CQS GREEN TEAM IN THE MOUNT VIC NEWSLETTER

Guest post by Caitlin Fecteau

Meet the Locals - The Green Team

March 2017

By: Caitlin Fecteau

The Green Team or “eco-group” of Clyde Quay School, led by teacher Sandy O’Brien, has nearly twenty students
years 5-8 interested in climate change and environmental initiatives. Members take turns doing di erent daily jobs like checking the compost bin, or take to the community with sorting recycling stations at public events.

When asked why eco-group is important to them, Zara and Lillian said they, “want to help this world because it’s the only one we can live on.” Another chimed in, “I don’t really want to move to Mars.” Freya added the advice, “Respect what you take, respect the environment and take only what you need not what you want.”

I then asked the group what they wished everyone would do differently to be more considerate of the planet. Emmanuel’s immediate response was, “Reuse!” Hazel suggested, “when you go to the store bring your own bags.” “Don’t use plastic, use alternatives,” said another member.
I showed up for a chat with these amazing humans and instead they gave me a full tour! The last stop was their vision map of sustainability posted on the wall in the office. It’s a literal map of the school that highlights where they will focus their eco- efforts. Then outside the group stopped in the middle of the school yard and all looked up, as did I. They were very proud of their efforts to finally get a solar array atop the school that, I am told, slashed their energy costs big time.

Everyone then led into the small greenhouse area where seeds for cauliflower and silverbeet will soon be planted, they sold all their other veggies and plants. The green team are also in charge of looking after the rain capture barrel that was installed in August of last year. The last stop was the compost/worm farm filled with worms eating their full of human scraps. Underneath the bin is a large barrel that catches the worm wee. I didn’t think to crouch down and look until one girl excitedly pointed at the barrel and said, “It’s full!” It will be used for plants in the greenhouse and some will be sold. 

The tour ended, but their excitement

for sustainability is contagious. - A big thanks to Rob the Caretaker for installing everything I saw on my tour!