Transition Year Students Explore Sustainable Engineering

On Thursday, 25th September, our Transition Year Young Environmentalist class took part in an engaging and thought-provoking Engineering Sustainability Workshop. The workshop introduced students to the vital role sustainable engineering plays in shaping everyday life and building a greener future. 

Throughout the session, students discovered how innovative solutions can help tackle environmental challenges. One of the highlights was learning about the “robot trees” (CityTrees) recently installed in Cork city centre — moss-covered structures that filter air pollution, monitor air quality, and cleverly combine technology with nature to improve urban environments. 

The workshop was highly interactive and hands-on. Working in groups, students were challenged to design and build a sustainable bridge using recycled materials, putting their creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills into practice. These activities demonstrated how engineering can have a real-world impact and inspired students to think critically about sustainability in their own lives and communities. 

The day was both educational and inspiring, giving students a deeper appreciation for the power of engineering to shape a more sustainable future.