Inspiring climate action in schools
Article by Hope Flynn, DYW Brand Manager
Architectural firm O’DonnellBrown has been working with Abercorn Secondary School as part of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and DYW Glasgow My Climate Path Climate Hero programme.
Climate Heroes are industry partners and passionate individuals who help influence and inspire our young people about the career pathways they can take to enter the emerging green economy. They are each partnered with a secondary school to inspire young people by demonstrating that all sectors of Scotland’s economy are needed to come together to support Scotland’s ambitious climate goals. Recently, the team at O’DonnellBrown collaborated with the school to convert a disused shipping container, using recycled and natural materials, into a climate hub for the pupils, creating a dedicated outdoor classroom space for climate change education.
The climate hub project is supported by the Itison Glasgow Pumpkin Fund, which was created in 2019 to support local charities following the success of the GlasGLOW annual light show event. Over the past six years it has spread pumpkin power as far as possible and generated £80,000, which has been donated to local charities, schools and community groups in need of financial assistance. As part of this exciting renovation, the team has also partnered with APK Scotland and Flux Laser and CNC Studio, which are laser-cutting the signage. The school has also received generous donations from IndiNature and MGM Timber for the hemp insulation and wood for the project. Over the past year, O’DonnellBrown has organised interactive workshops for pupils to engage in the preparation of their creative climate learning space.
I was kindly invited to a workshop led by local participatory designer Josafinni, who conducted sessions with the school pupils at Civic House at the beginning of the year to create artwork for the hub. It was wonderful to see the pupils enjoying themselves – collaborating, showcasing their creativity and demonstrating their capabilities. At the end of the session, they unveiled some interior design ideas. One pupil even presented me with the drawing that she created during the workshop!
Michael Dougal, Architect/Director at O’DonnellBrown, explains: “The climate hub has provided Abercorn Secondary School with a dedicated space for pupils to engage with climate education. The project was realised through collaborative working and in-kind support, showcasing an inspiring example of circular design. O’DonnellBrown looks forward to continuing our role as Climate Heroes and delivering workshops with students in the climate hub very soon.” I am really excited to see how this project progresses and look forward to watching the pupils immerse themselves in their brand new climate change learning space. If any employers would like to learn more about the My Climate Path project and help inspire young people on career pathways into sustainable jobs, please get in touch with us on myclimatepath@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com
