Bursa Metropolitan Municipality
The Pitch
The Green Capsule Project repurposed decommissioned shipping containers into mobile learning buses that bring nature-based education directly to underserved schools and communities across Bursa. Through hands-on lessons in sustainable agriculture, hydroponic farming and environmental awareness, the initiative reconnects children and youth with food systems, climate issues and green spaces.
The Problem
Bursa's rapid urbanization disconnected children and youth from nature, food systems and climate issues, with only 2.6% of young people in urban areas having direct access to agricultural spaces.
The Process
- Refurbished decommissioned industrial shipping containers into mobile learning spaces known as “green capsules” equipped with hydroponic farming systems, interactive digital exhibits and hands-on learning labs
- Deployed mobile units across 110 schools and pre-schools, public spaces and community events, making environmental education accessible to neighborhoods with limited green spaces
- Formed partnerships with local schools, education authorities and NGOs to integrate workshops into existing learning programs
- Used interactive demonstrations, hydroponic systems and sensory exhibits to teach children about food production, biodiversity and climate change
- Updated learning modules to reflect local heritage while expanding the model into rural districts of Bursa and other Turkish cities
The Impact
- Increased awareness of sustainable agriculture and environmental issues among 92% of participating students
- Increased student engagement with food security and recycling topics, according to 75% of participating teachers
- Reached 50,000 indirect beneficiaries through participants’ families, school staff, media coverage and public events, broadening environmental awareness and promoting healthier lifestyles across the city
- Introduced hydroponic and vertical farming to visitors, with 50% reporting no prior exposure to these approaches, expanding environmental literacy and awareness of green career pathways
- Inspired behavior change, with children growing plants at home, discussing climate issues in school and promoting sustainability with their families
