Recife (Brazil). Inspired by the 2025 Fraternity Campaign promoted by the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil (CNBB) with the theme, “Fraternity and Integral Ecology”, Saint Mary Mazzarello School in Recife, belonging to Mary Help of Christians Province (BRE), has developed an innovative pedagogical-pastoral project involving students and Past Pupils of the School.
The reflection on integral ecology, proposed by Pope Francis in the Encyclical Laudato Si’, supports a holistic approach that integrates the social, environmental, and economic dimensions, with the aim of promoting sustainable and equitable development, able to respond to contemporary challenges in a fair and responsible way.
Based on this deep reflection and approaching the Common Home in the light of the Christian vision that, “God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good.” (Gen 1:31), young people, with the support of the teachers, have developed E-Connect Recycle, an innovative and transformative application.
The goal of the app is to optimize the recycling process by directly connecting those who want to recycle to the points of purchase of recyclable materials. Acting as an intermediary between those who find disposable materials and the nearest retail outlets, E-Connect Recycle ensures fairer prices while encouraging the circular economy, a sustainable production and consumption model that contributes significantly to the protection of the environment.
In addition to facilitating recycling, E-Connect Recycle integrates technology, social justice, and sustainability, reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility in preserving the environment and addressing today’s most pressing environmental problems. The project highlights the need for collective action to ensure a more sustainable future, where harmony between humans and nature is preserved for future generations.
“It needs educators capable of developing an ethics of ecology, and helping people through effective pedagogy, to grow in solidarity, responsibility, and compassionate care” Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, 210).
