Immingham’s Student Green Team Wins Top Sustainability Prize!

Congratulations are in order for a group of students from Oasis Academy Immingham, as they were recently awarded one of the four prestigious prizes for ‘Teamwork and Project Idea’ at the Phillips 66 Waterline Student Sustainability Challenge 2024, for their innovative sustainability project.

Year 11 students Charlotte, Ben, and Harry from Oasis Academy Immingham, alongside their teacher Mr. Burton, designed a machine to reduce methane emissions by turning food waste from the academy canteen into fertiliser. Their project, which aims to reduce food waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainability within the academy, impressed judges and business owners alike.

The team’s proposal involves using food waste from the academy’s canteen in a specially designed composter tank that accelerates the decomposition process. The compost created will be used to fertilise vegetables grown at the school, which are then supplied to the school kitchen, reducing the need for imported vegetables and further lowering carbon emissions. The project also tackles the issue of methane emissions, which are released when food waste breaks down in landfills, by preventing waste from reaching landfill altogether.

Principal Sara McLoughlin praised the students for their dedication and innovative approach. "We are incredibly proud of Charlotte, Ben, and Harry for their creativity and commitment to making a difference.

“Their project is a perfect example of the values we instil in our students – sustainability, teamwork, and innovation. They’ve not only developed a practical solution for our academy but have the potential to inspire other schools to adopt similar approaches to reduce their carbon footprint."

Susan Bailey, Internal Exclusions Manager at the academy and a key staff member supporting the project, also highlighted the students' leadership and the broader impact of their work. "This project is a fantastic demonstration of how young people can lead the way in tackling environmental challenges. The students’ hard work and the support from Mr. Burton have shown that practical, sustainable solutions can come from within our own community. It’s an honour to see them recognised for their efforts."

The students’ commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship has led their team to success at the Phillips 66 Water Summit. With plans to further develop their composting machine, the students hope to see their project implemented in schools across the country, contributing to a more sustainable future for all.