The Carbon Net Neutral Project aims to completely reduce the carbon footprint of my school, Kodaikanal International School, by the year 2030. It has many subgroups that all work towards the same goal, including the Rocket Stove Development Team, the Carbon Sequestration team, the Devices team and the Water Conservation team. I personally am part of the Rocket Stove Development Team.
1) How did this experience assist you in identifying your goals and developing areas of growth?
Being part of the Carbon Net Neutral project, particularly in the rocket stove development team, helped me see how I can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. Our aim to create a stove that emits almost zero smoke and generates more heat was a direct response to the health problems faced by villagers in Kodaikanal due to traditional smoke stoves. Through this project, I realised the importance of learning about pollution and finding ways to reduce it, which helped me define my goals towards increasing environmental advocacy and innovation.
2) What challenges did you have in this experience? Which skills did you develop?
One of the challenges we encountered was figuring out how to accurately measure the heat output of the stove and ensure its long-term efficiency. We addressed this by using handheld thermometers to monitor temperature differences across different parts of the stove and analyzing data through graphs and technology. This process helped me develop problem-solving skills and improved my ability to interpret and apply scientific data.
3) What did you learn by initiating your CAS experience/project that you can use again?
Initiating the rocket stove project taught me the value of teamwork and creativity in addressing complex issues. Working collaboratively with my team, we constructed the stove from scratch using scrap materials and supported each other's safety by ensuring everyone had appropriate protective gear. This experience taught me the importance of innovation and collaboration in finding sustainable solutions to global challenges.
4) How did you show commitment and perseverance? In what ways did you gain skills?
Our commitment and perseverance were evident when we encountered difficulties in lighting the stove efficiently. Despite initial setbacks, we persisted in experimenting with different materials and arrangements until we found a solution. This process not only strengthened our problem-solving abilities but also improved our practical skills in construction and experimentation.
5) In what ways did you gain skills of working collaboratively?
Working collaboratively on the rocket stove project allowed us to demonstrate our care for each other's well-being and success. For instance, if someone forgot to wear gloves while handling materials, another team member would provide them with a pair to ensure their safety. This experience enhanced our teamwork skills and emphasized the importance of supporting each other in achieving common goals.
6) Which issues of global significance are you engaged with in making decisions and taking actions?
Through the Carbon Net Neutral project and our focus on developing sustainable solutions like the rocket stove, I am actively engaged in addressing global issues such as climate change and air pollution. By advocating for environmentally friendly practices and innovations, I contribute to the effort in combating these pressing challenges on both local and global scales.
7) How are you recognizing and considering the ethics of choices and actions in this experience?
Initially, there were ethical considerations regarding the environmental impact of our experiments, particularly in relation to smoke emissions. However, as we refined the rocket stove design to minimize pollution, we prioritized ethical practices and sustainability. Moving forward, we should commit further to considering the ethical implications of our actions, ensuring that our initiatives promote environmental responsibility and well-being.