4-H2O – Youth Learn Water Quality and Sustainability during National Experiment
Betsy Fradd, WSU Extension 4-H
Over 1,000 Washington State youth are now more aware of how carbon footprints and climate change impact communities after taking part in the 2010 4-H2O national experiment.
In a hands-on activity students blew through a straw into a color indicating mixture to see how CO2 levels built-up in water. They watched as the water changed from light blue to yellow indicating the increase in carbon dioxide. Next, they added antacid tablets to water in plastic bags to see how gas causes the bags to expand. Students learned how CO2 expands in the earth’s atmosphere and how it can lead to global climate change.
“It is important to be aware of which activities we partake in that cause pollution,” commented Olivia, 13, from Tacoma. “It makes me want to have a better understanding of what I can do to reduce toxins.”
Students discussed how higher amounts of carbon dioxide can affect aquatic animals, plants and other living organisms in lakes, streams, rivers 
and oceans during the October 6 event.
“Inspiring youth to examine their surroundings and take notice of what they can do to effect change for the better is one of the most important things we can do for our students and the future,” said Linda McLean, WSU Colville Reservation-Ferry County Extension Coordinator.
Using workbooks and online guides, the experiment helped youth relate their experiences back to their own lives. They practiced measuring a carbon footprint and estimated energy savings by looking at gas and electric bills.
In an effort to combat a national shortage of young people pursuing science college majors and careers, 4-H is reaching out to 1 million youth in science, engineering and technology programs by 2013. The university research-based science curriculum, combined with 4-H National Youth Science Day, is designed to provide youth with the necessary technical skills to stay competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Posted October 2010
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