We recognise that we are dependent on our planet for all our natural resources and that responsibility for this starts at home. The landscaping at Elkanah House is water-wise and reflects our beautiful unique indigenous flora, while ourherb and vegetable gardens teach the children a love for and use of plants. Our indigenous, wild gardens promote education regarding the sustainability of the natural environment and they attract abundant birdlife such as wild ducks,hadidas, and seagulls while the Kiewiets have found a new haven for breeding at the high school.
We are currently busy with a formal implementation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The objective of an EMP is to mitigate the environmental impact through measures such as site management to reduce pollution and soil erosion, the recycling of construction waste (from other sites), waste production, health and safety, empowerment and "green" procurement. All new development incorporates measures to promote water and energy efficiency and we avoid the unnecessary use of hazardous materials and take all reasonable steps to prevent damage to either public or ecosystem health where such materials are used.
Pupils are involved in preparing displays on alien invasive plants and animals to exhibit in the centres around Blouberg. They man the stand, explaining alien vegetation to passing shoppers encouraging them to get rid of the alien species.
A sustainable development project involving the cultivation of Vetiver, an architectural and industrial grass found in beds at the school is run by pupils who monitor the quality of the beds, the speed of growth of the plants and how they fare in the Cape Town climate. The project also includes the design of an innovative and technologically green-conscious urinal for use in underprivileged communities.
At Elkanah House we seize many moments and turn them into celebrations and learning opportunities through various events such as:
- Recycling
- World Water Day
- World Environment Day
- Green Belt and Beach Cleanups
- Waste-free Lunch Week
- National Electricity Safety Week
- Spring Day
- Arbor Day
