Got an eco-minded kid at your house? Here’s a way for them to get creative: Project Blue Planet. The contest, which is run by the Smithsonian’s National Zoo (and sponsored by KIWI, Whole Foods Market, and the EPA, among others), aims to get kids in elementary, middle, and high school thinking about ways to help the oceans and the environment—and spread that message to others.
Students work with their classmates or a group of friends to put together a project that encourages others to help the planet. To get started, there’s a list of categories on the National Zoo’s website that includes various project ideas (examples: “community clean-ups” and “serve only sustainable seafood”)—though kids can come up other ideas, too. Has your child’s class already done a project that fits the bill? If it started after February 1, it can be submitted!
All projects entered correctly will get a “Seal” of Approval certificate. For the winning school at each level: $1,500 to keep up the good work. (An honorable mention will also get $1,000). Click here for the full guidelines, including how to submit a project, judging criteria, and examples of past projects.
