The Trocano Araretama REDD Project continues to champion environmental education through creative, community-based initiatives — this time with a playful twist.
On May 20, 2025, students at the Alcides Brandão de Sá Municipal School took part in a vibrant recycled toy contest, hosted by the Trocano Araretama Project team. The goal was transforming everyday waste into imaginative, eco-friendly creations that highlighted both their ingenuity and their commitment to sustainability.
This is an event the whole team looks forward to. Now in its third edition, this much-loved initiative once again showcased the imagination, teamwork and environmental awareness of Borba’s students.
Combining creativity and climate action in Trocano Project REDD
Despite the heavy rain that afternoon, spirits remained high as 77 students from grades 6 to 9 gathered for the event. Guided by the Trocano Araretama Project team and supported by Borba’s Municipal Department of Education (SEMED) and the Municipal Hall, students presented hand-built toys made entirely from reused materials — turning plastic bottles, cardboard, marbles and mesh into creative works of environmental messaging.
Sustainable Toys with Purpose
Each entry was judged on creativity, functionality, and finish. The contest featured three standout designs:
- A ping-pong table built by the 6th grade class, using cardboard, gouache paint, and a handmade ball.
- A foosball table crafted by 7th graders, featuring intricate details and players made from palmite twigs.
- A snooker table from the 8th grade team, complete with marbles and a pencil cue.
All three toys stood out for their ingenuity and thoughtful construction, but it was the 6th graders who took first place with their ping-pong table – earning widespread praise from the judging panel. The 7th and 8th grade teams earned second and third place respectively.
Building More Than Toys; Inspiring Environmental Integrity for the Future
The panel of jurors included Mr. Cleudir Gelasio (Project Coordinator), Mr. Francisco das Chagas Filho (Assistant Secretary of Education), and school psychologist Mrs. Daiane — all of whom applauded the quality and creativity of the students’ work.
The contest was more than a friendly competition — it was a powerful lesson in sustainability. By transforming discarded materials into something joyful and functional, students explored what it means to reduce waste and protect the environment for future generations.
As the Project Manager Jorge Felipe said in his closing remarks,
It’s not just about the prizes. It’s about understanding the value of reuse, and seeing the power of creativity to inspire change.
At the end of the event, every student was treated to ice cream. This was a small but symbolic way of recognising their enthusiasm and participation.
Trocano Araretama Supporting Climate Education in Borba
This initiative forms part of the Trocano Project REDD+’s ongoing commitment to climate learning and community engagement in Borba. Previous actions include:
- Trocano Project REDD+: Climate Learning in Divino Espírito Santo
- Trocano Project REDD+: Environmental Education in Vila Izabel
- Borba’s First Volunteer Fire Brigade
- Stingless Bee Breeding Programme for Forest Protection
- Health and Wellbeing for Women in São José do Miriti
A Shared Commitment Built on Collaboration
The Trocano Project team would like to thank SEMED/Borba, Mayor Raimundo Santana, and the School Manager Mrs. Maria Valdlúcia Soares for their continued support. Special recognition goes to the students of Alcides Brandão de Sá School, whose commitment and creativity made the day a true success.
As one of the most joyful initiatives of the year, the recyclable toy contest continues to reflect the heart of the Trocano Project REDD+. It’s community-driven climate action that is practical, playful, and deeply inspiring.
This educational event is part of the long-term commitment of Go Balance, the project developer of the Trocano REDD+ Project. Read the Go Balance Blog for insights into how the Trocano Araretama Project supports climate and social integrity in the Amazon.
