As part of the Fourth Sustainable Fair held at Colegio Concepción on World Environment Day, different members of the community shared their impressions about the importance of this initiative and its contribution to environmental awareness, sustainable entrepreneurship and community participation.
The fair, developed within the framework of “Sustainable School in Action: Eco-Fairs and Global Awareness through English,” a COEMCO winning teacher innovation project, created a meaningful space where students, staff members, local entrepreneurs, authorities and guests could reflect on sustainability from different perspectives.
One of the key aspects highlighted during the event was safety and organisation. Ms. Katherine Nanjari Massoglia, Head of the Risk Prevention Department of the Corporación Educacional Masónica de Concepción, explained that her role is to advise staff members and the educational community on proper safety conditions. She emphasised that, in events with a large number of participants, prevention is essential to avoid accidents and ensure that everyone can enjoy the activity in a safe environment.
Sustainable entrepreneurship was also an important part of the fair. Ms. Valentina Toro Muñoz participated with her project Arantu, Arte y Manualidades, an initiative focussed on handmade crafts, knitting and recycling. She explained that taking part in the fair was a rewarding opportunity to share her work with the school community. Her project also showed students how everyday materials, such as eggshells, can be transformed into creative resources, encouraging them to see recycling as a source of imagination, learning and environmental responsibility.
The fair also strengthened the connection between Colegio Concepción and the wider community. Mr. Juan Carlos Villalón, councillor of Chiguayante and former student and staff member of the school, highlighted his lifelong connection with the institution and valued the opportunity to return to his current public role. His presence reflected the strong bond between the school, its former members and the local community.
In addition, Mr. Alan Bastías Urrutia, Regional Councillor (CORE) and Chair of the Environment Commission, recognised the importance of the initiative and the work being developed by the school community. He described the fair as a positive and meaningful example of how students, teachers, authorities, entrepreneurs and artisans can come together to promote recycling, reuse and sustainable practices. He also emphasised the relevance of sustainability in addressing challenges such as climate change and pollution.
Through these testimonies, the Fourth Sustainable Fair became more than an exhibition of products and initiatives. It was also a space for dialogue, learning and public recognition, where different voices came together around a shared purpose: building a more conscious and responsible community.
As part of the COEMCO winning project “Sustainable School in Action,” this experience represents an important step in connecting school learning with real community engagement. By listening to different perspectives and interacting with sustainable initiatives, students are encouraged to recognise their role as active participants in the protection of the environment and the construction of a greener future.
Article and interview by the ICT Team
Edited and enhanced with AI support
