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Ocean Plastics

Ocean Plastics
Contributors
Beyond Benign
Beyond Benign, Inc.
Learning Objets
Summary
In this interactive, discussion-driven lesson, students explore the global problem of plastic pollution in the ocean and investigate how green chemistry and biomimicry can provide innovative solutions. Students examine the life cycle of plastics, identify common types of ocean plastic and microplastics, and discuss the limitations of recycling alone. The lesson culminates in a hands-on activity where students create and evaluate Ooho-like edible water pods made from alginate, applying green chemistry criteria—safety, cost, and performance—to assess this alternative packaging. Through systems thinking, experimentation, and reflection, students learn how chemistry can prevent pollution at the design stage and inspire a re-imagining of single-use plastics.
Keyword Tags
Ocean Plastics
Green Chemistry
Biomimicry
Sustainable Packaging
Microplastics
File (PDF, PPT, image, etc)
ocean_plastics_talking_points.pptx
Learning Goals/Student Objectives
- Describe the scale and impact of plastic pollution in the ocean.
- Explain why most plastics are not recycled and persist in the environment.
- Identify microplastics and explain how they form through photodegradation.
- Apply green chemistry criteria (safety, cost, performance) to evaluate materials.
- Create and evaluate a biodegradable, edible alternative to plastic packaging.
- Propose strategies for reducing plastic waste through redesign and behavior change.
Object Type
Activities/Technology (e.g., in-class activities, online games, hands-on activities/manipulatives, outreach, virtual tools, etc.)
Audience
Elementary School
Middle School
Other Faculty Educators/Teachers
Green Chemistry Principles
Waste Prevention
Designing Safer Chemicals
Design for Energy Efficiency
Use of Renewable Feedstocks
Design for Degradation
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Good Health and Well-Being
Quality Education
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Safety Precautions, Hazards, and Risk Assessment
- Sodium alginate and calcium lactate/chloride are food-grade but not for unrestricted consumption
- Students with food allergies should be identified in advance
- No tasting without instructor approval
-Spills possible; clean surfaces promptly
- Hand washing required after activity
- Overall risk level: Low to Moderate with proper supervision
NGSS Standards, if applicable
5-ESS3-1: Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect Earth’s resources and environment.

MS-ESS3-3 (adaptable): Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.

HS-ESS3-4 (adaptable): Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.

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Submitted by

Tyler Schisler
Published on
Moderation state
Published