New Acropolis main centre in Mumbai hosted an event showcasing community involvement and environmental responsibility on 6 April 2024. A Mangrove Sensitization Session and Cleanup Drive, drew participation of 40 enthusiastic students from a nearby high school. Set against the backdrop of mangroves at Colaba Pumping Station, this event was part of the month-long International Mother Earth Day celebrations, underscoring the imperative to respect and safeguard our planet’s natural resources.
The day commenced with an informative sensitisation session, where students delved into the significance of mangroves in coastal biodiversity and the looming threats of pollution and deforestation. Through interactive dialogue and educational exercises, participants gleaned profound insights into the interconnectedness of all life forms and the pivotal role each individual plays in environmental preservation.
The students eagerly launched into the cleanup initiative along the mangrove coastline. Equipped with gloves and bags, they tirelessly worked to rid the area of litter and debris, viewing their efforts as a tribute to Mother Earth. Despite the rugged terrain, their enthusiasm remained steadfast as they amassed an impressive haul of 1000 kg of garbage, including 104 kg of plastic waste neatly segregated into separate bags. New Acropolis received support from Project Mumbai, which arranged for the collection and recycling of the plastic waste.
“The act of cleaning was not just about tidying up the environment: it was a symbolic gesture of respect and gratitude towards Mother Earth, ” remarked a Volunteer at New Acropolis. “By participating in this clean-up drive, the children demonstrated their commitment to nurturing and preserving our planet.”
The success of the event was not only measured by the amount of garbage collected but also by the impact it had on the children’s awareness and sense of responsibility towards the environment. By actively involving them in hands-on activities, New Acropolis hopes at instilling a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and empower them to become agents of positive change in their communities.
The Mangrove Sensitisation Session and Clean-up Drive received positive feedback from both participants and observers, with many expressing their eagerness to participate in future initiatives. Through events like these, New Acropolis continues to foster a culture of volunteerism and promote environmental awareness, inspiring individuals of all ages to take action for a sustainable future.
As the sun set on a successful day of learning and action, the children left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to nature, ready to carry the torch of environmental conservation forward.
