Ocean Health Challenge

The Ocean Health Challenge will return in 2025.

The UCL Ocean Health Challenge 2024 was a national engineering design competition aimed at inspiring young people to think creatively about tackling ocean plastic pollution. Open to students aged 11 to 18, the challenge invited participants to develop practical solutions to help prevent plastic waste from reaching the sea.

Led by Dr Fiona Truscott, Dr Helen Czerski, and Dr Zoe Laughlin, the project brought together expertise in engineering, ocean science, and materials. Through a series of resources and videos, teaches guided their students through the engineering design process while learning about the causes and consequences of ocean plastic pollution.

Participants were asked to identify a specific source of plastic pollution, propose an intervention, and then create a demonstration prototype of their idea. Entries were judged on sustainability, original, and effectiveness with students encouraged to apply scientific knowledge, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking.

The response to the challenge was exceptional. Over 1,500 students engaged with the programme, and several hundred entries were submitted from schools across the UK. The standard of submissions was extremely high, with many students going beyond the brief by incorporating research, testing, and sustainable materials. A wide array of teachers engaged representing subjects such as Geography, Science, DT, Maths, and Citizenship.

Shortlisted entries were reviewed by a panel of engineers, scientists, and educators. Winning teams received prizes both for themselves and their schools. The top prize included £2,000 for the winning school and a £500 voucher for the student. The standard of entries was high with all age groups engaging well.

The challenge was not only a competition but also an educational experience. Teachers reported that the resources helped bring STEM subjects to life and that students gained valuable skills in teamwork, critical thinking, and design. The project supported curriculum goals in science, geography, and design & technology, while also building environmental awareness. Teachers indicated they will incorporate the materials into their future curriculum.

By linking engineering to a real-world problem, the Ocean Health Challenge showed students how science and innovation can drive positive change. The creativity and commitment shown by participants in 2024 was a testament to the talent and passion of the next generation.

Following the success of the 2024 competition, the Ocean Health Challenge will return in 2025, offering even more schools the opportunity to take part. Details of the next challenge will be announced soon.