WOODBRIDGE, Ont. — A new chemistry workshop for elementary schoolchildren is showing the role science plays in protecting the environment.
The 45 minute We Dig Soil workshops that BASF developed will be presented to 800 grades 4 to 6 students in 30 western rural schools this fall.
Christina Stroud of BASF said the lab includes an “Earth as an apple” demonstration to illustrate how much land is available for agriculture and a hands-on activity to demonstrate how soil acts as a filter.
“Rural communities have a strong connection to agriculture, so delivering BASF kids’ labs provides an excellent opportunity to educate children about the science behind agriculture,” she said.
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The labs, which have been delivered in 16 countries, help children explore the world of chemistry through experiments designed to foster an interest in science as a hobby and career.
The Earth Rangers Centre presents the labs for BASF while also delivering its own conservation message.
Scott Tarof, Earth Rangers science adviser, said the centre offers multi-faceted conservation education.
“We educate kids about conservation, we educate adults about green building techniques and stewardship,” he said.
“The purpose of educational outreach is to educate but also to get people involved, engaged and working together as a national and global community to try to protect animals.”
The centre in Woodbridge features a green roof, skylights, geothermal heating and cooling systems, solar panels, waste-water management and recycled flooring materials. It also houses wildlife ranging from bald eagles to lynx, which serve as animal ambassadors in the centre’s conservation presentations across Canada and on YTV.
