Environmental Education for Solid Waste Management in Chiquimula Schools

Overview

This project aims to reduce pollution in the San José River, which drains into the Motagua River basin in Guatemala, through comprehensive environmental education and solid waste management initiatives in 25 schools. The program will focus on teaching students and teachers about waste reduction, collection, classification, recycling, reuse, and proper disposal of solid waste.

Objectives

• Strengthen the teaching-learning process in 25 schools by implementing appropriate methodologies for classifying and managing school waste
• Establish baseline data on waste production in each school and develop sustainable management systems
• Reduce plastic waste contamination in the San José River and Motagua River basin
• Create lasting environmental awareness and habits in students, teachers, and families

Impact

The project will directly benefit approximately 4,500 students and teachers across 25 schools in the San José River basin, including communities in:

• Chiquimula municipality (10 schools)
• San José la Arada municipality (7 schools)
• Ipala municipality (8 schools)

Implementation

The project will follow the “ECO RETO 21” methodology, a 21-day program designed to form lasting environmental habits:

1. Daily Challenges: Students will participate in daily activities focused on:

   • Proper waste classification
   • Recycling techniques
   • Composting
   • Reducing single-use plastics
   • Creating eco-bricks

2. Infrastructure: Each school will receive:

   • Dedicated plastic waste containers
   • Three-compartment waste sorting stations
   • Biodegradable bags
   • Educational materials

3. Technical Support:

   • Environmental education specialists
   • Support from CUNORI-USAC university students
   • Training for teachers and school directors

Sustainability

The project ensures long-term impact through:

• Agreements with school directors to continue the program with new students
• Partnerships with recycling collectors
• Integration of waste management practices into school curricula
• Extension of practices to students’ homes and families

Budget

Total project cost: $40,000 USD (Q308,000)

Major budget items:

• Technical staff and environmental educators
• Waste collection and sorting infrastructure
• Educational materials and supplies
• Contingency funds

Partners

• Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
• CUNORI, USAC (San Carlos University)
• Local schools and education authorities
• Motagua River Alliance
• International Rotary clubs