Written by Abigail Chifusa, Global Schools Project Officer.
In an effort to promote reforestation and conservation, Global Schools Program (GSP) advocate Gem Jos and her school community at Rajagiri Higher Secondary School organized an impactful activity: spreading seed balls in the Malayattoor Forest of Kerala in India. This initiative, carried out by GSP members, focuses on the importance of collective action in protecting and restoring our planet’s ecosystems, aligning directly with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land.
The activity aimed to address critical environmental challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change. According to the Global Forest Watch, In 2010, India had 31.3 Mha of natural forest, extending over 11% of its land area but in 2023 it had lost 134 kha of natural forest, equivalent to 81.9 Mt of CO₂ emissions.
By dispersing seed balls, a simple yet effective method for planting trees and vegetation, participants contributed to:
Encouraging new growth: Each seed ball contains the potential for life, nurturing native plants and trees that enrich the forest ecosystem.
Carbon sequestration: New trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping combat global warming.
Biodiversity conservation: Forest regeneration creates habitats for countless animal and insect species, preserving the delicate balance of life.
Ecosystem restoration: Healthy forests support natural water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and maintain ecological stability.
The students of Rajagiri Higher Secondary School gathered under the guidance of GSP advocate Gem Jos to craft seed balls using a simple method:
1. Ingredients: Clay, soil, compost, and seeds of native plants.
2. Preparation: The ingredients were mixed thoroughly and shaped into small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
3. Drying: The seed balls were left to dry in a shaded area to prepare them for dispersal.
4. Dispersal: Once ready, the seed balls were carried to the Malayattoor Forest and scattered across degraded areas, giving them a chance to germinate and grow.
This hands-on activity was not just about spreading seeds; it was about sowing hope for a sustainable future.
Linking to SDG 15: Life on Land
Sustainable Development Goal 15 emphasizes the need to protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The seed ball activity directly contributes to achieving several targets under this goal, including:
Restoring degraded forests by encouraging the growth of native species.
Enhancing biodiversity by creating habitats for wildlife.
Combating desertification through soil stabilization and reforestation.
By engaging young minds in practical conservation efforts, this initiative instills a sense of responsibility and ownership in the fight against environmental degradation.
The involvement of the Rajagiri Higher Secondary School community highlights the power of collaboration. Students, educators, and GSP members worked together to create meaningful impact, showcasing how local actions can contribute to global sustainability goals.
Spreading seed balls is a simple yet profound activity that bridges the gap between awareness and action. As GSP advocate Gem Jos and her school community have demonstrated, even small steps can lead to significant environmental benefits. Engaging in such initiatives contributes to planting seeds of change and creating a sustainable future for all.
Comments