SEAI calls on Tipp school students to enter energy awareness competition

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has officially launched this year’s One Good Idea competition and is encouraging students from Tipperary to enter.

Now in its ninth year, the aim of the One Good Idea is to increase students’ understanding of energy efficiency and climate change by encouraging them to take individual and collective responsibility for tackling these important issues. Contestants must come up with creative ideas for an energy awareness campaign to change behaviour and improve energy efficiency in their homes, schools and communities. 

 

Open to primary and post primary school students, participants have the chance to win prizes for themselves and their schools.  Entry can be made via www.seai.ie/onegoodidea and the best projects will be showcased at the national finals in Croke Park on the 16th May 2017. Closing date for entries is 11th November 2016. 

Speaking about the competition, Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, said: “I believe a key element in the future of energy efficiency and awareness that will bring about behavioural and attitudinal change in our society lies with our school children.  I am convinced their creative ideas and enthusiasm will have a significant impact on attitudes and practices.  As the first Minister appointed by the Government with dedicated responsibility for climate change and energy policies I congratulate the SEAI on the One Good Idea initiative which encourages school children to learn about the important subject of energy efficiency and climate change.”

 

Commenting, Jim Gannon, CEO at SEAI, said: “I am very impressed at the passion, enthusiasm and creativity shown by last year’s participants in getting the message out about the challenge we all face in addressing climate change.  The competition raises awareness of climate change and the simple ways each of us can respond to it.  The students also benefit directly, building a whole range of skills that will serve them well both during and beyond school.”

 

Thanks to the continued support of AIB the project has grown substantially in the last few years.  Speaking about the partnership, Ray O’Neill, Head of Sustainable Business at AIB, said: “AIB is delighted to support this venture to encourage students to come up with smart ideas to change behaviour around energy awareness.  AIB is leading by example.  Our green strategy includes zero waste to landfill and 100 per cent renewable electricity targets.’’