Forests play an immense role in our daily lives, influencing everything from the air we breathe to the desks we work at. They are vital in addressing critical issues such as climate change, soil erosion, and water and air pollution. Moreover, forests serve as the habitat for 70% of the planet’s land-dwelling animal and plant species. Wood-based products are ubiquitous in our lives, found in food, paper, furniture, medicines, detergents, and numerous other items. Yet, excessive deforestation, driven by our ever-growing needs, results in the destruction of these ecosystems, causing a severe loss of biodiversity and dire consequences for humanity.
Turya-Remetivskyi Secondary School students carried out research on the vast array of tree and shrub species in the forest near their school in order to increase their awareness of forest ecosystem preservation. The young scholars acquired the skills to identify different plant life forms, distinguishing trees from bushes, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. They also learned about the pivotal roles plants play for animals, serving as food sources, shelter, and protection, among other functions. During their research, students observed the distinct cones and seeds of conifers, identifying the species that consume them and those that inhabit the branches and hollows. They enthusiastically gathered nuts and acorns to provide sustenance for the birds.
The students underlined that recycling 1 ton of waste paper can save 17 trees from being cut down in their attempts to spread understanding about the importance of trees for both humans and the environment. They underlined the significance of sorting recyclables at home in order to avoid unwanted deforestation. The educational materials and interactive game “Learning about flora and fauna by playing,” given by IERS and IRCEF, enhanced the trip by changing it into an enthralling competition to identify plants based on photographs or descriptions. The challenge was to be the first to identify a plant based on a photo or description. In particular, students were particularly interested in medicinal plants, providing fascinating facts about viburnum, rose hips, nettles, linden, and other plants. They enthusiastically shared recipes and personal experiences of using these plants at home and beyond, contributing to a deeper appreciation of nature’s gifts.
The event was held within the framework of cooperation between the Interreligious and Civil Environmental Forum of Eastern Europe (IRCEF) headed by Olexander Bokotey) and the German Nature Conservation Union (NABU Bundesverband, NABU International), project coordinators Ivan Tymofeiev (NABU), and Nataliya Kulya (IRCEF).
Informational Service of IRCEF
