of water filtration and its importance in maintaining clean water sources.
   • Activities:
     • Building small-scale river barrel systems to filter rain or river water.
     • Educating on waterborne diseases and the importance of clean drinking water.
     • Developing prototypes to be implemented in water-scarce areas.