The Benjamin Logan Environmental Science Club (ESC) continues to keep students engaged with timely, hands-on lessons that connect science, sustainability, and everyday life. Recent meetings have focused on two important topics: plastic recycling and growing healthy food.
Understanding Plastic Recycling in Logan County
At the club’s most recent meeting, students learned about the history and impact of plastics with Jacob King, representative of the Logan County Solid Waste District.
Jacob walked the group through the development of plastics during World War II, when the material became widely used due to its durability and versatility. Students then explored how plastic use expanded rapidly in the post-war era, shaping modern consumer life, for better and for worse.
The session also highlighted how plastics are collected and processed for recycling in Logan County. Students viewed a variety of products created from recycled materials, gaining a better understanding of how the recycling loop works locally.
As a creative wrap-up activity, ESC members used plastic beads to design small objects of their own, demonstrating how discarded materials can be repurposed into something new and useful.
From Recycling to Growing: Planting Microgreens
The week prior, students followed up on their earlier lessons about healthful eating by planting microgreens.
Microgreens are young, edible seedlings grown from vegetable and herb seeds. Despite their small size, they are packed with flavor and nutrients. Students learned how easy it is to grow these tender greens and how they can be incorporated into meals at home.
This hands-on experience reinforced the idea that sustainability starts with small, practical steps—whether it’s reducing waste or growing your own food.
Monitoring the Trout Aquarium
In addition to recycling and gardening, ESC members continue to care for the brown trout being raised on campus. During this session, students conducted a nitrate test on the aquarium water. When results showed elevated levels, the group determined that a water change was necessary.
This exercise emphasized responsibility, data-based decision-making, and how environmental conditions directly affect aquatic life.
Learning Through Action
The Benjamin Logan Environmental Science Club remains a strong example of how students can learn by doing—whether studying global material use, planting sustainable food sources, or maintaining healthy aquatic systems.
The ESC program is supported through a partnership between Benjamin Logan Schools and the Logan County Land Trust, providing meaningful environmental education opportunities for young learners.
Consider volunteering or making a donation to help continue these hands-on learning experiences for Logan County students.
