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The University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Sciences - Chesapeake Biological Laboratory is expanding their “Wave of Plastics” curricular unit into two new Maryland counties,to help reduce marine debris in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Type of Project: Prevention
Region: Mid-Atlantic
Project Dates: September 2023 - August 2025
Who is involved?
With support from the NOAA Marine Debris Program, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Sciences - Chesapeake Biological Laboratory will work in partnership with Anne Arundel and Charles County Public Schools to adapt and implement the Wave of Plastics curricular unit to over 10,000 middle and high school students.
What is the project and why is it important?
The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, and its watershed is home to over 18 million people. Disposable, single-use plastics and microplastics are commonly found along the shorelines and in local waterways of the Chesapeake Bay. Due to its presence throughout the watershed, land-based litter and single-use plastics affect the everyday lives of middle and high school students. This presents an opportunity to incorporate marine debris prevention education into mainstream science classes, in alignment with state and national science standards.
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Sciences aims to reduce marine debris in the Chesapeake Bay, and beyond, expanding education and engagement to over 10,000 students who live and attend school within the watershed. They will expand the Wave of Plastics curricular unit to science classrooms in Anne Arundel and Charles County, Maryland. This project will introduce students to the complex issue of plastic pollution by engaging in authentic disciplinary lessons that culminate in a number of comprehensive, student driven, and informed action projects.
By engaging local students and teachers in a comprehensive lesson on plastic use, waste, impacts, and solutions, they will apply the lessons learned to reduce their plastic waste and ultimately lead to a reduction in marine debris with the Chesapeake Bay.