REFLECTION ON SERVICE LEARNING

My service-learning program on Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle aimed to create awareness and promote environmentally friendly habits within the school community. The program was designed to educate learners about the importance of sustainable living and to actively involve them in activities that contribute to reducing waste. The initiative began with classroom lessons and discussions about the environmental impact of waste, particularly plastic, and the benefits of recycling and reusing materials. Learners participated in interactive sessions where they brainstormed ways to reduce waste, such as bringing reusable water bottles and lunch containers to school instead of single-use plastics. We also set up collection bins around the school for paper, plastic, and cans, and organized students into teams responsible for monitoring and sorting recyclables. In addition to recycling, the program encouraged creative reusing by hosting an art project where learners used recycled materials to create new items like plant pots, pencil holders, and decorations. This hands-on activity demonstrated that everyday items could be repurposed rather than discarded, fostering a sense of responsibility and creativity among the students. Throughout the program, I emphasized collaboration by involving the broader school community, including teachers, staff, and parents, who were invited to contribute by donating recyclable items and participating in recycling workshops. We also organized a school-wide cleanup day where students, teachers, and parents worked together to pick up litter and sort waste. This event not only promoted teamwork but also helped students see the immediate impact of their actions on the school environment. As the program progressed, I noticed increased enthusiasm from learners, who took pride in their roles and actively encouraged their peers to adopt sustainable practices. The program’s success was evident in the reduction of waste generated by the school and the visible commitment of students to maintaining cleaner spaces. Reflecting on this service-learning experience, I learned the importance of engaging students through hands-on, collaborative activities to create lasting change. While the program was effective, future improvements could include partnering with local recycling facilities for educational tours and implementing a long-term plan for sustainable waste management practices in the school. Overall, the program was a valuable opportunity to empower students, promote environmental stewardship, and create a lasting impact within the school community.