Specific new projects underway for 2008 include:
1. 'Our World in 2050' climate change adaptation competition
A competition activity aimed at 12 -13 year old school pupils with the objectives of promoting the role that mechanical engineers play in adapting the world to climate change and inspiring young people to consider a career in our profession. The initiative is being developed in collaboration with Penair School, Truro, and designed to meet the requirements of the new national curriculum for Key Stage 3. These include the need to engage in cross-curricula activities based on topical themes currently challenging society and to bring work-relatedness to learners.
A pilot of the activity was recently undertaken at Penair involving all 240 Year 8 pupils and participants from Ove Arup & Partners, the Environment Agency and volunteer members fom Babcock Marine and QinetiQ. The pilot was observed by teachers from other schools and representatives from the local Education Business Partnership and Education Development Service, as well as the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust. Feedback from these sources will be used to evaluate the potential of the activity for further development into a national initiative. Please click here to watch a 2 minute news report about the pilot.
2. Adaptation of mechanical systems to near term climate change
An intellectual leadership activity aimed at UK government with the objectives of helping the nation prepare for the impacts of climate change and promoting the role of mechanical engineers in adaptation. The initiative involves working with the UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to shape the UK national resarch agenda for the EPSRC 'Adaptation and Resilience to a Changing Climate (ARCC) programme. In particular, the Institution is a key potential stakeholder in the areas of 'Transport Systems and Infrastructure' and 'Built Environment' and is actively seeking opportunities to help steer research and disseminate findings. Please click here for further information about the UK Climate Impacts Programme.
3. Alternative solutions to Global Warming
An intellectual leadership activity aimed at government with the objectives of stimulating debate on mitigation strategies other than those that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and setting the agenda for a technically sound discussion. The initiative is being developed with our Young Members and involves teams of young engineers undertaking feasibility studies of solutions based on concepts for global cooling and the provision of greenhouse gas sinks. The results of these activities will be used as a catalyst to debate.
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