Within the framework of the Erasmus+ LUGA project, the restoration and development of an organic vegetable garden in the school grounds “Be Green” was initiated, in an initiative that combines environmental education, global citizenship, and hands-on learning.
To accomplish this process, a team of students from the Environmental Club, which has been created, taking responsibility for the maintenance, monitoring, and promotion of the garden. The work is being guided by the teacher Fernanda Santos, who has closely monitored all phases of the project, from planning to implementation of activities.
The main objectives of this garden are to promote healthy lifestyles, raise awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental preservation, develop a sense of responsibility and cooperation, and provide active learning experiences, linking theory to practice. It also aims to reinforce values such as respect for nature, teamwork, and commitment to the community, framing these lessons within a perspective of global citizenship, where each student understands their role as an agent of change in an interconnected world.
Through this initiative, students become protagonists of their own learning process, contributing to a greener and more sustainable space, in alignment with the principles of the Erasmus+ program and the objectives of LUGA project.
The Environmental Club aims to promote environmental education and encourage sustainable practices at school, involving the entire educational community. From 5th to 9th grade, each class is represented by two students, who take on the role of environmental delegates; however, participation is open, and all interested students can join the club. Activities include recycling, reducing plastic use, creating a school vegetable garden or garden, cleaning teams in the playground, composting workshops and educational campaigns. It has a team of teachers responsible for guiding and monitoring the initiatives. It is therefore a space for active participation in building a more sustainable school.
The image created by student Beatriz Cruz 9ºDa in her Art class represents the Bee Green club mascot, symbolising sustainability, environmental awareness and European spirit.
It is a smiling bee, drawn in vibrant colours and expressive lines, conveying joy and dynamism. It wears a green hat decorated with flowers, reinforcing its connection to nature and the school's organic garden. In one hand, it holds a small globe, representing the global dimension of environmental education and the connection to the Erasmus LUGA project. On its chest, it carries a small camera, suggesting observation, learning and sharing experiences.
The purple wings and the contrast with the yellow and black of the body create an appealing visual effect, while the cheerful expression symbolises the students' enthusiasm for restoring and revitalising the organic garden.
Overall, the image conveys a clear message: caring for the planet with creativity, responsibility and a spirit of cooperation.
Reusable items
This area of land at School was once a very productive vegetable garden, but it has been neglected due to lack of maintenance. Recently, the students and teachers responsible for its reactivation have drawn up a plan for its recovery.
The Cleaning Day
March 4/ 2026
Metropolitan Area answered positively to the request for a tree to be planted in the school’s vegetable garden, which is currently being restored, by donating a native species: the hawthorn. Professor Etelvina also joined this initiative by donating a cherry tree, so that, in the future, the vegetable garden may not only grow green but also bear fruit.
These contributions help this space to flourish and strengthen the Bee Green Club, promoting sustainability and direct contact between pupils and nature. Monitoring the growth of these trees, taking care of them and taking part in other plantations will be a real educational asset, enabling pupils to learn from the rhythms of earth, appreciate biodiversity and cultivate more sustainable habits.