Keren's Journey: inspiring sustainability at school

"It's about encouraging our children to use their feet to come to school, have a waste-free lunch, and to really empower them to take social action out there in the world."

Keren has always been passionate about sustainability and the environment. Her dedication to nurturing a greener future is evident in her role as the leader of the Education for Sustainability programme at her school. Through her tireless efforts, Keren has fostered a culture of environmental stewardship among students, encouraging them to take meaningful actions that make a real difference.

Keren's approach to sustainability education is holistic and hands-on. She firmly believes in empowering children to become active participants in environmental conservation.

"It's about encouraging our children to use their feet to come to school, have a waste-free lunch, and to really empower them to take social action out there in the world," she explains.

"We want them to believe that they can make a difference."

Composting to combat climate change

One of the standout initiatives Keren has spearheaded is the school's comprehensive composting program.

The students are actively involved in composting organic waste, which not only reduces landfill contributions and emissions, but also enriches the school's veggie gardens and orchard.

This practical experience teaches students the value of reducing waste and creating a closed-loop system where resources are reused and recycled.

Tree planting champion

Keren also takes pride in the school's participation in the Trees for Survival programme. This program engages students in planting and nurturing native seedlings, which are then planted in local communities.

"We've probably planted around 20,000 native trees in that time," she says with a smile.

"It's exciting to see our youngest children, the five-year-olds, get involved because they can see the difference they've made when they leave our school years later." 

This hands-on learning extends beyond planting trees. Keren ensures students understand the broader impact of their actions.

"We're teaching our children about the environment while contributing to circular urban biodiversity," she explains.

"It's creating food and refuge for birdlife and insect life. It's a really easy small step you can take to help protect our planet and create a beautiful green space for future generations."

Keren emphasizes that these sustainability efforts are not just individual endeavours but community-driven projects.

"It's not something that you have to do alone. It's something that you can do together as a community," she says.

"It brings people together, and being out in green spaces is a really nice thing to do."

Connecting with kids

Working with children outdoors and in nature is particularly rewarding for Keren. She believes it instils a sense of purpose and optimism in the students.

"When we're working outside with children and they're out in nature, they feel they're making a difference, and I think that's really empowering for them."

"It gives them a positive outlook on our planet and climate; they truly believe the little things they're doing are making a difference."

The joy on children's faces when they are planting veggies in the garden or trees in the earth is a constant source of inspiration for Kerren.

"Seeing the joy on children's faces when they're working outside is really awesome; they love being outside, they love being in nature," she says.

Climate action

Keren's efforts are aligned with the broader goals of Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan. Her work contributes to growing the resilience of Aucklanders to climate-related events and issues.

She helps ensure the community understands how to prepare for future climate risks and impacts. By promoting actions such as planting trees, collecting rainwater, and joining local community groups, Kerren is building a foundation of resilience and sustainability.

Her dedication to sustainability is unwavering.

"What we're doing is planting the seeds for the next generation. It's really important because these small everyday actions are empowering for kids. It's lots of fun, and it helps them understand that learning doesn't just exist within the four walls of the classroom. We can be making a difference and just providing a quieter, greener space to be in."

Through her leadership, Keren is not only cultivating a greener school environment but also nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious individuals.

Her work underscores the importance of sustainability education and the profound impact it can have on both the environment and the community.

As she continues to inspire and educate, Keren remains a beacon of hope for a sustainable future and building resilient communities in challenging times, encouraging more Aucklanders to follow her lead and make a positive impact on the world around them.