STEMunity is proud to be supporting the team at Revolution Plastics to deliver a nationally significant citizen science project as part of Science Week.

Through participation in The Big Plastic Count, primary and secondary school students will take part in a real-world scientific investigation into plastic waste. By collecting and submitting data from their everyday lives, young people are contributing directly to university-led research that helps build a clearer picture of plastic consumption in the UK and strengthens the evidence base needed to inform future action.

This project offers schools a meaningful opportunity to engage students in authentic science. It connects curriculum learning to pressing global challenges, supports data literacy and scientific enquiry, and empowers young people to see themselves as contributors to research, not just learners in the classroom.

All resources are free, curriculum-linked, and designed to be easy for teachers to deliver, whether at class or whole-school level. By taking part, schools join a growing national movement using young people’s voices and data to support a more sustainable future.

Why take part?

Taking part gives pupils the chance to be involved in real scientific research with real impact.

By joining this citizen science project, schools support Revolution Plastics while helping students take part in a national investigation into plastic waste.

Real scientific enquiry – Hands-on data collection linked to a live, university-supported research project.

Key investigation skills – Build observation, data handling, and critical thinking skills.

Sustainability in action – Connect curriculum learning to environmental responsibility and real-world issues.

Pupil voice and agency –Students see how their evidence contributes to wider understanding and change.

Teacher-ready resources – Free, curriculum-linked materials designed to be easy to deliver.

A purposeful Science Week activity – Move beyond one-off activities to meaningful participation.

How do schools get involved?