Finding your way through today’s “green jungle” isn’t easy — especially for students who face intense marketing, loud slogans, and all kinds of “eco” claims on product packaging every day. The project “Small Choices – BIG Paths” helps develop critical thinking skills and teaches how to distinguish genuinely environmentally friendly choices from advertising tricks.

Teachers at the 48th National Biology Olympiad were introduced to the project idea, key directions, and expected outcomes on January 21, 2026, by the author of the project concept, Dr. Iluta Dauškane (PhD in Biology).

Why is such a project needed?

any products use “green” words and symbols, yet they are not always backed by real evidence or reliable standards. Therefore, the project focuses on:

• greenwashing and how to recognize it,

• understanding the concepts of “eco-label” and “social responsibility label,”

• moving from passive consumption to environmental health literacy — the ability to choose what is friendly both to people and to the environment.

Where do biology and art meet?

The project deliberately breaks down boundaries between school subjects: natural sciences/biology meet visual art and animation. Students not only learn facts, but also use them creatively by developing stories and visual materials that strengthen critical thinking.

How will it work in schools?

The project is built around a 4-lesson cycle — from researcher to storyteller:

• Research – exploring labels in real-life situations (in a shop, at home).

• Analyze – decoding symbols and identifying greenwashing.

• Create – developing one’s own design and story.

• Communicate – producing stop-motion animations to educate peers.

Expected results and materials for teachers

Within the project, the following will be developed:

• an educational animated film (~5 minutes),

• a digital kit with interactive tasks and methodological materials, freely available to all Latvian teachers.

Project timeline (2026)

• • January–March: development of methodology and digital tasks

  • April–June: implementation of the lesson cycle in schools

  • July–September: refinement of materials

  • October: completion and publication of materials

  Project implementation period: 01/01/2026–10/31/2026

Presentation (PDF)

Presentation in PDF format: [Download the presentation – PDF in Latvian].

Follow the updates! Together, we will build an environment where small choices lead to big, sustainable paths.