Students from Loreto Balbriggan were the overall winners of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) search for One Good Idea with their Tree of a Kind entry, which developed an education programme for primary school pupils about energy efficiency and climate change.

Transition year students Laura Hennelly McCarthy, Victoria Fitzsimons, Megan Freeman, Erika O'Neill, and Orla McMahon showcased their work among 10 competing schools chosen as finalists from around the country to exhibit at the prestigious national final in the Mansion House.

The One Good Idea project is organised by SEAI and supported by the Department of Energy's Better Energy programme and the Department of Environment. The aim of the project is to increase students' understanding of energy efficiency and climate change by encouraging them to take individual and collective responsibility for tackling these important issues and to highlight how one good idea can make a big difference to our pockets, our lives and our planet. Energy Minister, Pat Rabbitte, presented the winning students with fantastic prizes including €750 for their school and tablets for each team member.

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Minister Rabbitte said: "Energy efficiency and climate change are important issues and are some of the biggest challenges facing future generations. However, seeing the work, dedication and passion these students have shown in raising awareness of these important issues is extremely encouraging. Small changes can make a huge difference so it is exciting to see so many inspiring ideas here."

Dr Brian Motherway, CEO of SEAI said: "This is the 5th year of the One Good Idea project and every year the standard gets higher. It is really reassuring to see the creativity and enthusiasm that each school put into their projects. Ideas can change the world - all you need is one good idea and these students are making a big difference in their schools and communities by helping to raise awareness of energy and climate change issues in clever and innovative ways."

(CD/MH)