Salesians generate green spaces for environmental sustainability

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Planning and Development Office for the Chile Province has received a donation of 100 native trees to reforest Peñihue Park, located in Lo Cañas near Santiago. The Salesian park was inaugurated in November 2023. The donation is thanks to the “Donation of nursery plants from Guayacanes” appeal from Biocys, a consulting company specializing in environmental rehabilitation. The Salesian Chile Province was selected to receive the donation, along with other institutions.

Elizabeth Vivanco, representative of the Salesian project office, has received several species of plants that will reforest the Salesian park. “The commitment to care for creation is already an integral part of our institutional work, which should motivate the entire Salesian Family to take care of our common home, generating green spaces that contribute to this environmental sustainability. Generating these alliances will allow us to take care of the environment.”

Biocys also expressed the desire to continue collaborating with Salesians for ecosystem restoration through support, advice and dissemination to facilitate common well-being and natural spaces.

Salesian organizations around the globe are focused on environmentally friendly activities and education. Part of this was driven by Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility. Previously, Salesians launched the Don Bosco Green Alliance, an international collective of youth from Salesian institutions and organizations. Membership is open to all Salesian institutions and organizations worldwide.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social development programs for poor youth in Chile. Once finished with primary and secondary school, students can advance for higher education. Salesian technical schools cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and ability to gain livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

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Sources:

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ANS – Chile – The Planning and Development Office in the Salesian Province receives one hundred trees for reforestation of Peñihue Park

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile