The third edition of festAmbjent, held between 27-31 January at the Junior College, provided JC students and Erasmus+ students participating in the ‘Fashion Revolution’ project, with a unique opportunity to engage with environmental themes through ecopoetry in various languages, seminars and hands-on activities.
One of the key attractions was the Argotti Botanic Gardens and Resources Centre stand, where students could explore its different aspects, and had the opportunity to participate in a competition which was won by Krista Cassar and Rebecca Ballisai. Additionally, the students had the chance to interact with students of the Earth Systems Association (ESA) and lecturers and members of staff of the Institute of Earth Systems, where a live monitoring display of noise levels in the Foyer showed real-time data. The event also offered students the opportunity to meet local environmental activists and NGO representatives, together with their furry and feathered friends.
An exhibition on the theme Confronting the Injustices of the Fashion Industry was set up in the Foyer, focusing on the effects of this industry on humans, animals and the planet. Fis-salott, students could relax and watch eco-themed videos.
The event saw the active participation of students from the Environmental Committee, the Book Chat Club and the Junior Achievement Malta Company Programme who contributed to the success of festAmbjent.
A special plant sale, aimed at promoting local indigenous plants raised €104 on behalf of the Argotti Botanic Gardens and Resource Centre, without any profit. The latter donated ten plants to the Environmental Committee which were presented to the seminar speakers. Furthermore, a bake sale in aid of JC cats successfully raised €335, highlighting the commitment of students and members of staff to both environmental and animal welfare causes.
To conclude the week’s festAmbjent activities, JC students and children from il-Perla and Ilwien Childcare Centres took part in a tree-planting event on Friday 31 January, fostering a spirit of environmental stewardship from an early age. This activity also coincided with Arbor Day which is celebrated during the month of January.
The JC Environmental Committee extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this event a success. A special appreciation goes to Professor Valerie Sollars, Pro-rector for Strategic Planning and Sustainability at the University of Malta, for honouring the occasion with her presence during the opening event.