Project X

Minox Technology has this fall conducted a teaching program for fifth-grade at Raumyr skole in Kongsberg. The project started under the name “Project X”, but the pupils were encouraged to rename it. It is now called “Operation CO2-capture”. The pupils have been challenged to invent and design solutions for CO₂-capture, and how to utilize and store it. “We have challenged the class to invent methods for CCS (carbon capture and storage) or invent a concept for removing plastic waste in rivers. We have discussed a lot around current existing technologies but have tried to avoid guiding the pupils in set directions”, says process engineer Ole Morten Isdahl.

“At Minox Technology we think it is great that younger people have a big commitment to climate and environmental challenges. Today, there is a great focus on the challenges with respect to the political aspect, but we are, in addition, dependent on technological development in order to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. By looking at the current challenges in the light of Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), we hope that their eagerness to change our behavior and commitment to fix our challenges also will inspire them and develop a passion for the STEM-subjects”

Minox Technology wants to make a positive impact on the local communities. In the long run, initiatives like this may benefit the local tech-industry by encouraging our youths to seek a career within science and technology.  Small projects like this is also rewarding and inspiring for the employees of Minox Technology. Through the course, the students have focused on the climate challenges from a technological perspective. They’ve been given a detailed introduction to the greenhouse effect, where and how greenhouse gases originate, the carbon cycle, Norway’s greenhouse gas emissions and the development of local emissions over time.

“The students’ effort has been truly amazing – it is clear that the subject is engaging! All groups have so far provided great drawings of ideas and inventions. One group even surprised us with a digital 3D model made in Minecraft. The Minecraft model comes in handy as the student’s ideas are now being materialized in the form of a physical 3D printed models which they will be given at the end of the project”.