L-R: John Tobin, Ashling Magner, Cian Fogerty, Jennifer Coyne, Shane Tierney and Emma Kirwan from Tullamore College with their project 'Rhythm in Rubbish' at the national final of Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) One Good Idea project.Pic:Maxwells

Tullamore College team named junior winner at SEAI "One Good Idea" final

A team from Tullamore College has been named junior winners of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) search for “One Good Idea” with their project “Rhythm in Rubbish”, which demonstrated that energy can be saved by making musical instruments out of recycled items found in the home, school and local businesses.

Third year Tullamore College students Finian Carton, John Tobin, Ashling Magner and Billie Daly showcased their work as part of ten competing schools chosen as finalists from around the country at the national final on Tuesday, April 30, in the Mansion House in Dublin.

The One Good Idea project is organised by SEAI and supported by the Department of Energy’s Better Energy programme and the Department of Environment. The aim of the project 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 and to highlight how one good idea can make a big difference to our pockets, our lives and our planet.

Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte presented the winning students with prizes including €500 for their school and an ipod for each team member.

“Energy efficiency and climate change are important issues and are some of the biggest challenges facing future generations,” Minister Rabbitte said. “However, seeing the work, dedication and passion these students have shown in raising awareness of these important issues is extremely encouraging. Small changes can make a huge difference so it is exciting to see so many inspiring ideas here today.”

CEO of SEAI Brian Motherway said this year - the fifth year of the “One Good Idea” project - has brought with it even higher competition standards. “It is really reassuring to see the creativity and enthusiasm that each school put into their projects,” he said. “Ideas can change the world - all you need is one good idea and these students are making a big difference in their schools and communities by helping to raise awareness of energy and climate change issues in clever and innovative ways.”

The overall award for the campaign went to Loreto Balbriggan for their project “Tree of a Kind”. The senior award went to St Aloysuis College in Cork for their project “Change Your Atti Food”.