The InCommOn’s annual school competition is carried out nationwide and encompasses all primary, middle and high schools.
From 2019, we have invited the next generation of young citizens, guided by their teachers, to find out about the effects of the linear economy (take-make-consume-dispose) that we all take part in, in our daily lives and discover the circular economy (recycle-repair-reuse-share-rot-return). Through these competitions, not only do young people learn about the value, necessity and principles of the circular economy, but they also have the opportunity to put these into practice by coming up with ideas and plans to apply these in their school environment.
In order to create a healthy and happy environment for everyone, young people should be able to discover, think freely and work on issues in tangible ways with interest and excitement.
The competition offers children the opportunity and space to work creatively on innovative ideas, which will stimulate their natural curiosity and allow them to utilise their intelligence in finding solutions to existing, local problems.
The aim of the competitions is to provide the tools and materials for pupils to come up with a circular economy plan that could be implemented in their schools. It is up to the students and the teachers who coordinate their projects, whether they present a theoretical plan or they put it into action by implementing it!
The criteria and deliverables of the competitions are designed as broadly as possible to encourage the student community to express and describe their ideas in a variety of ways and means, such as essays, posters, presentations, videos, songs or game-based activities that foster creativity, critical thinking and teamwork.
The specific objectives of the competitions are to:
-encourage research and discovery about the linear and circular economies, in a way that raise awareness and motivates students to act and to change their attitude and behaviour
– spark discussion and debates on the interrelationship of scientific disciplines and sectors– economic, social, environmental – with the aim of encouraging cooperation among young people from all fields of scholarship and experience, emphasising the value of a holistic approach
– disseminate of the idea of responsible consumption and management of natural resources in schools and local communities
– strengthen social cohesion
– support the development of students’ creative potential and the expression of their personality through this process
– cultivate critical thinking
– encourage the cooperation and teamwork
