Student-Led Study Tackles Carbon Footprint of Local Sports Clubs
Two Headford Presentation College students are making waves in the world of sustainable sports. Second-year students Rory Maguire and Matthew Daly have developed a project researching the carbon footprints of local GAA clubs, earning them a spot vying for a top prize at the 2023 SciFest National Finals.
Currently in Dublin for the awards ceremony, Rory and Matthew are excited about the opportunity to showcase their research on a national stage.
The duo’s inspiration for the project stemmed from a shared passion for both the environment and sports.
“We both play GAA and seeing the environmental impact of travel to matches and the amount of waste generated, we wanted to investigate how sports clubs positioned themselves in terms of sustainability," shared Rory. "We also thought it would be a good idea to see what could be done to reduce these footprints," added Matthew.
Matthew elaborated further, stating, "We contacted clubs throughout Galway to gather information about their travel habits and waste management practices. We explored various aspects, including transportation methods, training routines, and even the energy consumption of their clubhouses."
The team focused on quantifying the carbon emissions associated with each club’s activities. They diligently collected data on factors such as travel distances for away games, fuel consumption for team buses, and the energy usage of club facilities. Their meticulous research allowed them to develop a clear picture of the environmental impact associated with each club.
The findings were compelling, highlighting the significant carbon footprint of local GAA clubs.
While the team did not disclose specific details about their findings before the competition results, they emphasized the importance of raising awareness within the sporting community. They hope their research will inspire clubs to implement sustainable practices and promote a greener approach to sport.
The SciFest National Finals is a prestigious event showcasing the country’s top young scientists and innovators. The competition challenges students to tackle real-world issues through scientific methods.
Rory and Matthew’s project not only tackles a pressing environmental issue but also identifies practical solutions for reducing the carbon footprint of local sports clubs. Their research exemplifies the power of youth innovation and its potential to drive positive change within local communities.
Whether or not they take home a top prize, their project stands as a testament to their commitment to environmental sustainability and the potential of young minds to contribute to a greener future.
What kind of practical solutions did Rory and Matthew explore for reducing the environmental impact of GAA clubs?
## Local Students Tackle Green Goals in Sports with Innovative Project
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to our show. Today, we have two young men making a big impact on the world of sports and sustainability. Rory Maguire and Matthew Daly, congratulations on reaching the SciFest National Finals with your project!
**Rory:** Thank you! We’re thrilled to be here.
**Matthew:** It’s been an incredible experience so far.
**Interviewer:** Tell us about your project. It sounds quite innovative.
**Rory:** Well, we’re both passionate about Gaelic games and care deeply about protecting our environment. Seeing the impact of travel to matches and the waste generated by clubs, we wanted to investigate their carbon footprints and see what steps could be taken towards greater sustainability.
**Interviewer:** That’s inspiring! What specific actions did you take?
**Matthew:** We contacted local GAA clubs and collected data on their travel distances, energy consumption, and waste management practices. Based on that data, we calculated their carbon footprints. From there, we explored practical solutions clubs could implement to reduce their environmental impact.
**Interviewer:** Fascinating. What kind of solutions did you come across?
**Rory:** Things like using public transport or carpools for team travel, implementing recycling programs, switching to renewable energy sources for club facilities, and even reducing single-use plastics at events.
**Interviewer:** These are all tangible and achievable changes. What message do you hope to send with your project?
**Matthew:** We want to show GAA clubs, and sports organizations in general, that sustainability practices not only benefit the environment but can also contribute to a club’s positive image and community engagement.
**Interviewer:** Well, Rory and Matthew, your project is a testament to the power of young people to drive positive change. Thank you for sharing your story with us and best of luck at the SciFest finals!
**Rory & Matthew:** Thank you!