Harvesting Sustainability: Zero Waste Habits and Kitchen Gardens in Schools
With Equifax (CSR)
Children learn best by doing. Whether it is segregating waste, growing vegetables, or caring for plants, everyday experiences help build habits that last a lifetime. Recognising the importance of introducing sustainability at an early age, Thanal Trust, with support from Equifax through its CSR initiative, launched Harvesting Sustainability: Zero Waste Habits and Kitchen Gardens in Schools.
The initiative aims to create learning spaces where environmental responsibility becomes part of everyday school life. Implemented initially across two government lower primary schools in Thiruvananthapuram, the project combines waste management, organic food cultivation, and environmental education to encourage students to adopt sustainable practices from a young age.
The programme includes the establishment of Material Collection Facilities (MCFs) for scientific waste segregation, kitchen gardens where students actively grow and care for vegetables, awareness sessions on waste management and sustainability, educational posters and learning materials, and regular engagement with teachers and students to strengthen long-term behavioural change.
Government L.P.S. Chenkottukonam
The first phase of the initiative was inaugurated on World Environment Day 2026 at Government L.P.S. Chenkottukonam.
The school received a Material Collection Facility (MCF) to help students understand waste segregation and responsible material management through hands-on practice. Alongside this, a Kitchen Garden was established with 50 vegetable saplings, creating a living classroom where children can learn about organic farming, food systems, and environmental stewardship by growing food themselves.
Supported by Equifax and implemented by Thanal Trust, the programme brought together students, teachers, parents, and the local community around a shared vision of a cleaner, greener school. More than planting saplings, the initiative planted habits of responsibility, environmental awareness, and stewardship that will continue to grow with every school year.
Government Model L.P.S. Thycaud
The second phase of the project will be implemented at Government Model L.P.S. Thycaud, where a similar model of waste management infrastructure, kitchen gardening, and environmental education will be established. Details and project updates will be added following the inauguration.
Expected Outcomes
* Foster responsible waste segregation and zero-waste habits among school children.
* Create hands-on learning spaces for organic farming and sustainable food systems.
* Strengthen environmental awareness through experiential learning.
* Encourage students to become ambassadors of sustainable practices within their families and communities.
* Develop replicable school models that integrate waste management, nutrition, and environmental education.
Our Approach to CSR Partnerships
Thanal works with CSR partners to co-create community-centred, ecologically responsible initiatives. Each project is designed for long-term relevance, local ownership, and sustainability beyond the funding period.