Waterman Talkabout – “Where There’s Muck, There’s Money”

WOW Talkabout on Pollution

Theme: Pollution, conservation, and how human choices affect water and wildlife.
Key question: What happens when we treat the environment as something to waste and not to protect?

In this WOW Talkabout, pupils explore how pollution travels – from homes and factories to rivers and the sea then straight into the sea creatures and the World food chain. Using strong, sensory imagery, we help children understand the real impact of pollution on living things and why care for water means care for all life.

Imagine a sea bird coated in oil after a spill – unable to breathe, fly, or feed. Unlike an actor washing off makeup, wild animals have no rescue crews or dry cleaners waiting to help. For most, pollution means pain, hunger, and death.

But this Talkabout isn’t about despair – it’s about awareness and action. Pupils will be encouraged to:

• Ask why pollution still happens, even though we know it harms.

• Identify simple habits that prevent waste and protect water.

• Debate how the media, business, and individuals can all make better choices.

• Recognise that looking after water is everyone’s job – and that profits should never come before the planet.

Linking empathy with enquiry, the session invites pupils to question the saying, “Where there’s muck, there’s money.” Is it true? Or can we create a world where clean water brings real wealth – in health, biodiversity, and happiness?

Curriculum links:

• Science: Living things and their habitats; materials and changes.

• Geography: Human impact on the environment; local and global water systems.

• English: Discussion, persuasive speaking and writing.

• PSHE/Citizenship: Responsibility, sustainability, and ethical decision-making.

Next steps: Encourage your class to keep noticing and reporting pollution near school, create posters about clean water, or explore how recycling and green innovation can turn “muck” into environmental solutions.

For resources or to plan a Talkabout at your school, contact World of Water.

Related: 

2000 years of River Protection & River Pollution

The Silent Poisoning of our Waters

Impact of Crude Oil (Pollution)

WOW Guide to Protecting Water

Water Pollution – Natural Hazzards