Stars and STEM Stories
GLOBE Oman: Students Connect the Use of Plastics to Its Impacts on the Environment
In December 2024, the GLOBE Oman program supervisor and school activities specialist implemented an environmental program titled “My Environment, My Teacher.” The students’ data resulting from the implementation of Atmosphere and Hydrosphere Protocols in the GLOBE program was used as evidence of the change in temperature and rainfall over the past years. As a result of the fact that plastic is one of the proposed causes of temperature changes through burning it or directly disposing of it in nature, the GLOBE team sought to raise awareness of the harms of plastic through this activity. The program included several activities, including the Plastic-Free Day Challenge, in which students and teachers could participate. Participating students indicated that the challenge raised their awareness about the harmful effects of plastics. Many students said that the day was a refreshing change, a break from routine, and an opportunity to use environmentally friendly tools.
The Environmental Management Team, represented by Ms. Nada
Khalfan Al-Abri and Ms. Munira Al-Abri, also contributed to evaluating
the classrooms, engaging students in discussions, and asking questions
about the harms of plastics and the importance of implementing such a
challenge. As part of the event program, the GLOBE Oman team, in
cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, organized a field trip
to the wildlife and natural area in the Masrouq area. The visit aimed
to explore the prevailing plant species, resident bird groups, and
animal species that inhabit the area. In addition, a training activity
was conducted for students in applying the GLOBE Pedosphere (soil) Protocol.
The students received a comprehensive explanation from the environmental monitor of the site and observed the flocks of swallows that inhabit the site.
In the same week, the GLOBE team, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, conducted another field trip to Masruq, focusing on the wildlife and natural environment of the area. During this trip, the students were once again introduced to the prevailing plant species, bird groups, and animal species, with the environmental monitor providing detailed insights. In addition, the flocks of sandpipers inhabiting the area were observed.
In the same context, the GLOBE program supervisor, in cooperation with the school activities specialist, organized a drawing workshop titled “Draw your home garden or farm” in the school garden.
A number of students participated with the goal of highlighting the
role of the environment in shaping their artistic awareness and
sensory perception and honing their artistic skills in an
environmentally conscious manner.
Learn more about GLOBE Oman.
Story and photos contributed by Bader Salim Almaamari.