Efforts to preserve and introduce green spaces are increasing in schools, with Fleurhof Primary School among the latest beneficiaries of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo’s (JCPZ) greening initiatives.

One of these initiatives was when the school marked Arbour Day on September 8 by planting 50 Celtis africana trees, commonly known as white stinkwood, allowing learners to experience environmental conservation beyond the classroom.

The initiative formed part of sustainable environmental management activities usually observed during the first week of September and was aimed at highlighting the importance of trees in communities and the environment.

For Fleurhof Primary, the planting goes beyond adding greenery to the school grounds.

The trees provide learners with a practical lesson about the role of vegetation in supporting healthier environments and the responsibility communities have to protect natural resources.

Presentations by the JCPZ team and learners focused on the significance of Arbour Day and the contribution trees make to communities, including their importance in sustaining livelihoods and the environment.

JCPZ regional manager Mlaleli Ballot encouraged learners to take ownership of the newly planted trees and protect them as they grow.

He urged them not to break the branches, use the trees as swings or climb them, emphasising that caring for the trees would be just as important as planting them.

Fleurhof Primary principal Millicent Mabaso welcomed the initiative, saying the school was grateful to City Parks for bringing more greenery to their school.

“We are very grateful to City Parks for their generous gesture of adding some greenery to our school. We are very excited to see them grow,” said Mabaso.