In term 4 last year, Whakarua learned about plastic pollution as a part of our inquiry unit.

Each homeroom was assigned a marine animal to save. In doing so we learned about how plastic pollution, particularly single-use plastic negatively impacts marine life. If this were to continue, our marine animals may become endangered or even extinct.

Our children wrote and presented speeches and persuasive letters outlining the effects plastic waste has on our marine life and what we can do to help. In class, we looked at ways of reducing plastic waste in our lunchboxes by using plastic-free alternatives like honey bee wraps or containers you can reuse. We also looked at how recycling works and what can and cannot be easily recycled.

We decided to send our persuasive letters to Jacinda Ardern, our Prime Minister to raise awareness and see what New Zealand was doing to help. Early this week we got a reply which is super exciting! In the letter, she outlines many things that our Government are implementing to reduce plastic waste. See the letter below. Ka pai to all of those children involved.