In this article, Jane Winter describes a pilot project that uses a simple and engaging science activity to raise children's science capital, as well as increasing understanding of the potential of science to combat world problems. "Potatoes to plastics" is a Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC) project, aimed at key stage 2 children (ages 7-11). This activity highlights how science can be used to develop solutions to real-world problems by using a waste product to make a valuable (and biodegradable) material.