Alexandra Lira – Elementary School Teacher

Second graders recently had a unique experience that combines
learning, creativity and environmental engagement. Inspired by a visit to the “Voices for the
Climate” park, where they explored a recycling plant and reflected on the impact of
pollution, the children embarked on a project that transformed and impacted their
commitment to their school community: the creation of a vertical garden at school.
During the visit, the students observed how waste can become useful resources
if managed properly. This raised questions such as: How can we
contribute from our school to take care of the environment? Motivated by these concerns,
began planning the garden, integrating recycling and innovative technology into its design. With the
support of their teachers and families, the students collected recyclable materials such as plastic bottles
and wood to build the structure. In addition, they designed a drip irrigation system, which
allowed them to optimize water use and care for the plants efficiently.
Catalina, one of the students, shared, “I really liked using the bottles for the garden.
Now I know I can reuse the bottles to do something to improve the world.” For his
part, Luciano added: “I learned that water is very important and that we can save it with
this garden.”
The vertical garden went from being an experience to becoming a learning space
community. In it, students have begun to plant different seeds while putting into
practice values such as responsibility, teamwork and creativity. This experience
allowed them to connect concepts seen in class, such as water care and biodiversity, with
practical and meaningful actions.
This project stands out for its contextualized approach: the children not only learned about
sustainability, but also became agents of change in their school community. This
initiative demonstrates that, from an early age, students can make a difference and
contribute to a more sustainable world.
This vertical garden is not only a visual and ecological achievement, but also an invaluable lesson on
how commitment and creativity can transform ideas into concrete actions.