CHILE: School reduces carbon footprint
Salesian Catemu Agricultural School constructs biodigester to transform organic waste
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Catemu Agricultural School, located in Catemu, Chile, began construction on a biodigester at its facilities. This project is part of an international collaboration with Don Bosco Bonn in Germany and marks an important step in the Salesian commitment to sustainability and environmental education.
A Salesian explained, “The biodigester is being installed in the piggery sector of the school and will serve as an innovative technology that will transform organic waste into bio-gas and organic fertilizers. This process will not only allow us to reduce our carbon footprint, but will also provide us with a source of sustainable energy and organic fertilizer for our agricultural activities.”
The project will also educate students who will be invited to watch and participate in the installation of the biodigester. This provides students with a valuable opportunity to learn firsthand how this technology works and to understand the positive impact it will have on the school and the environment.
The Salesian added, “We thank our international partners at Don Bosco Bonn for making this project possible and look forward to seeing how this biodigester improves our sustainability and enriches our students’ educational experiences. Catemu Agricultural School reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability and the formation of environmentally conscious citizens.”
According to the World Bank, Chile has a fairly low poverty rate of less than 10%. However, Chile struggles with high rates of income and education inequality. Salesian missionaries working in Chile focus their efforts on providing education and social services to poor and at-risk youth. At Salesian schools, universities and youth centers throughout the country, youth can access an education as well as the skills and resources necessary to break the cycle of poverty.
As a result of the vocational and technical education provided by Salesian programs, Chilean youth are more likely to find stable employment and improve their standard of living.
###
Sources:
Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance
Don Bosco Green Alliance – Construction of a Biodigester at the School: One more step towards a Sustainable Future
Salesian Missions – Chile
World Bank – Chile