2 days Ago By Niall Kitson
16 September 2024 SciFest STEM winner 2023, Jack Shannon won the International Swiss Talent Forum Award at the EU Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) 2024 in Katowice, Poland. Shannon represented Ireland at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles in May and was one of two students from the 1,700 participants to win a place at EUCYS 2024. As well as winning the EUCYS award Shannon also won first place in his category at ISEF.
This latest accolade will see Shannon attend the International Swiss Talent Forum in Switzerland next February. Approximately 150 students from almost 40 countries took part in EUCYS 2024 which was organised by the European Commission with the University of Silesia, Katowice, in cooperation with the Polish Children’s Fund. Shannon’s project, Ireland’s Carbon Sinks – Remote sensing for monitoring peatland restoration used remote sensing techniques for monitoring peatland restoration in Ireland.
Both Clara bog and Keelbanada bog, were investigated to assess the effectiveness of multispectral, LiDAR, SAR, and InSAR analyses in tracking restoration progress and degradation. These methodologies supply regular and precise data on restoration progress and degradation areas, enhancing restoration planning and management. The project underscored the potential of remote sensing techniques for monitoring peatland restoration or degradation at multiple scales, contributing to Ireland’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Climate and Energy Framework by facilitating comprehensive assessments of progress towards restoration and carbon sequestration targets.
“I’m incredibly honoured to have had the opportunity to compete at the EU Contest for Young Scientists 2024,” said Shannon. “Participating alongside such talented young scientists from Europe and around the world has been a truly inspiring experience. My project focuses on Ireland’s peatlands, which are vital carbon sinks in the fight against climate change.
I believe that remote sensing can play a crucial role in restoring these ecosystems, and I hope that my research will contribute to Ireland’s climate goals. It has been an unforgettable journey, from winning at SciFest and ISEF to now being recognised at EUCYS. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from SciFest and all those who have encouraged my passion for science.
” Sheila Porter, SciFest founder and CEO added: “We are immensely proud to see Jack excel on such an international stage. His success reflects the core values of SciFest, making STEM accessible to all students and encouraging them to pursue their curiosity and passion. It’s truly inspiring to see young people like Jack lead the way in shaping a better future for us all.
” SciFest is supported by Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and the Dept of Education. TechCentral Reporters Read More: Awards Science SciFest.
