“Thank you for recycling,” cheered Montessori’s first Eco Flash Mob as random passersby picked up strewn cans and tossed them in the strategically placed recycling bin.
About 25 students, parents, and teachers from the Interact Club at the Virgin Islands Montessori School and International Academy gathered to promote recycling on St. Thomas. The group met Saturday morning at the Redhook ferry terminal, took a safari bus to Tutu Mall, and ended at Magens Bay.
Eco Flash Mobs encourage environmental awareness and preservation by surprising and thanking people for doing good deeds. The Montessori students managed to keep their plans a secret as they prepared to congratulate people for recycling.
“[The students] are very independent when it comes to getting involved in the community,” said Montessori math teacher Marion Elliot. “Sadly, facilities are strongly lacking expenses. If it was more economical to recycle, I think more people would.”
Participants set a recycling bin in several public locations and scattered recyclables in the area, casually waiting until someone walked by and recycled an item. The Flash Mob then cheered and held up signs on recycled paper.
“It’s an easy way to get involved and make people feel good,” said senior Nia Hazell who orchestrated the event.
Everyone clapped and whistled as unsuspecting people tossed cans in the recycling bin. The surprised good Samaritans bowed, some blushed and waved, and others ducked their heads and ran for the closest taxi. Bystanders took up the applause as well, reinforcing what the good Montessori students are doing.
Grailville Elliott, one of those who innocently recycled a can, thought the activity was a great opportunity for the children. “It’s wonderful. Good for the island. We need to rework the government money and collect for recycling.”
Mother Erolynn Phelan said that her children are making her more environmentally conscience. “They tell me ‘Mom, please don’t use plastic bags at the grocery store.’”
Oral Hazell, father of the event organizer, was proud that the students are planning for the next generation and making a positive impact. “They’re thinking ahead to preserve the natural habitat that we have. They’re affecting future choices.”
