The negative impact of paper tissues on water consumption and pollution is the theme of the winning entry in an annual Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) contest for young people.
Wong Cheuk Yin Cayden, a student at St Columba’s College in Dublin, combined digital animation with live action, scripting and voiceover to create his video for the EPA’s “ The Story of Your Stuff” competition.
He examined the effects of tissue manufacturing on water consumption, pollution through use of chlorine to make tissues white, habitat destruction and human health.
He calculated that the average person uses 5.2kg of tissues a year, involving more use of water than the average annual Irish consumption per person of same.
Yin Cayden’s video points viewers to more environmentally friendly alternatives, and concludes with a strong reminder to take small steps for a lasting positive impact.
He was awarded 500 euro for himself along with 500 euro for his school.
The use of wet wipes – also harmful to the marine environment – secured the Irish-language prize in the EPA contest for Ellie Ni Chonaill and Anna Ní Mhurchú from Gaelcholaiste Charraig Ui Leighin, Co Chorcaí .
The “climate topic” prize was awarded to Hari Pranavam, Kimi Alcantara, Conall O’Brien and Raeem Siddiqui from Saint Eunans College, Co. Donegal for their entry, entitled “The Story of Beef”.
Now in its sixth year, the EPA competition attracted over 200 entries from schools across the country, as well as the highest number of Irish language entries to date.
The competition encourages young students to realise the influence they can have on their friends and family when it comes to making environmentally responsible consumer choices, according to the EPA.
“With its focus on sustainability, waste management, climate action and environmental protection, the competition asks young people to think, talk and make small changes that can have far-reaching impacts,”the EPA says.
“We are once again heartened by the extent and depth of the response among students to this year’s ‘The Story of Your Stuff’ competition,” Dr Jonathan Derham of the EPA and chair of the judging panel said.
“ This reflects the sincere commitment of Ireland’s young people to encouraging behaviour change and driving climate action. Moreover, it highlights how our young people view environmental issues in a way that is creative, proactive and solutions oriented,” he said.
Holly Walshe from Loreto College Foxrock, Co Dublin won second prize for “The Story of Pens”.
Liam O'Sullivan, Thomas Shaughnessy, Michael Duggan and Lochlann Mechan from Portumna Community School, Co. Galway came third for their video, “The Story of Circuit Boards”.
All winning entries can be viewed here.
