Algalita’s fieldtrips foster environmental stewardship by connecting students with their watershed through real hands-on research and investigation.
Our mission is to design and deliver educational experiences that empower individuals to understand the full-scope of plastic pollution’s impact on people and the planet, while also providing tangible ways to support solutions. Our fieldtrips give students a first-hand experience to help them understand humans’ impact on the environment and an introduction into the ways synthetic materials impact society.
OUR FIELDTRIPS AT A GLANCE
- Fieldtrips may be scheduled throughout the school year
- 20-40 students per fieldtrip
- Our fieldtrips are open to Grades 6 and up, including college/university classes, home school, and community groups.
Please fill out our interest form for more information and to discuss scheduling options.
WHAT WE’LL INVESTIGATE
During our fieldtrips, students:
- Collect their own water samples and analyze them for microplastics
- Measure water quality in Alamitos Bay
- Conduct a trash audit and visual bio-survey of marine organisms in our urban coastal environment
- Investigate plastic pollution in beach sand to evaluate sources
- Map their watershed and sources and sinks of pollution, as well as policies and solutions addressing plastic pollution
- Discuss and view solutions at our refill shop
- Connect with the founder and scientists at our sister nonprofit’s state-accredited research laboratory
Find follow-up step-by-step action projects for students to address plastic pollution at home, school, and beyond in our Student Hub. Ask about scheduling a follow-up in-class presentation to kickstart student projects.
Based on your time constraints, grade level, and educational goals, we’ll work with you to fine-tune the fieldtrip experience.
FEES AND FINANCIAL AID
- We do charge a fee for fieldtrips (approximately $20-50/student depending on activities and duration).
- Financial aid, including fee waivers and bus fee reimbursement, available by application to public schools with restrictions as funding lasts.
- **UPDATE – All financial aid funds for the 2025–26 school year have been allocated. In some cases, cities or districts (like Diamond Bar) provide their own funding for field trips. We’re happy to work with you to explore whether your school has local support available.
Please fill out our interest form for more information and to discuss scheduling options.
“I love how your resources are not just about the science, they’re also about passion, love for something, creating connection.”
– Teacher at Algalita Summit
JOIN OUR
COMMUNITY
We are community members, educators and students moving towards a world where plastic pollution is unthinkable!
Sign up for our newsletter for updates, events, educational resources, and opportunities to get involved.
