Ferndown Rotarians launch young environmentalist contest

15th February 2013

Budding young environmentalists are being urged to enter a competition aimed at raising awareness of green issues.

The Young Environmentalist Challenge Competition is the brainchild of the Rotary Club of Ferndown.

Representatives from several schools joined Rotarians and sponsors for the launch held at Sembcorp Bournemouth Water's Longham Reservoirs.

Organiser Gerry Clarke said: "It's important to engage young people and make them aware of environmental issues.

"This is a pilot project but, if successful, could become an annual competition."

Three age categories have been set for the contest which is sponsored by Sembcorp Bournemouth Water and Parley-based Eco Sustainable Solutions.

The winners will receive Kindle Fire mini tablets with other prizes for the runners-up. The overall winner will also receive a fully paid trip to Dublin. 

In the four to nine and nine to 13 age categories, entrants have to produce a sketch and site plan for a sustainable wildlife garden. The nine to 13 year olds also have to complete a general environmental questionnaire.

The 13 to 18 year olds have to complete one of three tasks: 

• Highlight a major environmental issue in Dorset, describe the problems associated with it and suggest solutions.
• Write a short speech and make a five minute Powerpoint presentation on an environmental issue for delivery at the next Earth Summit.
• Create a sketch and site plan for a small sustainable wildlife garden. 

In addition, all entrants in the 13 to 18 age category must complete an environmental questionnaire.

The competition is open to schools in Ferndown and surrounding area. The closing date is April 22 and the results will be announced at an awards ceremony on June 15.

Mr Clarke said: "The Rotary Club of Ferndown is twinned with Dublin North Rotary Club which is also holding a similar competition.

"We're very grateful to our sponsors, especially Sembcorp Bournemouth Water's design agency Get Set which designed and produced the posters and entry forms."