Lesson 2
Split children into 5 groups and assign each group one of the following carbon footprint categories: water, waste, energy, transportation, and food. Have children read the article(s) related to their topic and take notes on ways to reduce their carbon footprints.
Note: If only one or two children you can create 5 stations for each category
- Carbon Footprint Food
- Carbon Footprint Transportation
- Carbon Footprint Energy
- Carbon Footprint Waste
- Carbon Footprint Water
Have children work with their groups (or with the help of a parent) to complete one of the following projects:
Create a “Did You Know?” PSA or Podcast detailing how you can decrease your carbon footprint in the following categories: water, waste, energy, transportation, and food.
Wite an article for the school newspaper detailing how you can decrease your carbon footprint in the following categories: water, waste, energy, transportation, and food.
Service Project Ideas:
- Trash Free Lunches
- Park Clean-up
- Beach Clean-up
- River Clean-up
- Develop a School-wide No Idle Zone Initiative
- Fundraise for Environmental Organizations
- Volunteer to Remove Invasive Plants
Reflection Questions:
- How do you feel about your own personal carbon footprint?
- How might it be challenging to change your actions to reduce it?
- Why is it important for everyone to be aware of and consider reducing their carbon footprint?
Additional Resources:
How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Zero Waste Family Makes No Household Garbage for 3 Years!
7 Eye-Opening Facts for Earth Day
13-Year-Old Called “Trash Girl” by Bullies Wins Award for her Word to Save the Planet