Reusable Tote Bags
Reusable Tote Bags
Topic: Save the Planet: Reduce and Reuse!
Empowerment Video: Environmental Science Issues
Basic Supplies:
- Plain canvas tote bag, one per student
- Fabric paints or fabric markers
- Paintbrushes
- Newspaper or cardboard, one piece per student
- Optional: Aprons or old shirts to protect students’ clothing
- Optional: Stencils, sponges, or stamps
Video Discussion:
Ask, “What environmental science issues do you know about?”
Direct students to turn and talk to a partner. Then, bring the class together to discuss student ideas.
Explain that students will be learning about even more environmental science issues, and some potential solutions in the video.
After watching the video Environmental Science Issues, use some or all of the following questions to discuss the video content:
- What is your environment? How do you know?
- What do you already do to take care of your environment? How do these things help keep you healthy and happy?
- The health of our planet impacts us all. Should everyone be equally responsible for taking care of the planet or should some people be more responsible than others? Why?
- Do the choices that you make in your environment impact other environments in your community? What about environments in other parts of the world?
- One role model said that girls “have the ability to be role models to those around them.” What kind of role model are you? What can you say or do to help the environment that might inspire others?
Activity Instructions:
Students will be creating a reusable tote bag. Small, everyday choices, like reducing our reliance on plastic bags, can make a big difference in preserving ecosystems and addressing climate change.
Caring for the environment starts with small actions that can make a big difference. In this activity, you'll think about nature and the importance of protecting our planet. Then, you’ll design and paint a reusable tote bag with a nature-themed design to show your commitment to the environment.
- Gather your materials including a blank tote bag, fabric paints or markers, and newspaper or cardboard.
- Prepare your tote bag to be painted by placing the newspaper or cardboard inside. It will prevent your paint from leaking through and staining the back of your bag.
- Brainstorm your design. What animals or environments do you want to focus on? Will you include any words or environmental saying such as, “Protect our Planet!” or “Save Water. Save the Earth.”?
- Once you’re happy with your design, use your fabric paint or fabric markers to paint your design on your tote bag. You can also use stencils, stamps, or sponges if they are available.
- Place your tote bag somewhere it can dry. This could take a few hours or all night depending on the type of paint or markers that you used.
- Show off your creation! Using your tote bag instead of plastic bags can help reduce waste and protect our environment. Plus, your unique design can inspire others to think about nature and how our small, everyday choices can make a big difference!
