SustainComp: Step 1 - Engaging and noticing (180min)

Introduction to the socio-scientific issues about sand

The global resources are limited. Water is the most used resource but to most people it is surprising that sand is the second most used resource. We actually use 18 kilo sand per person per day. So, what do we use sand for?

Typically, sand is used for construction (concrete and glass production), infrastructure (asphalt), electronics, cosmetics etc.

Why do we have a sand crisis when there is so much sand in e.g. the Sahara desert? Due to the size and form of the sand grains, it cannot meet the demands for industrial use. The sand grains in the Sahara and on the coasts (e.g. in Denmark) are too small and round. In this course of study, the students are introduced to the sand crisis as a socio-scientific issue, and to the dilemmas associated with this crisis.

Preparation

There is no preparation for the lecture.
The students must bring their laptop and are asked to be open-minded towards the topic for the lectures.

Program

After a short presentation from the teacher (use the presentation below), the students will watch a 10 min video clip (CNBC reportage, 2021), and afterwards the students work in groups, where the teacher facilitates the engaging and noticing steps or stages.

Resources for Step 1 - Engaging and noticing

Presentation: Step 1 Lesson 1
CNBC reportage (2021) - Why the world is running out of sand.

- 1. Engaging and noticing
  - Step 1. Lesson 1.pdf