Here is how the project went:
The Green Teens Recycled Superheroes accomplished a great deal at the end of their project. They created four "Litter Cleanup kits" to circulate at the library with a brochure containing information about local resources and tips for conducting a cleanup. They went on two educational field trips and executed the design and completion of two nature-themed murals to be displayed in the Youth Services department at the Middle Country Public Library to inspire others in our community to increase their recycling efforts and to keep materials out of our landfill.
Through this project I/we learned:
The Green Teens Recycled Superheroes learned that many in the community are not aware of the various ways in which materials can be recycled at the Town facility. On the tour of the materials recovery facilty, they learned about specific types of items that can be recycled, the equipment and workers that sorts the recycled material, and gained an overall increased understanding of the process and how we can work towards eliminating the amount of trash that goes to the landfill.
What I/we might change:
We might offer more opportunities to clean up the community. It was very well received by teens and I think that all ages would be interested in participating.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
The field trips were eye-opening; the materials recovery facility tour was very comprehensive and all of us felt we had such a good understanding of the recycling process to see it first hand. At the beach cleanup, we were shocked at all of the microplastics found on the shore.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
Hands-on activities are the most engaging when working with teens. We tried to incorporate as many hands-on learning experiences as possible to hold their attention in order to focus on tackling the environmental issue at hand.
