Suggestions

Here are some additional classroom activities.

1. Contact National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and obtain information on how source reduction is used on the Space Shuttle. How are necessary items packaged to minimize waste? What types of choices must be made for the benefit of the crew as opposed to the individual? For NASA information, please visit: www.nasa.gov
   
   
2. National parks and some state parks have a carry in/carry out policy. How does this affect what you pack for a picnic or for a camping trip?
   
   
3. Do you have food cooperatives or bulk buying programs in your community? How does this method of consumer buying cut down on waste?
   
   
4. Keep a diary of what you consumed and used one week prior to the activity and then the week after the activity. Were there any changes in your habits since this unit?
   
   
5. Why do you think manufacturers spend time and money on various packaging decisions such as product protection, aesthetics, product information, environmental protection, safety, convenience, and economics? Bring samples of product packaging and discuss with peers how manufacturers can reduce the amount of packaging on those products. Pick one product and design a new package for it. Then write a letter to the manufacturer’s packaging department suggesting your packaging idea.