22/04/2026
It's World Earth Day 2026 and this years's theme is "Our Power, Our Planet".
Here's an experiment you can do at home, that shows what happens (or doesn't!) when plastic goes into the ground, instead of being recycled or reused.
🧪 WHAT YOU NEED
2 jam jars the same size
2 pieces of old fabric
Some soil
Food waste or small chopped up bits of fruit
Some small piece of plastic, like plastic bag
2 elastic bands
🔬 WHAT TO DO
1. Put 3cm of soil in each of the jam jars
2. In one jam jar, place some food waste or finely chopped fruit
3. In the other jam jar, place little bits of plastic
4. Place the piece of old fabric over the top of the jam jars and secure in place with an elastic band
5. Leave the jars in a warm spot for at least 5 days and note the changes
We think the results might surprise you!
🌱 WHAT'S HAPPENING
Plastic can take hundreds of years to break down. Bacteria eat natural waste to decompose or biodegrade it, but bacteria can't eat most plastics! This means plastic stays in the environment for a long time and can cause harm.
🌍 BONUS INFO
Scientists have discovered a bacteria called Ideonella Sakaiensis that can 'eat' plastics. Maybe you can do some research to find out more about it?
📢 REPORT BACK!
We would love you to come back and tell or show us what happens in your jars...
➡️ WHAT CAN YOU DO?
You have the power to protect the planet! Remember to use a reuseable water bottle, find new ways to use old plastic bags and remind your relatives and friends to take their reusable bags when they go shopping..
💡If you have any other ideas let us know!
