Brazilian government launches programme to promote sustainable action in education

On Wednesday 14 September, the Ministry of the Environment (MMA) launched the Escolas +Verdes ("Green Schools") programme, which will promote civic and environmental education activities in schools related to waste separation and treatment, recycling, reverse logistics, water reuse and efficiency, renewable energy sources. 

The initiative will be implemented in two phases with an investment of up to R$300 million in project financing.

Escolas +Verdes is held in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MEC). A decree regulating the programme and defining the criteria for projects was signed this Wednesday by Environment Minister Joaquim Leite and Education Minister Victor Godoy. In addition, the first public announcement was launched to select 200 schools to participate in the initiative.

In the first phase, $100 million will be allocated to install bioreactors in public schools to produce biogas from organic waste. Biodigester is equipment that produces liquid bio-fertiliser in addition to biogas. 

"This way, peels, seeds, fruit pulp and leftover vegetables no longer go in the rubbish and serve as fuel for cooking school meals, replacing the purchase of cylinders," the MMA statement explained. The equipment design can also be used for wastewater treatment in schools that do not yet have basic sanitation facilities. 

The acquisition and implementation of the bioreactors will be funded by the MMA. Funding will be provided from its own resources or through cooperation, agreements, adjustments and other instruments signed by the ministry with foreign governments and international bodies or public or private, national or international, commercial or non-commercial bodies and organisations.

"Sustainable initiatives such as the bioreactor create space for interdisciplinarity as they allow teachers in biology, mathematics, chemistry, physics and science to address issues in practice with their students," the ministry said. 

In the second phase of the programme, R$200 million is projected to be invested in other sustainable initiatives. Rede TV!, a partner of the TV BRICS network, writes about this. 

Public or private schools that implement sustainable development practices will also be able to apply for the Escola + Verde label. "The certificate is a recognition from the Ministry of Environment and a distinction in stimulating environmental education in the classroom and beyond," the MMA added.

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