LEAFLearning and Ecological Activities Foundation for Children
Promoting Community-based Environmental Learning Activities
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Learning and Ecological Activities Foundation for Children (LEAF) was established in 1998 through the initiative of the City of Nishinomiya, Japan, as an organisation based on partnership among citizens, businesses and the municipal government. Our aim is to contribute to the development of a sustainable society by initiating community-based environmental learning activities at schools and in local communities, in liaison with various civic groups, corporations and government agencies. We hope our activities will target a wide range of citizens with a focus on youths and children, to raise the global citizens who act responsibly towards the global environment.

Here are some of the examples of our community-based activities...

Eco-learning activity at a local co-op market makes children aware of the impact of their lifestyle on the environment. Eco-Panel Exhibition is a perfect venue for kids to enjoy and exchange their opinions on the local environment through hand-made display presentations. Eco-learning activity at a local park gives children and their parents a chance to enbrace the nature so close to your home. Teachers' training session conducted by local business members enhances teachers' knowledge on environemntal protection measures taken by local businesses.
Local beaches are havens for various creatures and migrating birds who feed on them. Children learn the importance of bio-diversity and its connection to their daily lives. "I found it there!" Kids enjoy "Nature treasure hunt" game with their parents at the schoolground. Parents act as activity leaders to support and share children's discovery. Local rivers are often forgotten to be recognized as a vital eco-habitat for fish, crabs, shrimps, and many other creatures. "Can you see this bug?" "I know! It is a baby of a dragonfly!" International exchange on a classroom-to- classroom level allows children to have a real sense of compassion and friendship.

EWC Eco-Panel Exhibition
The annual Eco-Panel Exhibition is another way to let your voices heard. We welcome entries of artwork, handicrafts, reports, compositions, photos, and many more describing your environmental activities in your community.

The 18th EWC Eco-Panel Exhibition was successfully held at the Nishinomiya Municipal Gallery with more than 500 works from local schools and about 360 works from 16 overseas countries. This year, we received works from Nepal, China, Laos, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Pakistan, Sweden, Belarus, Lithuania, Brazil, Chile, and Kenya. Many visitors, mostly school children and their family, visited the exhibition and enjoyed watching colorful paintings and crafts and took the time to read excellent activity reports and research papers. People learn about different ideas while they find common challenges we face.



SEND US YOUR WORKS for participation!
Click here for further information!


Action Report (pdf format, 1.5MB)
This report describes our achievements on promoting community-based environmental learning activities.
Chikyu Kids Environmental Network (www.chikyu-kids.net)
The Chikyu Kids website lets you exchange ideas and accomplishments with other like-minded young people from around the world.
Let's share our visions, and make our voices heard!

Learning and Ecological Activities Foundation for Children (LEAF)

LEAF office
1-8-1 Kofuen, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-0832 JAPAN
telephone and fax: +81-798-69-1185

URL: http://leaf.or.jp email: kodomo@leaf.or.jp