Project Title: Mitigating Air Pollution at Pafiwa Mutasa High School
Stage 1: Problem Identification
The problem identified is air pollution at Pafiwa Mutasa High School, which affects the health and well-
being of students, teachers, and the surrounding community. The problem is happening within the
school premises and its immediate environment. To solve this problem, I plan to research and
implement effective solutions that promote environmental conservation and raise awareness about the
importance of clean air. The project will involve designing and implementing a suitable solution, utilizing
locally available materials, and promoting sustainability.
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
The following solutions have been used before to mitigate air pollution:
By Tatenda Mawonya
Contact 0771253521
1. *Terracing:* Implemented at Pafiwa Mutasa High School, terracing helps reduce soil erosion and
promotes green spaces, which can absorb pollutants and produce oxygen. This solution has been
successful in reducing dust particles in the air and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the school.
However, it requires regular maintenance and can be labor-intensive.
2. *Covering Bare Ground:* Implemented at Nyakatsapa, covering bare ground with grass or other
materials reduces dust particles in the air, contributing to cleaner air. This solution is easy to implement
and cost-effective but may require frequent replacement of covering materials.
3. *Awareness Campaigns:* Implemented at Tsonzo, awareness campaigns educate students and the
community about the importance of clean air and promote behaviors that reduce air pollution. This
solution has been successful in raising awareness and promoting behavioral change but may not lead to
immediate tangible results.
4. *Tree Planting:* Implemented at St. Columbus, tree planting helps absorb pollutants and produce
oxygen, contributing to cleaner air. This solution is effective in reducing pollutants and enhancing the
aesthetic appeal of the environment but requires regular maintenance and may take time to mature.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
Based on the solutions investigated, the following ideas were generated:
1. *Awareness Campaigns:* Organize awareness campaigns at Pafiwa Mutasa High School to educate
students and the community about the importance of clean air and promote behaviors that reduce air
pollution. This solution has the potential to raise awareness and promote behavioral change.
2. *Terracing and Green Spaces:* Implement terracing and green spaces at Pafiwa Mutasa High School
to reduce soil erosion and promote oxygen production. This solution can reduce dust particles in the air
and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the school.
3. *Dust Reduction Measures:* Implement dust reduction measures, such as covering bare ground or
using dust-suppressing materials, at Pafiwa Mutasa High School. This solution is easy to implement and
cost-effective.
4. *Combination of Solutions:* Implement a combination of awareness campaigns, terracing, and dust
reduction measures at Pafiwa Mutasa High School. This solution has the potential to address multiple
aspects of air pollution and promote sustainability.
Stage 4: Development of Selected Ideas
The selected solution is *Awareness Campaigns*. Awareness campaigns will be organized at Pafiwa
Mutasa High School to educate students and the community about the importance of clean air and
promote behaviors that reduce air pollution. The materials used will include posters, brochures, and
presentations. The process will involve researching and creating educational materials, organizing
presentations and workshops, and distributing posters and brochures around the school and
community.
By Tatenda Mawonya
Contact 0771253531
Stage 5: Presentation of Results
The awareness campaign was implemented, and the results were as follows:
- The campaign reached over 500 students and community members, promoting awareness and
behavioral change.
- A survey conducted after the campaign showed a significant increase in awareness about air pollution
and its effects.
- The campaign demonstrated the effectiveness of awareness-raising initiatives in promoting
environmental conservation and reducing air pollution.
Stage 6: Evaluation and Recommendations
The project faced challenges in engaging the community, but these were overcome by partnering with
local organizations and using social media platforms. The project was successful in raising awareness and
promoting behavioral change, but there is still room for improvement. Recommendations for future
projects include:
- Implementing a combination of solutions to address multiple aspects of air pollution.
- Engaging the community more effectively through outreach programs and social media campaigns.
- Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the solution over a longer period.
