In a bid to tackle unhealthy snacking and promote environmental sustainability, the Department of Agriculture has launched its Sustainable Snack Initiative at Ciceron Secondary School, backed by St Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC).
The programme encourages students to swap processed treats for fresh, local fruit by planting the very trees that will bear them.
Soursop, guava, breadnut, and “fat poke” now dot the school’s slopes, offering both nourishment and soil stability.
Agriculture teacher Trevor Ghirawoo hailed the initiative as a timely intervention. “We have a problem on our island with the kind of foods our students consume,” he said. “We want to promote sustainability and growth and good health among our students.”
The project also aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), according to Forestry Division Range Officer Rosemond Justin.
He cited SDGs 2, 3, 4 and 13, which address food security, health, education and climate action.
LUCELEC’s involvement reflects its broader commitment to environmental stewardship and youth empowerment. “Tree planting exercises are especially important to LUCELEC because they helps us reduce carbon emissions,” said Bernardia Regis, corporate communications assistant.
He hopes the students will choose local fruits over imported goods and unhealthy snacks.
Thirty LUCELEC volunteers joined Form Four Agriculture students in the planting effort, turning the schoolyard into a living classroom.
Students Shyann Mayers and Darnell Richard were among those who got their hands dirty – and loved it. “It’s extremely important,” said Mayers. “It can help me create my own garden at home.”
With fruit trees now taking root, the initiative offers a sweet solution to dietary challenges.
