First popularized in the 1950s, science fairs provide students with a fun and creative way of completing large scale projects.This virtual competition, which will include entries from around the world, is open to all schools and students who have prepared a science project with an environmental theme, such as those found in environmental science and engineering. Following the scientific method, we expect student projects to first conceive of a question, construct, and test a hypothesis, and then present their data and final results. The project can be submitted in various creative formats, such as video, written, and visual reports.

	A few examples of green science fair topics Test which metals are toxic to an aquatic environment Investigate the effects of greenhouse gases and excess CO2 utilizing a model of the earth Conduct a chemical analysis of local rainwater Explore the effect of acidification and excess CO2 on water (oceans) Compare the emissions of a traditional vehicle to that of a hybrid Measure the amount of biomass energy (in the form of biogas) produced by different types of biomass Collect smog particles in your city and compare them to levels in other cities Find out what metal compounds exist in local soil Examine whether renewable fuels produce the same level of energy as non-renewable fuel Create a self-sustaining biosphere (or terrarium) from a large jar or box and study it Build a vehicle powered by photovoltaic (solar) cells Explore how a rooftop garden or green space allows a building to absorb less heat than traditional roofs Investigate how plants can be used to remove air pollutants Explore how algae can remove water pollutants

One of the important components in choosing a successful topic for a science project is to select one that is of personal interest, and then to prepare a testable question.

Awarding the prize

We will be recognizing students for finishing in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. In addition to honoring students individually, the winning student’s school will be awarded a wind generator kit. This educational prize can be used in a variety of ways and enables students to learn firsthand about alternative energy sources.

The winner will be chosen by a selection committee. The committee’s evaluation will be based on the following criteria: originality, complexity, organization; how well the project succeeded in answering the original question.

For more information please contact greensciencefair@fourgreensteps.com