Twelve environmental science students attended the Actions for Earth Global Youth Summit, a four-day conference to discuss sustainable solutions to better protect children, fresh water and the natural environment.

Hawkesdale P12 was awarded third place for its initiative OzTrees 4 GYS, which would  plant a tree for every student at the summit to offset their carbon emissions. 

Hawkesdale students donated their $500 prize money to a Cambodian school they believed was deserving of the funding.

Year 11 student James Gow said that he was tired after the whirlwind trip but had a great time.

“They were long days. You had to be at the conference at 7.30 and it would go until 9 at night,” James said. 

He said that it was an eye-opening experience and he loved being able to interact with students from around the world. 

“It was interesting to see what they had to say and how they thought differently to us.”

More than 350 delegates from 12 countries attended the summit. 

Students travelled around Singapore to learn how the country managed its waste and water resources. They also listened to lectures from environmentalists, researchers and educators.

Hawkesdale P12 environmental science teacher Britt Gow said she was proud of her students. 

“They were very long days and a lot was expected of them, but I’m very proud of all of them for rising to the challenge and representing their school and their nation in the best way possible,” she said.