Land, water and bees - don't take us for granted

Students explore the issues surrounding our common but precious resources – land, water and bees. They will start by investigating their own ecological footprint via the food they eat.

Then grow plants hydroponically and discuss the pros and cons of this method of agriculture. They will look at local and global water use, and explore bee health through video, discussion, a survey and activities linked to pollinators.

Hydroponics

Water resources are finite, while the human population is growing fast, and with it our demand for water to grow food. How can we produce enough food to ensure food security while conserving our environment?

This investigation uses a simple DIY hydroponics unit as a focus to explore how food plants can be grown in a small space, and to enable students to investigate what substances plants need to grow well in a study that they can plan themselves if desired.

Bees and their pollinating partners

Bees are vital in many ecosystems, including those on which humans rely. In recent years bee populations in this country and around the world have declined.

Scientists warn that 71 of around 267 bee species are threatened and more than 20 have already become extinct. Data is vital if we are to preserve them. This practical investigation involves collecting data on bees locally, with the opportunity to compare results from schools in other areas or in other seasons.