STAFF and students of St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) are the beneficiaries of a much-improved learning environment, following Petrojam's Labour Day Project in which close to 100 flowers and trees were planted at the 64 Spanish Town Road institution.

The tree-planting activity was in support of the national Labour Day theme, 'Plant a Tree for Life — Promoting Climate Change Mitigation, Food Security and Road Safety'.

General manager of Petrojam, Winston Watson said he was encouraged by the support the project received, particularly the many students who turned out to assist. "This support is an indication of the heightened awareness among the nation's youth of the importance of trees to environmental preservation and ultimately, to our survival," the Petrojam boss stated. "This tree-planting activity also helps to engender in these students the importance of environmental stewardship," he added.

Watson noted that certain activities, such as deforestation, have helped to destroy many of the natural ecosystems in Jamaica and pose significant consequences for the country. "Jamaica is said to be losing its forest cover at a rapid rate. However, tree-planting initiatives such as these contribute to our country's efforts at reforestation and climate change mitigation," he said.

"With the requisite care, in a couple of years the areas where these trees are planted will not just serve as beautiful green spaces for the staff and students, but will play a role in reducing our carbon footprint," Watson said.

STATHS principal, Dr Worrel Hibbert, said Petrojam's support of the environmental initiative was another example of good corporate social citizenship. "We are pleased to have partnered with Petrojam to bring beauty to our school and are certain that it will enhance the both the physical and learning environment of our institution," he stated.

"This partnership is timely as the trees add, not just to the aesthetics of the school but to its environmental value. We are definitely looking forward to future partnerships with Petrojam," he said.

STATS teacher and coordinator of the Labour Day project, Glenroy Williams echoed the sentiments of his principal, adding that the activity will have the full involvement of the students, who will be responsible for the general care of the trees and plants. "The students and grounds staff will be integral to protecting and nurturing these trees and flowers that have been planted to beautify our environs. Our agricultural students will also play a critical role in this initiative," Williams stated.