2011 International Year of Chemistry = Global Outreach

So the other day I was walking up the creek in my backyard with my son and he asked me, "Dad how do we know if the creek water is clean?"

 

I answered, "Chemists test the water quality."

 

He then asked, "Can I help?"

 

To which I said, "Yes you can!"  I then talked to him about the International Year of Chemistry (IYC).

 

Next year, during IYC, there will be a global chemistry experiment performed by thousands of school children across the world - is the biggest chemical experiment ever conducted.  Students will participate in modules that examine the properties of their local water and explore how chemistry provides the world clean drinking water.  Results will be electronically showcased as an interactive global data map at the end of 2011, demonstrating the value of international cooperation in science.

 

Since IYC is right around the corner, I encourage you to begin planning your activities and stay up to date with the latest information on celebrating IYC : the ACS IYC 2011 Community Outreach web page includes an overview of ACS resources for outreach activities during 2011; ACS IYC 2011 Toolkits include a number of ideas, guidelines, and templates for your IYC celebrations; and ACS IYC 2011 Nano-Grants for ACS Local Sections have been launched to aid ACS Local Sections in financing elements of their IYC celebrations (the deadline is September 29th).  Subscribe to the IYC Bulletin to stay posted on IYC  activities.

 

IYC will be a perfect opportunity to share the passion we have for chemistry to the world.