Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Going on the wild side to learn about nature
WITH their roots firmly planted in conservation, siblings Zoë and Jamie Prinsloo made the most of last month, which was Arbor Month.
The sisters, along with their family, recently spent seven days camping at the Eden Festival of Action on the Garden Route, hosted by Greenpop, an NPO on a mission to plant trees, green communities and empower environmental stewards.
They planted more than 1 000 trees, learnt about permaculture, mushrooms and living sustainably. They used composting toilets, ate vegan food for the week and took part in informative workshops.
“Honestly, we learnt too much to list: everything from how to plant a tree to biomimicry and permaculture, the proper way to compost, about the various kinds of mushrooms and how to cultivate them at home.
“Most importantly, for me, we learnt ways to help our Earth and how to work together to reach our goals.
“My favourite moment was when we all came together to plant the last tree of the festival.
“We cheered and chanted and then had a moment of peace and silence for the tree. It was such a beautiful experience to sit there and connect with nature on different level.
“This is such an amazing festival – truly one of action,” she said.
Jamie, 19, said: “I enjoyed tree planting the most, as well as being able to explore in the forest. I really liked the experience and the people were very nice,” she said.
Claudia Waller, Greenpop events manager, said: “The Eden Festival of Action is an environmental action gathering combining practical ecosystem restoration work, like tree planting, with a full line-up of workshops, talks and activities from sustainability experts.
“The evenings are filled with campfire sessions, storytelling and music.”