Teachers’ Workshop: Exploring Sustainability through Waste Repurposing

On August 12, 2023, educators, members of the Sustainable School Team, and representatives from the City of Cape Town came together for an enlightening and impactful teacher workshop at the Kraaifontein Integrated Waste Management Facility. The event aimed to promote environmental education and conscious living within educational institutions. This workshop focused on the critical theme of Production Consumption and Waste, offering a platform for educators to collaborate, learn, and explore innovative ways to repurpose waste.

The workshop proved to be a remarkable opportunity for teachers to share insights, ideas, and experiences related to their respective eco clubs. Led by our schools coordinator Lanah, the Eco Club discussion provided a space for educators to discuss the existence of eco clubs within their schools, articulate their aspirations for these clubs, and delve into strategies for effectively engaging students. The interactive session not only fostered networking among teachers but also sparked a brainstorming process, yielding fresh and exciting methods to leverage the abundant resources available on the sustainable school hub.

One of the highlights of the day was the insightful presentation by Alicia Le Roux, a representative from the City of Cape Town, who addressed the vital topic of Urban Waste Management. This presentation shed light on the challenges posed by waste generation and consumption within urban environments. Ms. Le Roux emphasised the importance of community involvement, innovative approaches to waste management, and collaborative efforts to minimize the impact of waste on our cities and ecosystems. Her expertise provided educators with valuable insights that they could pass on to their students, nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.

The culmination of the workshop included an in-depth tour of the Kraaifontein Integrated Waste Management Facility. This hands-on experience allowed participants to witness the entire process of material recovery, gaining a profound understanding of waste management strategies and the importance of proper waste disposal. The tour not only provided educators with valuable information for their own teaching purposes but also served as an impactful lesson in sustainable practices.

As we reflect on this successful teacher workshop, it’s evident that the event achieved its goals of knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration. The Sustainable Schools Programme continues to empower educators with the tools to instill environmental consciousness in their students. By focusing on themes such as Production Consumption and Waste, the programme not only addresses critical global issues but also equips young minds with the skills needed to create a more sustainable future.

The event reinforced the idea that change begins with educators, and their dedication to nurturing environmentally aware learners can contribute significantly to building a better world.

Let’s continue to learn, share, and inspire for a greener and more sustainable future.