Ward's® Landfills and the Environment Lab Activity

Students Work with Miniature Landfills in Hands-On Investigation

Determine which solid waste materials are biodegradable, identify types of bacteria present in different kinds of soil, and test the microbial degrading process by observing the landfills you create with the materials included in this lab activity. These investigations provide data that students can use to define the biodegradability of materials, as well as determine the real function of a landfill. You will get enough materials for three landfills, a list of additional outdoor activities, a teacher’s guide, and student copymasters. Time requirements include Investigation #1 (8 weeks), Investigation #2 (4-6 weeks), Investigation #3 (5 days), and Investigation #4 (2-3 weeks).