Eco-friendly Phoebe wins top prize
An eco-conscious youngster has won a national environmental competition.
Phoebe Deakin, aged 12, from Halesowen, scooped the top spot with her poster to inspire schoolchildren to upcycle old food cans into animal-themed desk organisers.
Scientists from one of the leading suppliers of premium polymers, Covestro, in partnership with National Geographic Kids UK, handpicked Phoebe’s project for its creativity and practicality.
Commenting on her win, Phoebe said: “I had fun designing this poster to recycle tin cans.
"I love my art and stationery, and with these pen pots you can be eco-friendly to store them all away.”
The competition invited readers to learn about the circular economy, a sustainable system aimed at eliminating waste and reducing resource use and maintaining the value of products for as long as possible.
Entrants were tasked with coming up with an upcycling idea, then creating an inspiring ‘how-to’ poster to teach others how to do it.
Rachel Owen, head of corporate communications at Covestro, said: "Phoebe’s poster stood out because of the bold design and its accessibility – most people will be able to do this project with tools they already have at home and they could even repurpose other waste, such as scraps of paper to make the design.
"The result is a complete transformation – you’d never guess these desk organisers are made from old tins.
“At Covestro we believe it is important to involve all bright minds in our global efforts in advancing the circular economy.
"We therefore take great responsibility and privilege in helping to educate and inspire the upcoming generations on this pertinent subject.”
Prize-winner Phoebe won £250 in vouchers for The Entertainer toy and games shop for her creation.
