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Earth Day in the Schools

On Earth Day and throughout the month of April we challenge Ontario students to think out of the box - or at very least, out of the blue box. Many students, their educators and families recognize the value of recycling paper and bottles. 'Garbageless' lunches are a priority for many schools. But how many are thinking about the need for recycling cars, electronic goods and a host of other products that end up in our already overcrowded landfill sites?

Together with the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW), the Workers Health & Safety Centre has been asking these kinds of questions since 2000. Trained CAW members talk to senior elementary students of grades five and six and senior secondary students of grades 11 and 12, focusing our presentations at a level appropriate for each age group. Central to our discussion are the many innovative ways workers, community advocates, environmentalists, enlightened entrepreneurs and governments are making a world of difference for this planet and all who inhabit it. We call these initiatives 'green jobs'. We promote them as healthier alternatives to many economic activities that are harming the health of workers, and because plant gates are no barriers to hazards, the health of community environments and citizens. This said we also talk to students about the contribution each of us as individuals can make. Healthier choices regarding household cleaning products, transportation, energy use and lawn care are just some of the ways we too can make a difference.

Through these presentations, we hope to inspire students to join us as we journey towards sustainable development. We understand the power young people possess to help change our world if given the opportunity. For our future and our children's future then, we are committed to delivering this unique Earth Day message.

 2011 EARTH DAY BOOKLET