Local pupils represent Connaught in science finals

TWO pupils from Kinaffe National School, Swinford, are among the country's top science brains.

From an entry of 5,500 children nationwide, Abby Sweeney and Ciara Keane, sixth class, were chosen to represent Connaught in the Intel mini scientist finals in Kildare.

Their project was titled 'Biodegradable plastic: Is it the best option?' They investigated how long it takes for biodegradable plastic to biodegrade, whether it has a negative impact on the environment, and they also explored the cost of biodegradable products versus non biodegradable products.

Their investigations included making an indoor composter and monitoring and observing materials biodegrading. They also monitored the pH levels of the surrounding soil in their composter to prove their hypothesis that biodegradable plastic does not alter the pH levels of the composter when breaking down and so does not harm the environment.

Abby and Ciara designed surveys to find out what people in their local community knew about biodegradable plastic. They visited SuperValu in Kiltimagh to do some research and also interviewed staff at Mayo County Council.

This experiment is ongoing as all materials have not fully biodegraded yet - but the results are looking positive. The girls plan on taking action to promote biodegradable products if their end results remain as positive as they are now.

Ms. Ciara O'Shea, vice-principal, Swinford Secondary School, acted as a judge for Intel and was very impressed by the girls’ project.