The Deceptive Face of Plastic
Prienai “Žiburys“ gymnasium
2024 - 2025
Objective
To assess the pollution levels of rivers in Prienai city, focusing on macro and microplastics, as well as the chemical properties of water. The project also aims to compare water pollution in the Baltic and Mediterranean Seas, and to motivate the local community to engage in environmental problem-solving.
09-05
Activity Plan
Gather and analyze materials related to plastic pollution and water testing. Identify possibilities for conducting water quality tests and discuss them with students. Study scientific literature on plastics—their types, environmental and biological impacts, and effects on human health. Identify pollution sources in Prienai and its district.
Visit the Lithuanian Energy Institute to learn about the tools and methods necessary for the research.
Organize a 5-day study visit to the University of Marseille to explore international research methods and practices.
Organize a 4-day summer camp called “Eco Explorers” by the Baltic Sea. The goal of the camp is to conduct sea water tests, learn about research methodologies, and get acquainted with the work of scientists. During the camp, initiate cooperation with Klaipėda University and visit the Lithuanian Sea Museum.
08-09
In collaboration with students, form a team of the most active participants and develop a detailed schedule of activities. Select rivers, locations, and the specific times when research and sampling will take place.
Research and analysis
Learning phase
10-06
Planning phase
02-06
Activity Plan
Organize a brainstorming seminar to educate students about microplastics in our environment.
10-05
Collect water samples, conduct tests, and analyze results. Collaborate with the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology and arrange consultations with scientists from various universities as needed.
Dissemination phase
Research phase
Implementation of activities
Implementation of activities
Water Sample Collection
Chemical and Physical Properties of Water Analysis
2
Samples were collected from the Neman River, Revuona, Nuotaka, and Mielupis streams in September.
The physical properties of water were determined: temperature, color, and odor.�The chemical properties tested included pH, nitrate, nitrite, phosphorus, and magnesium ion concentrations.
Implementation of activities
Macroplastic Research
"Plastic Pirates" Ambassador Meeting in Brussels 2
Waste was collected along the Nemanas River shoreline, and the species composition of the waste was analyzed.
Students presented macroplastic research conducted across Lithuania and in the Prienai district.
Implementation of activities
Visit to the Lithuanian Energy Institute
Microplastic Research
Microplastic studies were conducted in the rivers and streams of Prienai city.
Implementation of activities
Visit to Marseille
Environmental Cleanup Campaign
Mediterranean Sea water testing and evaluation of micro and macroplastic pollution.
Trash collection and sorting along the Neman River shoreline.
Implementation of activities
Conference "Back to Nature"
International Conference "Open Readings 2025"
Organized by the National Center for Physical and Technology Sciences and the Life Sciences Center, featuring lectures, workshops, and student presentations. One presentation was awarded as the best scientific research.
A national conference aimed at disseminating student research projects. Three scientific presentations from Prienai "Žiburio" Gymnasium students were presented.
Implementation of activities
What Do You Know About Microplastics?
Summer Camp in Klaipėda
Baltic Sea research and project completion.
Presentation of the research project activities to the Prienai "Žiburio Gymnasium" community. Two projects were presented: "Microplastic Studies in Prienai Rivers" and "Assessment of Water Quality in Prienai Rivers."
Actvities of students during biology and chemistry lessons
Each of us is responsible for the condition of the environment we live in, which is why this project offers a great opportunity to develop competencies in citizenship, responsibility, and public health preservation.