By Jacob Mansfield, Y13
The window of action against climate change is rapidly closing, but there is still room for us to make a difference – one need look no further than LGB’s very own Eco-Committee. We’ve previously covered the founding of the Eco-Committee, but the group has changed to accept new members and approach new projects, so we thought it would be helpful to ask Eco-Committee head Hanna Louth (Y13) some questions on their activities and direction.
What projects have you recently accomplished?
We had a small group that made a promotional video for solar panel funding in all 3 campuses. It was presented at a board meeting and shown to potential donors. We also had a group record and take pictures of the plants on campus for our biodiversity theme.
What projects are you working on?
We have a project promoting the use of fake fur in winter coats – we’re developing several different ways of communicating with our school community to get the message out. We have also made new posters to revamp car-free Friday that will be put up soon.
How has covid affected your work?
In past years, the Eco-Committee has used bake sales to raise money, but we were unable to do any this year. Our main fundraising for different causes was completely unavailable. Instead we opted to use social media to fundraise through the sale of bracelets, clothes, and more. For example, friends_with_wolves is a project by Melissa. She makes and sells bracelets to raise money for the protection of wolves in the Alps. It is much more difficult to raise money this way, however. Other groups are still not able to sell due to covid restrictions such as our sustainable fashion group. Overall, it is harder to complete projects.
What do you think is the easiest way for people to start living more sustainably?
Simple things in your everyday habits. Composting, recycling, and reusing items are all easy but sustainable things anyone can do. You can also take shorter showers and conserve water. Eating less meat and a more plant-based diet is both healthier and more sustainable.
Why do you think ecological work is important?
As the up-and-coming generation, our habits are not yet set in stone. We have the opportunity to do better than previous generations in making everyday life more sustainable. Starting now is a good way to get the ball rolling; we live in a fragile ecosystem that is slipping and we need to save it.
Please reach out to Hanna Louth (hanna.louth@learning.ecolint.ch) or other members of the Eco-Committee if you wish to join and help any of the projects mentioned above. Even outside the Committee, anyone can help make a difference to environmental issues we all face.
