Sustaining Yesterday’s Roots, Nurturing Seedlings for Tomorrow: Concluding Project Gr.O.O.M. M.E.’s Season III: “A Call for Planters”
“the most meaningful contributions come from nurturing what has already been planted”
Not all environmental activities have to involve planting trees. Sometimes, the most meaningful contributions come from nurturing what has already been planted. This captures the very essence of Project Gr.O.O.M M.E. Season III: “A Call for Planters”, an initiative that does not only focus on planting, but also on weeding and clearing–simple yet essential acts of care that help existing trees thrive. These acts not only sustain biodiversity but also promote a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.
For the final chapter of Project Gr.O.O.M. M.E. Season III, the focus shifted from planting new trees to nurturing what has already taken root. This was held at Busol Watershed on October 25, 2025. It was a collective effort that brought together faculty, non-teaching staff of different offices, and students working hand in hand to sustain growth and preserve the life of the forest. The activity was also made possible thanks to Mr. Nelson Salvino and Ms. Jamilyn Suma-al of the Baguio Water District – Watershed Section who extended their invaluable support by guiding participants as they tend to the area with shared purpose and care.
This year’s activity under Project GrOOM ME highlights that environmental stewardship is an ongoing responsibility. It’s not just about starting something new–it’s about sustaining life that has already begun. Caring for what already exists, through weeding, clearing, and maintaining green spaces, demonstrates that volunteers contribute to the long-term health of the environment and ensuring that the trees we planted in the past years continue to flourish for generations. This approach supports sustainable land management practices and enhances biodiversity conservation initiatives in the surrounding area.
While tree planting often symbolizes growth and renewal, sustainability goes beyond the act of putting seedlings in the ground. Trees need continuous care and maintenance to ensure their healthy development. Through weeding and clearing, participants help reduce competition for nutrients, allow better water absorption, and provide space for young trees to grow strong and resilient.
As we continue to nurture our surroundings, this activity reminds us that environmental care is not a one-time effort, but a lifelong commitment. This supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting community learning initiatives and widening participation in environmental awareness activities. It contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through the maintenance of green spaces and engagement in community development projects that foster a cleaner and more livable environment. The activity also advances SDG 13 (Climate Action) by encouraging climate-resilient practices and raising public awareness on collective climate responsibility. In addition, it upholds SDG 15 (Life on Land) through the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable land management practices that ensure long-term health of natural ecosystems. Finally, it embodies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration with local government units in developing best practices for environmental care and sustainability.
As the final activity under Project GrOOM ME Season III, this initiative serves as a fitting conclusion to this year’s collective environmental action. Through these collective efforts, every weed pulled, every path cleared, and every tree tended to brings us closer to a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.
