Science Circuit in Early Childhood Education: planting environmental awareness with the No Forest, No Future project

Abstract

The project Sem Floresta, Sem Futuro: O Impacto do Desmatamento na Qualidade de Vida da População (No Forest, No Future: The Impact of Deforestation on the Population's Quality of Life) was developed with children aged 4 to 5 at the Centro de Educação Infantil 01 in Taguatinga, and won first place in the early childhood education category at the regional stage of the 13th Science Circuit for Public Schools in the Federal District, as well as second place in the district stage. Guided by the Resource Room teacher and the psychologist, the project promoted scientific initiation and environmental education, with an emphasis on sustainability and school inclusion. Through an experiment simulating different vegetation covers, it was shown that the absence of vegetation causes soil erosion and landslides, while live grass maintains soil stability and protects buildings. Complementary activities, such as growing seedlings in personalized cups, making seed pencils and creating panels with PET caps, reinforced concepts of reuse and environmental care. The results showed the children's engagement, the development of socio-emotional skills, advances in socialization and language, as well as awareness of the importance of environmental preservation as an essential factor for quality of life. The project was aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, especially in terms of quality education, reducing inequalities, responsible consumption, climate action and preserving life on Earth. In this way, it contributed to the formation of critical and aware students, prepared to face current and future environmental challenges, promoting a culture of sustainability from an early age and strengthening the integration between science, inclusion and socio-environmental responsibility.