Stars and STEM Stories
GLOBE Uruguay: Students Share GLOBE Trees Research at LAC Regional Meeting
In October 2024, young environmental ambassadors from GLOBE Uruguay participated in the GLOBE Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) Regional Meeting in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. They represented Rural School N°88 and their country with pride and dedication that moved everyone present. Three students—Bruno, Juana, and Micaela—embarked on an adventure that was much more than just a trip. In addition to discovering the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Santo Domingo, these students had the opportunity to present a project they had worked on diligently for months alongside their 6th-year classmates. The project explored the role of trees in carbon sequestration and how they contribute to reducing the school’s carbon footprint. This project was submitted to GLOBE's International Virtual Science Symposium (IVSS) and became one of the few selected to receive the stipend granted by GLOBE's LAC Regional Office, which covered the travel expenses for one educator and one student to attend the Regional Meeting.
Students’ research comprised exploring their own school grounds, collecting data, and gaining a practical understanding of the impact trees have on environmental protection. Every measurement and observation became a learning experience, and this trip to the Dominican Republic was the culmination of all their hard work. Micaela shared her excitement: “It was amazing to share our work with people from other countries and feel that we can help take care of the planet.” Her words reflect the enthusiasm of a generation committed to and aware of its role in environmental conservation.
Shown above, left to right: Andrea Ventoso, Uruguay country
coordinator and mentor trainer; Juana, Micaela, and Bruno, who
represented Uruguay at the LAC Regional Meeting; Darío Greni, GLOBE
educator, director of Colegio de Las Violetas (located in Canelones).
As recognition of their outstanding participation in this event and the impact of their project, the students and the school received an ISO 14064-1 certificate from LSQA. LSQA is an international certification organization that validates the quality and relevance of the initiatives presented. This certificate not only acknowledges the scientific and educational effort behind the project but also reinforces the school community’s commitment to sustainability and action-based learning. Juana expressed, “Receiving this certificate motivates us to keep working on projects that make a difference.” Rural School N°88 is the first school in Uruguay to receive this certification.
Their teacher,
Professor Darío Greni, experienced this journey with them. “It filled
me with pride and satisfaction. Watching them present their work on an
international stage is a testament to the power of education and how
even at a young age, students can contribute to changing their
surroundings.” Bruno admitted, “I never thought a project at my school
could take me so far. I’m really happy to have showcased our effort.”
Hearing their words and witnessing their growth reaffirms the
importance of offering them these opportunities, which not only enrich
their knowledge but also show them the power of their voices and
actions in the world.
The experience of these young students at the GLOBE LAC Regional Meeting highlights GLOBE’s mission to connect students and educators from different nations through science and collaborative learning. Juana, with her characteristic enthusiasm, remarked, “I believe our project shows that each of us, no matter our age, can do something meaningful for the environment.” This statement illustrates how their research and commitment serve as an inspiration for other students and educators. The efforts of Bruno, Juana, and Micaela not only impacted them and their community but also lit the path toward a more conscious and responsible future, reminding us all that change begins with small actions driven by the desire to learn and contribute.
Learn more about GLOBE Uruguay through these articles and videos:
- Canelones Rural School Was Recognized by NASA's Educational and Scientific Program (article)
- Carbon Sequestration Study Conducted by Canelones Schoolchildren Received Certification Under ISO 14064-1 (article)
- International Award for Rural School Students (video)
- Interview - International Award for Science Knowledge Project/Rural School N°88 (video)
- International Recognition to the Rural School N°88 of Canelones (video)
Images courtesy Latin America and Caribbean RCO