In September, Tzu Chi Japan's humanistic classroom focused on "Green Living with Less Plastic," guiding students through scientific facts, environmental education, and interactive games to understand the critical importance of environmental protection in their daily lives. The course aimed to instill a deep appreciation for resources, culminating in the Jing Si Aphorism: "Usable materials are all treasures worth cherishing."
Understanding plastic's impact
The session began with teacher Lixia Xu (徐麗霞) sharing recent scientific findings that plastic microparticles have been detected in the air and even consumed by many animals. This revelation sparked a lively discussion among the students, bringing home the realization that plastic pollution is not merely an environmental burden but a direct threat to ecosystems and human health. The discussion emphasized that reducing plastic in daily life is no longer just an option but an urgent action everyone should take.
LEFT: Tzu Chi Japan's humanistic classroom begins its " Green Living with Less Plastic" course with a sign language performance of "A Clean Earth," using scientific facts, environmental education, and interactive games to help students’ eco-awareness. RIGHT: Teacher Lixia Xu shares the latest scientific research: plastic microparticles have been detected in the air and even in bodies of animal. This discovery sparked lively discussion among students. | Photos: Hsiu-Ying Hung
Transforming waste into resources
During the "Trash to Gold" segment, teacher Yun-Hsuan Huang (黃韻璇) demonstrated proper resource classification for items like plastics, PET bottles, glass bottles, aluminum cans, iron cans, and paper. Through vivid images and examples, students were amazed to learn that recycled PET bottles could be transformed into eco-friendly pens or even simple tables and chairs for disaster survivors. The class also highlighted the story of the 2010 Pakistan floods, explaining how Master Cheng Yen was inspired by the survivors' plight to promote the research and development of eco-friendly materials. This illustrates the profound humanistic care embedded in the act of recycling.
Engaging through play
The "Eco-Warrior" game proved to be a favorite among the students. Those who came forward enthusiastically sorted various items into the correct recycling bins, learning through hands-on experience. The impact extended beyond the classroom, with parents reporting that their children returned home and actively reminded adults to sort trash correctly, effectively bringing environmental awareness into their family routines.
LEFT: The "Eco-Warrior" game allows students to place different items into the correct recycling bins, learning while having fun. RIGHT: The class highlights Da.Ai Technology's series of recycled products, such as disaster relief blankets made from recycled PET bottles. | Photos: Hsiu-Ying Hung
Cultivating a mindset of care
The session concluded with everyone reciting the month's Jing Si Aphorism: "Usable materials are all treasures worth cherishing." This collective affirmation helped students connect the environmental knowledge they gained with a deeper humanistic wisdom. It reinforced the understanding that valuing resources is not just about conservation, but a fundamental way of life and a shared responsibility to protect our planet and all its inhabitants.
Written by Shu-Hui Chen (陳書慧)
