The seventh edition of the program will benefit over 500 individuals from schools including United States, Bernardo O’Higgins, Carlos Condell, COSAFA, Pablo Neruda, Arturo Prat, and Pedro Aguirre Cerda, as well as two neighborhood associations in the commune.
Leonor González, Head of Pampa Community Affairs at SQM Yodo Nutrición Vegetal, expressed pride in being part of a program that creates shared social value and helps build environmentally-conscious communities. She noted that the project engages the community, creating a rich social and environmental fabric that enhances residents’ quality of life.
The program comprises various workshops on topics such as school and vertical gardens, and ecological practices to promote environmental preservation and sustainable use of public spaces.
Daniela Núñez, Co-founder of Verdical, explained that this year, they will collaborate with seven educational institutions and two neighborhood associations to educate participants on areas like garden beds, greenhouses, composting, and vermicomposting. These topics will be addressed throughout the year with different groups of children, teenagers, and adults.
One student who participated in the initial phase was Ebolett Amaro, a sixth-grader at the United States School, who expressed excitement about learning how plants grow and engaging in projects. She noted that as plants in their city were drying out, the program taught them how to plant and care for them.
Gloria Rojas, Director of the establishment, highlighted the importance of children learning about environmental care, recycling, composting, and reusing organic waste. She stated that this forms part of a non-official, cross-curricular curriculum, offering children the opportunity to develop awareness that contributes to their community.
Through this program, Tocopilla strengthens its commitment to sustainability and the development of environmentally-conscious communities.
