Yayasan SHEEP Indonesia worked with fourth and fifth grade students of SD Juara Yogyakarta on a carbon emission calculation activity and a tree planting session. The activity introduced the concept of carbon emissions. Carbon emissions are gases released from human activities such as motor vehicle use. These emissions contribute to global warming and affect weather, health, and climate justice. The students learned that calculating emissions helps them understand the impact and encourages actions to reduce emissions.

The students identified emission sources around them through direct observation and simple data analysis. They observed traffic along Jalan Bung Tarjo to the Gayam area. They recorded motorcycles, cars, trucks and buses for five minutes. Their notes showed more than 100 vehicles passing during that period.

They calculated carbon emissions by matching the number of passing vehicles with estimated emission values for each type of vehicle using a worksheet. They saw how much emissions came from vehicles near their school. YSI assisted the students in reading the data, completing the worksheet and drawing basic conclusions.

The students then counted the trees in the school area. They compared the carbon absorption capacity of the trees with the emissions generated by the vehicles. They found that the number of trees in the school was not enough to keep the air clean.

After analyzing the data, the students returned to their classroom and developed steps to reduce emissions. The results indicated the need for more trees. The students and teachers planted new trees in the school area. One teacher noted that the activity strengthened students understanding of the environmental impact of vehicles and provided meaningful learning experiences.

This activity gave the students direct practice in understanding the link between carbon emissions and climate change. They did more than study theory. They experienced the process of calculating emissions, assessing their environment and taking action for improvement.