The Learning Tree’s Kasi Cleanup Project
Our model preschool, The Learning Tree, is leading the charge in keeping the community clean and green through its powerful Kasi Cleanup Project.
It all started when Principal Julie decided to do something about the littered area of the Knysna Forest that borders the preschool. Collecting 200 bags of rubbish, they were able to clear the area, and received assistance from SANParks to ringbark the invasive alien species to rehabilitate the indigenous forest. Now, the children have a magical playground where they can run freely, swing from branches, and explore nature safely.
The project did not stop there. Creating a culture of good citizenship, the Grade R children take black bags with them and pick up litter on their bi-weekly walk to the local library. They also showed appreciation for the CPWP Workers who pick up litter by delivering treats to them on Mandela Day.
Now, Principal Julie has set her sights on a larger goal: cleaning up the Sanlam area at the entrance of Nekkies. This area is notorious for its litter problem, and Julie has taken it upon herself to support the CPWP workers there. She’s fundraised for essential supplies like gloves and garbage bags, delivering materials two to three times a week, and collecting sixteen bags of 400 glass bottles weekly for recycling.
Her efforts have inspired others. “Business owners in the area have started to get involved, as well as the taxi wash crew, who appreciate that we organised for their parking area to be tarred and a proper tap installed, leading to less water wasted” says Julie. In addition to providing supplies, Julie has begun paying, from donated funds, R20 per bag of collected bottles – incentivising local people to pick up waste. She then delivers the bottles to the recycling depot.
She collaborates closely with the Clean Knysna group and engages with municipal and other stakeholders to push for long-term, sustainable solutions, including improved waste infrastructure and community education. This project may still be in its infancy, but they have already made a large impact, winning the 2024 Ackerman’s Award for Best Initiative in the Region.
How You Can Support the Kasi Cleanup Project:
Donate towards essential equipment like gloves, garbage bags, gumboots and rakes. Every contribution helps!
Donate:
Nedbank Knysna
Acc Name: The Learning Tree
Acc No: 1151725269
Branch: 108914
Please use Kasi Clean Up as a reference.