At Healthy Earth, we believe that grassroots education is crucial in the fight against environmental issues, and our recent visit to Huynh Thuc Khang High School in Nghệ An province, Vietnam, exemplifies this commitment. We had an exhilarating day engaging with a vibrant group of students who are keen to make a difference in their community and beyond.
Our journey began when Ms. Pham ‘Ha,’ their dedicated summer school teacher, invited us to discuss pressing environmental concerns facing Vietnam. The students, aged between 13 and 17, welcomed us with enthusiasm and curiosity, eager to learn more about the challenges Vietnam—and the world—faces.
One of the main topics of discussion was plastic pollution, a subject that resonated deeply with the students as they see so much of it every day. We delved into the severe impact of plastic waste, particularly microplastics, which are now pervasive in our oceans and can have harmful effects on both marine life and human health. It was eye-opening for many of the students to discover that Asia is responsible for around 86% [1] of the plastic that ends up in the oceans through its rivers. This staggering statistic underscored the gravity of the situation and motivated the students to think critically about possible solutions.
The enthusiasm and engagement from the students were palpable. They asked insightful questions and expressed a genuine desire to be part of the solution. Their interest was not just theoretical; they were eager to take tangible actions to address plastic pollution. This is where the real impact of our visit became apparent. By inspiring young minds and providing them with knowledge about environmental issues, we are laying the groundwork for future leaders who can drive change in their communities.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibility of collaborating with these students on cleanup events and other initiatives aimed at tackling plastic waste in their area. Such partnerships are essential for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to tackle these challenges head-on.
This visit highlights the importance of grassroots education in our mission at Healthy Earth. By reaching out to young people and involving them in the conversation about environmental issues, we are not only raising awareness but also empowering them to take action. Educating the youth is a powerful tool for creating lasting change, as their passion and commitment can ripple out to effect broader societal transformation [1].
In conclusion, our day with the students from Huynh Thuc Khang High School was both inspiring and promising. We left with a renewed sense of hope and a commitment to furthering our efforts in environmental education. Together with these young environmental champions, we look forward to making a meaningful impact and fostering a healthier planet for future generations.
Stay tuned for more updates on our collaborative projects with students and other grassroots initiatives as we continue our mission to protect and preserve our Earth.
[1] Leal Filho W, Dedeoglu C, Dinis MAP, Salvia AL, Barbir J, Voronova V, Abubakar IR, Iital A, Pachel K, Huthoff F, et al. Riverine Plastic Pollution in Asia: Results from a Bibliometric Assessment. Land. 2022; 11(7):1117. https://doi.org/10.3390/land11071117
[2] Ballantyne, R., Fien, J., & Packer, J. (2001). Program Effectiveness in Facilitating Intergenerational Influence in Environmental Education: Lessons From the Field. The Journal of Environmental Education, 32(4), 8–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/00958960109598657