From Trash to Treasure

Upcycle plastic bags that would thrown out while creating art and learn about the properties of materials. Students will be able to identify the benefits and consequences of plastic properties and functions. Students will explore how to alter and upcycle waste plastics into new repurposed items with value as a solution to the plastic pollution problem.

"Taking it to the Streets" was developed by California Sea Grant, in partnership with the Ocean Discovery Institute and the NOAA Marine Debris Program. It includes a standardized street trash monitoring protocol and hands-on Trash Troop science education activities. The monitoring protocols are intended for community scientists of all ages and backgrounds, and the educational activities are aimed at students grades 8 through 12 for use in classrooms, clubs, scouts, camps, after-school programs and more. 

These educational activities and lessons align to Next Generation Science Standards and engage students in hands-on learning to understand, assess, and address plastic pollution in their community. By focusing on urban areas and contexts in lesson materials, the Trash Troop science education activities provide the resources and opportunity for place-based learning in areas that are often overlooked in marine debris lessons.