Bearsde
n Primary pupils were delighted when acclaimed ocean rower Elaine Hopley came to the school to see their recent exhibition on plastics pollution.
Elaine, who in 2017 became the first woman to row solo across the Atlantic in an open-class boat, was amongst parents and members of the community who visited the exhibition which presented the findings of a seven week enquiry-based project by Primary 7 pupils.
Eight groups of pupils were tasked with researching, processing and sharing information on plastic pollution including the causes, the damage it causes and how it can be prevented.
The event was part of Upstream Battle, a campaign being coordinated by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful which officially launched in East Dunbartonshire last week. Elaine Hopley is ambassador for the campaign which aims to draw attention to marine litter and the fact that it starts far from the sea.
During the course of their research, pupils interviewed companies including Walkers crisps and Lego, as well as members of the community. Exhibits of their hard work included 3D models, virtual reality experiences and journals.
Ms Hopley said, "I am so inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of the pupils I’ve met today. Their passion and motivation is incredible and they have really engaged with the issue of plastic pollution in our seas and waterways.
"Awareness about climate change and plastics pollution in particular is becoming a much bigger issue now thanks to people such as David Attenborough speaking out.
"It feels like we are reaching a turning point in public awareness now and projects like this are exactly what is required to engage the younger generation."
Councillor Susan Murray, Vice Convener of the Council's Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, "I was delighted to spend time with the pupils and hear about their investigations into plastic pollution and their ideas for potential solutions.
"This project seems to have ignited a passion in them for environmental issues. The work on show, along with the way they were able to express their findings, was very impressive.
"Many congratulations to all the pupils for their efforts and, of course, to the staff who have brought the whole project to life in such an engaging way."
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