Talking about environmental awareness is essential nowadays, but it is not enough just to learn about it. The real key is to put that knowledge into practice in our daily lives. Theory is important, of course, but action is what really makes the difference. So, beyond books and lectures, it is vital that we put what we know about caring for the environment into practice.
Let’s start with schools. It’s not just about teaching about climate change and pollution. It is essential that students get their hands dirty and live these concepts. Imagine a classroom where, in addition to studying in theory how to care for the planet, kids plant their own vegetable garden, participate in recycling projects and visit nature parks. In this way, they not only learn in class, but also see the real impact of their actions on the world. In addition, these hands-on experiences help the concepts stick in their minds much better. What we learn as children is never forgotten, and kids are often the best ambassadors for these kinds of ideas.
At work, practice also plays a key role. It is not enough to have a manual of good environmental practices; you have to live them. In the office, for example, you can take simple steps such as using less plastic, recycling and saving energy. And it’s not just up to the bosses. Everyone can do something, from carrying their own water bottle to making sure we turn off the lights when we leave a room. In addition, activities such as organising community clean-ups or planting trees can get everyone involved and make a commitment to the environment a reality in everyday life.
At home, environmental education should be part of our routine. It is not enough to know that we need to save water or energy; we need to do it. Little things like taking shorter showers, using LED bulbs and separating waste are practices that we can all incorporate. In addition, reducing the use of plastics and choosing local and seasonal produce is not only good for the planet, but often healthier for us too.
The community also has a lot to do. It’s not just about advertising campaigns, but about providing real opportunities for everyone to get involved. From creating community gardens to organising farmers’ markets or recycling workshops, these practical activities help people get actively involved and see the positive impact of their actions.
The key to really effective environmental awareness is to combine theory with practice. Knowing about climate change or how to recycle is only the first step. What really matters is putting that knowledge into action in our daily lives. Only then can we see results, stay motivated and feel connected to the environment. If we all start doing small things in our daily routine, we can make big changes. So, beyond learning, let’s put what we know into practice and do our part to take care of the planet.
Learn about Theresa Zabell’s project, from swimming to awareness-raising
Theresa Zabell, sailing champion in several national and world competitions, also stands out for her work in environmental protection. In 1999, she founded the ECOMAR Foundation, with the aim of promoting the care of the seas and oceans and educating young people about the importance of sustainability.
The ECOMAR Foundation focuses on teaching children about the environment through practical activities and sport. Theresa, who has been a fierce advocate for the sea throughout her career, uses her experience and passion to engage children in activities such as beach clean-ups, recycling and gardening. The foundation’s premise is that environmental education should go beyond theory and include active participation that allows children to understand and value the environment.
As Theresa tells Mejor Conectados, a Telefónica initiative, practice is crucial to learning. She points out that while we retain only 10-20% of what we hear, we absorb up to 90% of what we do. This philosophy guides ECOMAR’s programmes, which have reached almost two million children in Spain through activities such as the ECOMAR Grímpola Programme, the Logbooks and the Blue Workshops.
Theresa Zabell also promotes daily actions that we can all do to help the environment, such as reducing the use of plastics and reusing packaging. Her commitment to environmental education and sustainability is evident in every aspect of her work, making her legacy go beyond the pool and into future generations.
