It is a fact that we live in a diverse and dynamic world. It is also a fact that our planet is composed of about seventy one percent of water. However, the series of human activities on the planet continues to initiate adverse effect on the planet. About eight million tons of plastic end up in our oceans every year causing immense injuries and death for marine species.
Aside from the fact that plastic affects the oceans and marine species, plastic pollution threatens human health and also affects food quality and safety. Plastic waste ends up in landfills in oceans which take thousands of years to decay, marine species gets intoxicated by plastic chemicals released in water and the atmosphere hence fish becomes contaminated from chemicals in water, the toxins enter the food chain which threatens human health.
Plastic pollution is not restricted to oceans issues alone it also affects the climate. Plastic originate from Fossil fuels which emit greenhouse gases. Plastic is one of the largest and fastest growing contributors to emission. Plastic production has doubled in the past 20 years. Emission from plastic do not end after they are thrown away, plastic waste continue to release greenhouse gases which degrades the environment.
The mass plastic pollution found in the ocean is large in size that it is called the ‘’7th continent’’ If much attention is not given to this development , there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. Hence, plastic is gradually polluting and killing our planet.
In an effort to salvage the situation, British International Education Association launch the 2020 international STEM competition and conference for primary and secondary team in science and design within the range of 9- 21 years.The STEM competition is meant to Showcase what young people can achieve using STEM development and working as a team..
This competition themed Help us solve the global Plastic problem is initiated to raise up young champions across the country who will develop solution to clear plastic waste from waterways and save our shores from plastic pollution. This competition launch ceremony will take place on Wednesday 15th January 2020, at the Royal Institution, 21 Albemarle St, Mayfair, London W1S 4BSY at 4: 15 PM .
The STEM conference will host lot of media opportunities such as Interviews with teachers about why they have got involved in the competition and why they feel designing solutions to tackle plastic pollution from our shorelines is so important, Interviews with BIEA representatives about what brought about the International STEM Youth Innovation Competition initiative each year, Interviews with Thames21 representative about the importance of technology and how it is changing the world of conservation and discussion from educators and institutions on the status of science education in the UK and internationally.
As a young Secondary and Primary school students within this age range in Nigeria, You can still join the team of youth in developing solution to stop the tide of Plastic pollution on our waterways. Pre registration opens till 15th January 2020 Register here. There will be a BIEA STEM conference on Wednesday 15th January 2020 where the 2020 STEM competition topic will be announced. This competition is a nice opportunity for young people, Help build a sustainable future and make a difference with less plastic waste.
Recent Comments