Bringing STEM to Life Through Sustainability Projects
How science, technology, and critical thinking power real-world impact
The Sustainability Project Competition (SPC) doesn’t just focus on environmental awareness — it integrates STEM principles to help students apply classroom knowledge to real-world sustainability challenges. Through research, data analysis, hypothesis testing, and problem-solving, students gain practical experience in how science and innovation can directly serve their communities.
This hands-on approach not only strengthens students’ academic skills, but also helps them discover how STEM can be used as a powerful tool for environmental and social change.
Meet Isaac Ng
Former Presidio Education® College Intern, Sustainability Data Analytics
Isaac Ng served as a Sustainability Data Analytics Intern at Presidio Education® in 2018. At the time, he was pursuing a degree in physics at a university in Hong Kong, where he explored complex topics like quantum mechanics and theoretical physics.
During his internship, Isaac played a key role in supporting student participants in our Sustainability Project Competition (SPC) by guiding them through data analysis, hypothesis development, and research methodology.
He encouraged students to approach complex problems with curiosity and resilience, often reminding them that mistakes are essential stepping stones in the learning process.
The Sustainability Project Competition (SPC) challenges high school students to create a practical solution to a sustainability problem in their respective communities. The SPC project requires participants to apply Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to develop innovative ideas into realistic solutions. Science is required to understand the underlying cause of a sustainability problem. Engineering and technology are useful to create a suitable solution for the given problem. Mathematics serve as the basis of the other STEM components to ensure precise calculations. The SPC is an opportunity for high school students to train their critical thinking skills and encourage teamwork.
A simple brainstorming example of mind mapping. Illustration by Isaac Ng, Data Analytics (College Intern), 2018.
Recording and documenting experimental procedures and results are vital for precise research. Illustration by Isaac Ng, Data Analytics (College Intern), 2018.
Getting Started with Your SPC Project
Brainstorming Meaningful Ideas
Before beginning your Sustainability Project Competition (SPC) research, high school students should carefully review the list of approved sustainability subject categories. Choosing a topic that aligns with your interests or experiences will make the research process more meaningful and manageable.
Start by identifying real-world environmental or public health challenges within your local community. The best ideas often come from problems you've observed firsthand or feel personally connected to.
When researching, avoid using Wikipedia or general news sites as primary sources. While they may be good for initial background, they can lack credibility. Instead, gather accurate, peer-reviewed information from trusted sources like Google Scholar, academic journals, or your local library.
Be sure to record all sources using the correct citation format. Keeping detailed, properly formatted references throughout your project is essential for credibility and academic integrity.
Developing and Testing Your Hypothesis
From Hypothesis to Hands-On Testing
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or solution based on your background research. To be valid for your Sustainability Project Competition (SPC), your hypothesis must be testable through an experiment, model, or simulation.
A useful way to check if your hypothesis is feasible is to imagine presenting it as a proposal to a government agency or a global organization—would it stand up to real-world scrutiny?
Students should design an experiment, prototype, or model that directly tests their hypothesis. Once the testing is complete, carefully analyze and document the results.
If your findings do not support the original hypothesis, don’t worry—that's part of the scientific process. Revise your hypothesis and retest until the data supports your conclusion. This iterative process is how real-world solutions are developed.
Finalizing Your SPC Project
Crafting the Conclusion, Video, and Research Paper
After completing your experiment or simulation, it's time to draw conclusions and begin producing your final project materials: the sustainability video and the research paper.
Throughout your research process, keep detailed notes on your data, methodology, and results. These will form the foundation for both your paper and video.
Your research paper must include: 1) A clear conclusion based on your findings; 2) In-text citations to support your statements; and 3) A properly formatted reference list at the end
The accompanying video should closely mirror the content of your paper. Aim for clear, engaging narration, and if possible, record footage in real-time to highlight the sustainability issue in your community. This personalizes your project and enhances its impact.
Remember, academic integrity is essential. All sources must be cited, and all work must reflect your own effort and understanding.