Paper or Plastic? Environmental Economics and Science

The new Arizona State Standards for both Science and Social Studies emphasize analyzing and using data to make informed decisions. To help you teach those skills, the Thomas R. Brown Foundation teamed up with The STEMAZing Project to offer a one-day workshop in environmental economics and science. Integrating both science and economic content—using hands-on activities—we hope teachers will use both economics and science to engage students to consider the complicated choice of paper or plastic.

Covered:
• Resources used to make paper and plastic containers (natural resources and polymers)
• Energy required to create and transport paper and plastic
• The costs of paper and plastic to users and the environment
• The costs of change
• Civic engagement: How your students can advocate for change