Revitalized Algae Microfarm Project: MNHS Cultivates Algae to Fight Climate Change
Muntinlupa National High School (MNHS), the oldest and largest school in Muntinlupa, is revolutionizing education and environmental protection through the Revitalized Algae Microfarm Project (RevAMP). Located at the New Bilibid Prison reservation in Barangay Poblacion, MNHS is pioneering this project in the Philippines. The goal is to use microalgae to combat pollution and improve the quality of education.
The primary objective of RevAMP is to prioritize environmental protection. MNHS recognized that poor air quality in classrooms hindered the learning environment and led to decreased performance among teachers and students. To address this, MNHS conceived RevAMP to cultivate chlorella vulgaris algae, known for its ability to absorb greenhouse gases and pollutants. These algae can absorb between 17,000 and 18,000 tons of carbon dioxide per acre annually, making them incredibly effective in improving air quality.
Jason Albaro, the overall project director of RevAMP and head teacher of MNHS’s science department, describes RevAMP as an experiential farm that allows students to engage in various science and technology activities. This hands-on approach not only enhances students’ creativity but also enables them to contribute to research and development.
RevAMP is now in its sixth year and has set its sights on improving air quality in Metro Manila, which is plagued by pollution problems. MNHS aims to replicate RevAMP in 28 schools in Muntinlupa this year and eventually expand it to other regions. However, the project faces challenges, including limited funding, changes in the MNHS administration every three years, and annual typhoons in the country.
To overcome these challenges, MNHS is partnering with other institutions that share similar goals. They have formed partnerships with the Department of Education, the Department of Science and Technology, and the University of the Philippines. These collaborations aim to improve the project’s setup and ensure its sustainability.
Despite setbacks, MNHS’s efforts to protect the environment have gained international recognition. In 2019, MNHS received the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and more recently, London-based T4 Education selected RevAMP as one of the finalists for its “World’s Best School” prizes for environmental action. MNHS plans to scale up RevAMP by collaborating with cities and municipalities for pilot-testing and eventually implementing the project nationwide.
The winner of the “World’s Best School” prize will be announced in November, and MNHS hopes to secure funding to further expand RevAMP’s reach. With its dedication to environmental protection and innovative approach to education, MNHS is leading the way in shaping the next generation of environmentally conscious Filipinos.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
