RUST (Rubbish, Utilisation, Sorting Technology) from Coláiste Dun An Rí, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan to Represent Ireland at the SAGE Awards in Tokyo!

YSI Team RUST (Rubbish, Utilisation, Sorting Technology) at the YSI Awards 2024

We are thrilled to announce that the YSI Team RUST (Rubbish, Utilisation, Sorting Technology) from Coláiste Dun An Rí, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, has been selected to represent Young Social Innovators and Ireland at the prestigious SAGE (Students Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship) World Cup in Tokyo this coming August 2024.

This remarkable achievement highlights the team's dedication and innovative approach to tackling a critical environmental issue: improper recycling.

About the Team

The primary focus of Team RUST is on the widespread issue of people not recycling correctly when disposing of rubbish into public bins. This common oversight leads to significant environmental problems, as non-recyclable waste contaminates recyclable materials, reducing the efficiency of recycling processes.

Team RUST aims to make a long-term impact on environmental sustainability by developing a solution that minimises incorrectly recycled items in public bins. Their goal is to ensure that recyclable materials are properly sorted and processed, thereby reducing environmental pollution and enhancing recycling rates. Their innovative solution involves designing and constructing a smart bin equipped with machine learning technology. This advanced bin will automatically sort items placed into it, ensuring that recyclables and non-recyclables are properly separated.

Team RUST's project supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with a primary focus on Goal 13: Climate Action, by improving recycling processes and reducing environmental pollution, the project contributes to efforts aimed at combating climate change and its impacts.

About SAGE World Cup

SAGE (Students Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship) is a global program that empowers teenagers to develop entrepreneurial and innovative solutions addressing pressing global challenges. Each year, the SAGE World Cup brings together student teams from up to 20 countries, fostering international collaboration and competition. To date,  five Irish teams have been awarded the Gold Title, demonstrating Ireland's strong commitment to social innovation and entrepreneurship.

Looking Ahead to Tokyo

As the team prepares to showcase their groundbreaking project on the international stage in Tokyo, they bring not only their innovative spirit but also the hopes and support of their school, community, and country. Representing Ireland at SAGE World Cup is an incredible honour, and we are confident that Team RUST will inspire others with their vision, dedication, and ingenuity.

Stay tuned for updates on Team RUST's journey and join us in celebrating their remarkable achievement. Let's cheer them on as they strive to make a significant impact on global recycling practices and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

Congratulations, Team RUST, and best of luck in Tokyo!

YSI Team RUST (Rubbish, Utilization, Sorting Technology) at the YSI Awards 2024