River Rubbish Removal

What happens when science, engineering, and environmental stewardship collide? In the River Rubbish Removal design challenge, students become environmental engineers and innovators as they explore the human impact on freshwater systems. 

Through hands-on problem-solving, students will apply their understanding of organisms and environments to design a floating device or system that removes plastic and other debris from a simulated river or harbor.

Acknowledgements:
This collection was created in collaboration with JASON Learning and the Region 4 Education Service Center in Houston, TX.

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River Rubbish Removal

In this module, students will investigate how trash enters waterways and examine the long-term impact of microplastics on the environment. They will explore and analyze real-world cleanup solutions, such as Mr. Trash Wheel and the Interceptor™, to inspire their own innovations. Students will then design, build, and test a prototype capable of floating, collecting, and safely removing simulated rubbish from a waterway. The module concludes with students presenting their designs to peers and reflecting on potential improvements and the broader environmental implications of their work.

Target Audience:

Grades 6-8

Key Concepts and Vocabulary:

Aquatic, biodegradable, current, debris, filter, harbor, marine, microplastics, river, rubbish, vessel

Included Materials

This module guides students through all phases of the Engineering Design Process (EDP) using a series of scaffolded activities. Each phase is structured to be completed in short, focused sessions across multiple class periods.

While suggested materials for the challenge are provided, they are not included.

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