Two students from Presentation College in Headford, Galway have been awarded EirGrid’s Cleaner Climate Grand Award at the SciFest National Finals in Dublin.
Students Rory Maguire and Matthew Daly from Presentation College impressed judges with their exploration of the sustainability of local GAA clubs, which compared the carbon footprints of GAA clubs in their area at the SciFest National Final in Marino Conference Centre Dublin.
Their journey to the national stage began with triumph at the regional finals in ATU Galway earlier this year. Competing against a talented group of 62 students from schools across the country at the national finals, the project presented an analysis of the challenges and actions taken by GAA clubs in their local area to become more sustainable. Highlighting immediate and long-term benefits for the environment and local communities.
Currently in its 19th year, the SciFest national competition brings together some of the brightest young minds in Ireland. The SciFest programme is open to second-level students, with the aim of promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths ) education and providing a platform for students to present and display their scientific projects.
EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, partnered with SciFest to develop the EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award which celebrates second level students who research and design projects to address challenges posed by climate or energy focused issues.
Presenting the award to Matthew and Rory, EirGrid’s Dr Noelle Ameijenda congratulated them on their research.
“I was delighted to judge the SciFest National Final and see all the projects on show. The EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award aims to raise awareness of the need for climate action in our young people and foster the critical skills that will be required to support the transition to a cleaner energy future.
“It is heartening to see the genuine interest and innovative ideas students have around renewable energy and the environment. Congratulations to Rory and Matthew on this fantastic achievement.”
