The Salesians of Don Bosco have always been and are close to young people who commit themselves with their lives to leaving a positive sign in the world. In 2016, the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, signed the inter-religious Declaration on climate change, addressed by religious and spiritual leaders to world leaders and handed over to the President of the UN General Assembly.
In the wake of that signed declaration, the Salesians in India have established the "Don Bosco Green Alliance", a true and proper active movement that through the creation of campaigns, programs and projects aims at promoting and activating attitudes, behaviors and lifestyles that are eco-compatible.
The mission of the "Don Bosco Green Alliance" is to create a safe and environmentally conscious mindset os regards the planet, while educating a new generation of citizens and leaders committed to environmental responsibility.
The initiatives undertaken by the "Don Bosco Green Alliance" are many: from environmental education to the increase of green areas via planting trees, from the reduction of the use of non-degradable materials to the promotion of organic agriculture and home gardens, from preservation and conservation of water to increasing the use of renewable energy sources.
Still in India, in the Tiruchy Province, "Eco Clubs" have been founded. They organize activities and events on the topic, in a joyful atmosphere of participation and inclusion. An Eco Club normally consists of 20-25 girls and boys, coordinated by an adult who has the function of educator, who meet once a month, are trained in environmental issues and plan ecological activities.
The environmental education carried out in Eco Clubs develops a real aptitude for eco-sustainable behavior and lifestyles in children and encourages them to always evaluate the long-term consequences of their actions.
Furthermore, one of the main activities of Eco Clubs is the planting of trees. In 2017 alone, 5350 trees were planted.
The care of the planet is entrusted to each of us: together we can change the world.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/special-reports/item/7581-rmg-the-young-creators-of-change-in-the-world-a-possible-future#sigProId02edda0040
