Development of prototype schools for environmental risk prevention based on the concept of "clean air, safe food, and well-maintained buildings”

Abstract

This study aimed to develop prototype schools designed to prevent environmental pollutants, such as PM2.5, asbestos, lead, and pesticides, using a research and development approach. The study was divided into 4 phases: phase 1 situation analysis, assessing existing school initiatives to address environmental issues; phase 2 guideline development, developing operational protocols for target schools; phase 3 implementation, launching the guidelines in selected schools; and phase 4 evaluation, measuring outcomes and effectiveness. Data collection included focus group discussions, observations, and document reviews, using discussion guides and performance evaluation forms. Content analysis and descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis. In Phase 1, 29 participants from 23 schools participated online focus group discussions. Most schools reported engaging in farming activities, they highlighted knowledge gaps in lead and asbestos prevention. From Phase 2 to Phase 4, 6 key components for prototype schools and 4 measures for environmental pollution prevention were established based on 22 criteria. A total of 21 schools from across the country participated in the implementation phase, most of which were from kindergarten to lower secondary levels. An analysis of the implementation for each measure revealed that all schools completely implemented measures to prevent PM2.5. Measures to prevent asbestos and pesticide exposure were achieved by at least 19 schools, while measures to prevent lead contamination were adopted by at least 18 schools. Notably, innovative solutions were developed by 8 schools to enhance their preventive measures. The evaluation showed that all participating schools achieved over 70% compliance with the established measures. The Department of Disease Control, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is currently working to extend these initiatives to a wider range of schools.