Science4society week is a new collection of science education activities, designed to inspire young people. The project was set up to provide an alternative to activities funded by the arms and fossil fuel industries, such as ‘The Big Bang Fair’. Science4society week 2015 runs from 16th to 23rd March.

Media release, 6 March 2015
 

It is organised by Scientists for Global Responsibility, a UK membership organisation which promotes science, design and technology for peace, social justice and environmental sustainability.

This year’s activities include:

• Trips/tours. School children and university students will visit inspiring schemes, such as:
  • community-run renewable energy projects, including hydro, solar and biomass systems;
  • super-insulated eco-homes; and
  • innovative technology sharing schemes, such as cohousing and car clubs.

• Interactive lessons on science, technology and ethics. Children will take part in an exciting range of classroom activities, including:
  • planning renewable energy schemes for an island community;
  • building model wind turbines; and
  • debating technology justice and science ethics.

Activities are designed to integrate with the national curriculum. They will take place in North England, as this is where SGR is based. In future years, more activities will take place further afield.

Co-ordinator of Science4society week, Dr Jan Maskell said, “There are many inspiring examples of science and technology being used to support environmental sustainability, social justice and peace, but mainstream education events often fail to include them. We aim to fill this gap, and also provide a space for debating what the ethical role of science and technology should be in our society.”

Notes

1. More information about Science4society week can be found at: /projects/science4society-week

2. Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) is an independent membership organisation of about 900 natural and social scientists, engineers, IT professionals and architects. It was formed in 1992. SGR’s work is focused on several issues, including security and disarmament, climate change, sustainable energy, and who controls science and technology? For more information, see /

2. A summary of pilot activities in 2014 can be found at: /resources/children-learn-about-green-technologies-and-eco-living