The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), New Delhi conducted an enthusiastic renewable energy fair for schools, as part of its Green School’s Carnival 2023. It was held on February 21, 2023 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The exhibits showcased some brilliant ideas and innovative projects made by the students of schools, belonging to CSE’s Green Schools Programme. ‘The Big Idea,’ as the event was titled, was a massive success and attracted participation from a total of 16 schools of which seven were based in Delhi–NCR and nine in Himachal Pradesh. Each school displayed its model, working or static, through a team of two students, belonging to grade 6–12, and were led by a teacher.
Their projects ranged from simple experiments, exploring basic concepts of solar energy, to complex research projects, investigating some serious issues. Some popular demos were of an electric bike, a solar-based smart dustbin, and a urine-to-energy generating model. These demonstrations left our audience spellbound and highly impressed our judges. Their judgement criteria included various parameters, like the scientific accuracy of the project, the creativity and innovation of the idea, the quality of the presentation, and the clarity and conciseness of the students’ explanation.
The students explained their projects in detail, answering the visitor’s queries and spreading awareness about the role of renewable energy in mitigating climate change. The fair was a great opportunity for them to explore their interests in science, and develop their research and presentation skills. A lot of children, teachers, GSP members, and CSE partners who attended the fair left with a nuanced understanding of alternative energy. The fair inspired a lot of youngsters to create, innovate, and implement scientific solutions to make our future brighter, cleaner, and sustainable.
Deputy Programme Manager, Environment Education Unit, Centre for Science and Environment, New Delhi