As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community development, Zijin
Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. (RGM) recently launched a series of waste management awareness
sessions for primary school students in Brokopondo. The initiative is being implemented through a
collaboration between the Community Relations Department (CRD) and the Environmental
Department and supports the Company’s commitment to environmental responsibility under ISO
14001 standards.
The program specifically targets Grade 5 and Grade 6 students from primary schools in the
surrounding communities. By focusing on children at an early age, RGM aims to help develop
long-term responsible behavior towards waste management and environmental protection.
During the sessions, students learn about the importance of proper waste management, including
what waste is, how it impacts the environment, and practical ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle
waste. The initiative also encourages students to become ambassadors for environmental
responsibility by sharing the knowledge they gain with their families, classmates, and community
members.
To make the lessons engaging and easy to understand, the Environmental Department developed
an interactive presentation and educational video that are shared with students during each
session. The educational materials are designed to help children understand how everyday actions
can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The Community Relations Department plays a key role in coordinating the initiative, including
preparing the project proposal, engaging school principals and community stakeholders, and
facilitating interaction with students throughout the sessions. Meanwhile, the Environmental
Department is responsible for developing the educational content and providing technical
knowledge on waste management practices.
As part of the program, students participate in a quiz and drawing competition. These activities
serve as an enjoyable way to assess how well students have understood the information presented
during the sessions. Quiz results provide a measurable indication of learning outcomes, while the
drawing competition allows students to creatively express the environmental lessons they have
learned. The best drawings will be recognized with prizes following the completion of the program.
Through this initiative, RGM hopes to inspire students to take an active role in keeping their
schools, homes, and communities clean. By educating young people about responsible waste
management, the Company aims to create a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the
classroom and contributes to improved environmental awareness throughout Brokopondo.
“Small actions make a big difference. When we reduce, reuse, and recycle, we help keep our
school, community, and planet clean for everyone.”
The initiative is supported by Rachel King (Community Relations Officer), Soesmita Sharman
(Environmental Technician), Angelo Fonkel (Environmental Officer), Lutricia Jabini (Environmental
Technician), and Rostin Wirosemito (Environmental Technician).
Through programs such as these, RGM continues to invest in education, environmental awareness,
and the sustainable development of its Communities of Interest, helping to build a cleaner and more
responsible future for generations to come
