G24 Innovations (G24i), the global leader in the recycling of light to electricity, has developed a new on site learning centre with the support of Cardiff Council.
Thanks to a grant from Cardiff Council, Wentloog-based G24i was able to develop unused space to establish a classroom facility on its manufacturing site where primary, secondary, college and university students can learn about sustainability from technology experts.
As the first company in the world to manufacture green technology entirely from an onsite green energy source thanks to a 2.3 MW turbine on site, G24i is perfectly placed to teach youngsters about sustainable technology. Visiting students have the opportunity to view the manufacturing site, the wind turbine, electric cars and the company’s on-site allotment. Workshops are also available on a range of subjects including power generation and energy use, transport and how technology may impact future electronic product design.
Cardiff Council contributed to the funding of classroom project as part of its commitment to sustainability and education.
David Pugh, G24i’s test manager, who also heads up the learning centre said: “As a company, sustainability is at the very heart of everything that we do. We believe that it is vital that pupils learn about the importance of sustainable development as early as possible so that they can factor it into the way that they live.
“Having the education centre means that we are able to bring students to our site to show them what we do and how we use renewable energy. We also show how the product that we make can be used to change how consumer products are designed and how people access power. It is really rewarding to see the way that the children respond to what we do – hopefully we’re talking to some of the sustainability engineers and scientists of the future.”
Cllr Margaret Jones, Executive Member for Environment at Cardiff Council said, “I am very pleased that the Council is working in partnership with G24i to deliver this exciting classroom project. The Learning Centre will be an important learning resource for students of all ages, where they can learn more about the environment, renewable energy and sustainability.
“As a Council we are committed to the development of renewable energy sources and cutting carbon emissions, and by educating young people about sustainability we are hopefully encouraging them to recognise and understand the importance of working towards a greener future.”
Since the centre opened, a number of groups have taken advantage of G24i’s environmental education offerings. Among them was a GCSE geography group from nearby Willows High School who watched from their classroom as the 120m turbine was erected.
Andy Cole, Head of Geography at Willows High School, said, “While I can tell our pupils about renewable energy and how it works, the fact that they are able to come and see it for themselves makes the lesson so much stronger. I hope to bring my classes back to G24i regularly in the future.”
The learning centre is available for bookings seven days a week and G24i employs staff who are STEMNET Ambassadors and are able to run workshops for KS2, 3 4 and 5 pupils.