Sustain, not just Showcase

The innovations designed by SJCNHS teachers and students look promising, but their impact is yet to be felt by the entire school and community.

This school year, the Science Department presented to the division their innovations that aim to promote sustainability, like the GREMM briquette, bike generators, and solar-powered printers. The said projects are based on the research they have conducted within the academic year.

However, many innovations and projects like these do not push through for a long time. For instance, the vermicomposting facility in the Science Park could have been sustained, same with the old hydroponics facility and the rainwater collectors. These things could have potentially been our school’s best practices, especially when done all year round, and could help other schools develop revolutionary and eco-friendly projects like these as well.

The school should not only put these potential projects on a one-time display, but provide extensive support to these projects. Here are the reasons:

SJCNHS has a Science-Focused Program. Our school has been implementing the Science, Technology, and Engineering Program for a very long time now. Its students have so much potential they should not only develop by the book. We are looking forward to see them create something new, and for them to do it regularly. These learners will become doctors, chemists, biologists, and other Science-related professionals in ten years or more, so as early as now, they have to feel that what they are creating is not only a one-time project, but something that the school and the community can benefit from in the long run.

Investing in sustainable projects promotes environmental awareness. Part of the Department of Education’s core values is being makakalikasan (environmental stewardship). Promoting projects for sustainable living will teach learners, as well as the community, to take care of and preserve the environment.

It helps community members, particularly the lessprivileged. Not everyonein thecity is blessed with a stableincome, or a sufficient life. Promoting sustainable projects can level the playing field among people of different economic backgrounds. It can help the less privileged afford education through using electronic devices that require less coal fuel to power up. At the same time, they would not need to buy expensive gas tanks

Going

Soilless...

growing media.

from page 9

Hydroponic nutrients do not expire, and if stored correctly, they can maintain their quality, leading to a higher yield. The advantages of using a hydroponics system include higher quality food due to fewer pest problems and a greater crop yield. This method can be utilized with or without electricity.

DRAWBACKS

If there is an advantage, there is also a disadvantage to using a hydroponic system. Building a hydroponics system has high initial costs, and it needs your time for constant monitoring.

HYDROPONICS IN CITY HIGH

Hydroponics was first practiced in SJCNHS in 2016, but it has undergone redevelopment and is now part of Oplan Environment’s innovation initiatives. Salamanca reported that last May, 2022, the school’s hydroponics system was reestablished with the help of the school