In a bustling world where concrete jungles dominate the landscape, a beacon of green hope shines bright at Saint Louis University (SLU) through the unwavering dedication of its Youth Council of Ecolodians (YCE). As the heart of Baguio beats with environmental fervor, the SLU YCE, the university-wide student environmental organization, stands at the forefront, championing the cause of sustainability.
Enter Frank Christopher D. Pacio, the visionary force behind Project Greenify. As the Former President of SLU YCE and a stalwart environmental advocate, Pacio’s passion for a greener, healthier world has taken root in the form of an ambitious initiative: propagating easy-to-grow plants with myriad benefits for both human health and the environment.
The chosen plant for Project Greenify 1.0 is the resilient and ever-essential Snake Plant. Known for its air-purifying qualities and minimal maintenance requirements, this green gem was carefully selected to grace the halls and corners of SLU’s Main Campus.
This March 2024, the SLU YCE embarked on a mission to bring the vitality of nature into the heart of campus life. Thanks to the collaborative efforts with the SLU Campus Planning, Maintenance, and Security Department (CPMSD), the organization is already distributing 50 Snake Plants across various comfort rooms at the Main Campus. With determination as firm as the plants they nurture, the YCE pledges to extend their green reach further. By the end of March, all 50 plants will find their homes in every comfort room on campus, a testament to SLU’s commitment to sustainability.
The significance of Project Greenify extends far beyond the vibrant leaves of the Snake Plant. Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Snake Plants are natural air purifiers, promoting a healthier indoor environment for students and faculty alike. By greening the comfort rooms, the YCE encourages a more sustainable water usage and sanitation practices. Green spaces within urban areas enhance the quality of life and promote a sense of community well-being.
At the core of SLU’s mission lies the advocacy of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM) for the Integrity of Creation. Project Greenify stands as a beacon of this very ethos, echoing the call to nurture and protect our planet as a sacred gift.
In the words of Frank Christopher D. Pacio, “Our efforts with Project Greenify are not just about planting seeds; they’re about cultivating a mindset. We’re nurturing a generation of eco-warriors who understand the profound impact of their actions on the world around them.”
As the Snake Plants take root in SLU’s Main Campus, the YCE looks forward to a future filled with even more green endeavors. Plans are already in motion to introduce a variety of plant species, each chosen for its unique benefits to the environment and well-being.
With unwavering passion and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, the SLU Youth Council of Ecolodians invites every member of the SLU community to join them in this green revolution. Together, we can cultivate change, one plant at a time. (Aira A. Bangayan, SLU YCE Correspondent and Incoming President)
Join us as we nurture nature, for a greener, healthier tomorrow.
For more information about SLU Youth Council of Ecolodians and Project Greenify, visit our official social media pages: Facebook and Instagram: yce.slu (SLU Youth Council of Ecolodians)
