By Alfred Menezes  SDB  for BIS Mumbai

To celebrate World Environment Day on June 5, a group of 6 youth and 2 staff members from Shelter Don Bosco had the opportunity to attend a Nature Walk And Workshop organized by Nehru Science Centre in Worli, Mumbai. The event was organized on the theme 'Beat Plastic Pollution' and raised issues like plastic pollution, sustainability and increasing biodiversity. The program was held in the beautiful and forest-like premises of Nehru Science Centre. It began in the morning and was divided into 3 workshop sessions. The youth from Shelter Don Bosco participated in all sessions enthusiastically. 

The first session - 'Nature Walk and Bird Walking with Nature Bingo' was held from 7:45 to 9:00 am. The facilitators guided the group through the expansive campus which was filled with a variety of trees and birds, each of which was explained with meticulous detail to the group. The Nature Bingo game was played along the way and was a fun and interactive experience which the group enjoyed. 

The second session - 'DIY Home Gardening' was held from 9:00 to 10:00 am was another interesting activity that the facilitators conducted. The group was taught how to make homemade pots using plastic bottles. Creative techniques were taught to the group using natural and available materials. This hands-on activity was both educational and enjoyable, sparking in the group and interest in gardening and nature.

 The final session - 'Butterfly Garden Inauguration and Tree Plantation' was held from 10 to 12 noon. The group learnt about the life cycle of butterflies, their importance in the ecosystems and the different varieties that are present in the garden. Following this, the group got an opportunity to plant trees in the garden, which was a beautiful experience to feel more connected to nature and have a sense of responsibility. 

Following this, a 'Brunch with Butterflies' was organized, in which the group was given some light snacks and given time to share and interact with each other. This event was very beautiful and enriching as it provided the group a deeper appreciation for nature. It was a memorable and meaningful experience for the group from Shelter and inspired then to take steps to make our own spaces greener.