PSZOK SORCIK in Action! Earth Day in Chorzów Full of Knowledge, Fun, and Inspiration

On June 5–6, 2025, the Municipal Selective Waste Collection Point (PSZOK) SORCIK at Kaliny 1 Street in Chorzów transformed into a hub of environmental education. As part of the LIFE project “Silesia. Blue Sky Restored” and the EU Green Week, a special closed event titled “EcoMission: PSZOK SORCIK in Action!” was held to celebrate Earth Day. The initiative was organized under the patronage of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

350 Students, Dozens of Workshops, and One Shared Mission: Hands-On Environmental Education

Over two days, approximately 350 pupils from grades 4–6 of local primary schools took part in meticulously organized sessions. Each class had a designated time slot, allowing for small-group interaction and hands-on learning. The workshop format promoted both knowledge retention and active participation.

Interactive Learning Zones and Eco Attractions

The event’s program was rich and varied. Pupils engaged in activities such as:

• A waste segregation station, where instead of lectures, children practiced sorting by fishing magnet-equipped trash from a pool and categorizing it into the correct bins.
• An air quality booth and a gas combustion demonstration, conducted by eco-manager Bartosz Kwiecień and colleagues from the Waste Management Department.
• Lectures on the role of trees in air purification and climate regulation.
• Workshops by the Silesian University of Technology, focusing on innovative waste management solutions and sustainable technologies.
• Workshops from the University of Silesia’s Institute of Materials Engineering, highlighting the impact of industrial materials and circular approaches.
• A live waste truck demonstration by the ALBA company.
• Circular economy-themed workshops by the KOSZ Collective (Conscientious Waste Collectors) from the Chorzów Youth Cultural Center.

Peer Education and an Outdoor Environmental Cinema

A new feature this year was the involvement of students from Chorzów’s Third Secondary School, who supported workshop leaders as peer mentors. This setup encouraged easier communication and learning among participants. The day also featured a screening in the outdoor eco cinema, showing a film about plastic recycling and the journey of waste materials.

Outdoor Game “Air and Forests” and Reflection on Everyday Habits

One of the most engaging elements was the “Air and Forests” outdoor game, during which pupils explored the links between air pollution and forest health. Through interactive challenges, they learned how daily habits — such as proper waste sorting or transport choices — directly affect local ecosystems.

Young Eco-Leaders – From the PSZOK to a Better Tomorrow

“EcoMission: PSZOK SORCIK in Action!” proved that children and youth are not just learners but also ambassadors of environmental change. Events like this build awareness, shape positive habits, and inspire action — at school and at home. In Chorzów, environmental education means action, not just theory — and that’s what truly makes a difference.

Photos: UM Chorzów