Nerul: A group of children turned environmental conservation into a practical learning experience by participating in a mangrove clean-up drive at Sarsole Jetty in Karave Gaon, Nerul, on Sunday.

The educational workshop, organised by Local Gyan, Vashi, in collaboration with volunteers from the Environment Life Foundation (ELF), combined classroom concepts with real-world action. The children helped remove large quantities of non-biodegradable waste from the mangrove ecosystem while learning about the impact of pollution on marine habitats.

Local Gyan’s initiative focuses on using the “city as a classroom” to help children develop curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills through practical experiences.

Sonam Ambe, co-founder of Local Gyan and an IIT Bombay Institute Silver Medalist, said, “When children investigate real places and real problems, they learn to observe closely, ask better questions, connect cause and effect, and think about solutions. These are skills that help them become more aware, confident and responsible citizens.”

During the workshop, ELF founder Dharmesh Barai and Rahul Raskar explained the journey of waste from homes and surroundings to rivers, creeks and oceans. They also highlighted the role of mangroves in protecting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.

“Children do not simply need to be told that waste is bad. They need to understand where it goes, what it does, and how their individual choices are connected to larger systems,” Barai said.

Raskar stressed that polluted mangroves reflect the growing environmental challenges faced by ecosystems. The activity encouraged children to adopt responsible waste practices and understand the importance of protecting natural habitats.