Cork students compete for Unesco eco-awards

The Munster semi-finals of the ECO-Unesco Young Environmentalist Awards took place last week, with young people taking part in the two-day event at the Old Cork Waterworks Experience on Lee Road.

The ECO-Unesco Young Environmentalist Awards is an all-Ireland programme that recognises the work of young people who have taken environmental action in their school or community and come up with creative solutions to solve environmental issues.

Students across Cork entered with projects that focus on a range of topical issues, such as climate change, biodiversity, and community development.

St Mary’s Secondary School in Macroom, Kinsale Community School, St Mary’s High School in Midleton, Coláiste An Chroí Naofa in Carrignavar, Millstreet Community School, Coláiste Treasa in Kanturk, The Patrician Academy in Mallow, Glanmire Community College, Ardscoil Uí Urmoltaigh in Bandon, and Gaelcholáiste Mhuire AG in Cork City were all represented at the awards.

Speaking from the semi-finals, ECO-Unesco national director Elaine Nevin said: “The ECO-Dens and Young Environmentalist Awards are some of the most exciting events in the ECO-Unesco calendar. It is great to continue this year’s provincial semi-finals at the Old Cork Waterworks Experience again.

“The passion and problem-solving initiative of these young people’s projects offers great hope for the fight against climate change and reminds us that we can all play our part, from a community to a national level.”

Ms Nevin added: “This year, we have over 500 young people representing 78 groups across 26 counties, including Cork, with projects addressing key problems like climate change, biodiversity, and waste.

“With such a high standard of entries, it certainly won’t be an easy decision for our judges.

“We are excited to see who makes the final, and look forward to crowning winners across 30 junior and senior level categories in May.

“Regardless, the real winner is the future of climate activism, in the safe hands of these incredibly bright young people.”

ECO-Unesco is an environmental education youth organisation working to conserve the environment and empower young people.

Working with more than 15,000 young people last year, ECO-Unesco provides a wide range of programmes and services, including environmental workshops; environmental youth programmes; training programmes; education resources; and environmental youth work aimed at young people, leaders and teachers; as well as consultancy services.