Nature and Environment Protection Activists (NEPA)
In Mirik, India, Elephant Thoughts has partnered with a local organization, Nature and Environment Protection Activists (NEPA) to implement a vermiculture project. Vermiculture is a method of composting using earthworms specialized in decomposing organic matter, turning food scraps and plant cuttings into rich compost and fertilizing liquid, without the use of chemicals.
Program Objectives
- Imparting vermiculture education
- Encouraging domestic wast management and developing composting skills
- Improving farming and sustainable agriculture
- Income generation for families
- Discouraging use of chemical fertilizers
- Motivating the community towards environmental protection
It is hoped that this education will influence the entire community, as students carry the message home to parents, providing both improved environmental management and income generation from the compost that the community produces.
This pilot project is being implemented in 4 schools:
1. Jogpal Memorial School
2. Thurbo High School
3. Nandalal Gaon Madhyamik Siksa Kendra
4. Okaity Madhyamik Siksa Kendra
In early November 55, class VII, VIII and IX students representing these four schools gathered to began a series of workshops that will expose them to theory and practice, culminating with the construction and maintenance of composting beds on school grounds in the spring.
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Interested in joining our project team?
Elephant Thoughts currently offers 2 types of internships – one for teachers and one for everyone else interested in supporting the School Sustainability Project. To read more about internship opportunities, please visit our internship page.
