4 Cool Science Experiments for Kids That Teach Sustainability

Teaching kids about sustainability doesn’t have to feel like a classroom lecture—it can be hands-on, exciting, and fun. With a few everyday items, you can set up simple science experiments that help children understand how the environment works and why protecting it matters.

Here are four easy, eco-themed experiments you can do right at home:

1. Seeing Air Pollution

Air pollution is often invisible, making it hard for kids to grasp. This activity shows that the air around us isn’t always as clean as it looks.

You’ll need:

• A clear plastic plate or cup

• Petroleum jelly

• A rock or small weight

• A piece of white paper

Coat the plastic surface with petroleum jelly, then place it outside with a rock on top to keep it from blowing away. After 24 hours, put the white paper behind it and observe all the tiny particles that have collected. It’s a great way to start conversations about clean air and pollution.

2. DIY Compost in a Bottle

Watching decomposition happen is fascinating for kids. This experiment lets them see the composting process up close.

You’ll need:

• A clear 2-liter plastic bottle

• Soil

• Leaves, grass clippings, or food scraps

Cut the top off the bottle, then layer soil and compostable material until it’s full. Add just enough water to moisten it, and place it somewhere sunny. Over the next few weeks, kids can observe how scraps break down, turning into nutrient-rich compost. Older kids can keep a simple journal to track changes day by day.

3. Glaciers in Motion

Glaciers are massive and complex, but you can recreate their melting and movement right in your backyard.

You’ll need:

• A plastic container filled with frozen water

• A bin or tray

Soil, leaves, and other natural debris

Fill your bin with soil and debris, then tilt it slightly. Place the ice block at the top and watch as it slowly slides down, picking up dirt along the way. Refreeze and repeat to see how melting and freezing reshape the “landscape.” Kids can record observations and see firsthand how glaciers impact the earth.

4. Cleaning Up Oil Spills

Oil spills can be devastating to wildlife. This experiment demonstrates why rescuers need soap—not just water—to clean oil from birds and other animals.

You’ll need:

• A plastic bottle
• Water
• Cooking oil
• Food coloring
• Dish soap

Fill the bottle halfway with water, then add oil. Watch as the oil floats on top. Add

a few drops of food coloring, then mix in dish soap. The soap acts as an emulsifier, allowing the oil and water to combine and mix evenly. This simple demo shows why soap is essential in real-life oil spill cleanups.

Science experiments like these make sustainability lessons fun and memorable. They spark curiosity while teaching kids how nature works and why caring for the planet is so important.

At The Ecofairy, we love turning everyday moments into opportunities to protect and nurture our environment. 🌱✨