W5, Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre, welcomed students in Years 12 to 14 from across the region for a special event exploring the future of sustainability, bringing together industry experts, innovative environmental solutions, and emerging career opportunities as part of its Science and Discovery Month programme.
Designed to inspire the next generation of environmental innovators and leaders, the event gave students aged 16 to 18 the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from industry, government, and the sustainability sector, gaining valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping a more sustainable future.
Through a combination of expert discussions and networking opportunities, attendees explored how Northern Ireland-based organisations are responding to environmental and social challenges and translating sustainability commitments into meaningful action.
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The event was officially opened by Andrew Muir MLA, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, who encouraged students to deepen their understanding of sustainability challenges, recognise the opportunities presented by the transition to a greener economy, and use their voices to help shape Northern Ireland’s future.
Judith Harvey, Group Head of Learning and Engagement at The Odyssey Trust, said: “With sustainability increasingly influencing how organisations operate, it’s important that young people have opportunities to learn about the challenges ahead and the role they can play in addressing them. This event offered valuable insight into how organisations across Northern Ireland are putting sustainability into practice.
“As W5 celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, we remain committed to creating opportunities for young people to learn directly from industry experts. We’re grateful to Minister Muir and all our guest speakers for sharing their knowledge and experiences, and helping students better understand the future of sustainability and the opportunities it presents.”
Following the Minister’s opening address, students participated in a 60-minute question-and-answer session with a panel of industry experts, including Nichola Hughes, Director of Sustainable Northern Ireland, as well as representatives from Northern Ireland Electricity Networks, Mash Direct, Translink NI, Northern Ireland Water, VYTA, and Farrans Construction. The discussion offered students first-hand insight into the evolving sustainability landscape, highlighting the role of innovation, collaboration, and responsible decision-making in addressing environmental and social challenges.
Beyond the panel discussion, thirteen companies showcased their commitment to sustainability, offering students a closer look at the practices, solutions, and initiatives already making a positive difference across Northern Ireland. Through direct engagement with participating organisations, students discovered how sustainability principles are being applied in practice and gained a broader understanding of the different approaches being taken to tackle environmental and social challenges.
Nichola Hughes, Director of Sustainable Northern Ireland, commented: “The W5 sustainability event never disappoints. Seeing pupils hold businesses to account on sustainability and hearing how local industry is leading the way to a low-carbon future was truly inspiring.”
A dedicated networking session further strengthened the experience, giving students the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, ask questions, and explore potential career pathways within the growing sustainability sector. From environmental management and renewable energy to sustainable business practices and emerging green technologies, the event highlighted the breadth of opportunities available to young people, encouraging them to consider how their individual interests, skills, and ambitions could contribute to a more sustainable future.
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Polina Shcherbakova, a Student at Rockport College, added: “I enjoyed the event, particularly hearing about possible career paths in local industry. It was good to hear from service providers, such as Translink NI and Northern Ireland Water, as I use these services every day.
“I learned from the responses of companies like Mash Direct about how, as a family business, they approach sustainable practice and reduce waste in their packaging. VYTA is an interesting company that I did not know much about, and it is good that they are repurposing so much technology to reduce landfill.”
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