Bio-diversity

The project is part of the Green Wave Initiative which took place over a period of 4 months. The IESOM organization worked with 3 schools in their surrounding communities of Santa Cruz and Gasparillo in Northern Trinidad and partnered with the Fondes Amandes Community Reforestation Project (FACRP) which also implemented Green Wave activities. The Green Wave tree planting exercise planted local tree species such as silk cotton, cocoa trees and fruit trees, and a banyan tree. The IESOM worked with the teachers and students of local primary and secondary schools, community members and FACRP to incorporate biodiversity awareness and the harmonious coexistance of man and nature. Meetings were held with the local school board and the teachers to bring about awareness of the Green Wave Day and the importance of educating young people about local and global biodiversity. Ideal spots were chosen within the school grounds to plant cocoa and other fruit trees which will keep the land productive and provide fruits for the students to eat. The students were taught how to care for the trees, the importance of planting local, indigenous species and they gained knowledge about the particular trees (for example, the cocoa tree and its value to the local cocoa industry in Trinidad and Tobago). A small nursery was also developed on the grounds of the organization which will provide seedlings for future planting. The tree planting experience was uploaded onto the Green Wave website where local students also had the chance to learn about other young people`s tree planting experiences around the world.

Trinidad and tobago