LightNET project: Empowering catalan schools in the fight against climate change

by Àlex Argemí

ICN2's LightNET program, supported by the FCRi and the Catalan Department of Education, introduces a citizen science project to test a novel carbon-capture technology to 164 schools across Catalonia. This project, occurring during Science Week 2023, not only educates students about innovative solutions to climate change but also actively involves them in data collection and analysis. Under the guidance of Dr Amador Pérez and Àlex Argemí, the project exemplifies an integrative approach to addressing environmental challenges through education and citizen science.

ICN2, in collaboration with the Fundació Catalana per a la Recerca I la Innovació (FCRi) and the Department of Education of the Generalitat de Catalunya, proudly announces the LightNET Program, a cornerstone of Science Week 2023. This educational endeavor aims to confront the escalating challenge of climate change by introducing a pioneering carbon-capture technology in Catalan schools and a deep discussion about the multifaced strategies we need to put together to fight climate change.

LightNET, a material designed to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, has been distributed to 164 schools throughout Catalonia. Secondary and high school students, guided by their teachers, are actively participating in experiments to understand this material's potential under various conditions. Their data will contribute to a comprehensive analysis, offering insights into the effectiveness of LightNET in real-world applications.

Dr Amador Pérez, Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at the ICN2 Advanced Electronic Materials and Devices Group, leads the scientific aspect of this initiative, while Àlex Argemí from the ICN2's Department of Marketing, Communication, and Fundraising coordinates the project. The involvement of the FCRi and the Department of Education has been instrumental in extending the reach of this initiative, ensuring participation from a diverse range of schools, including those in rural areas.

The LightNET project embodies a holistic approach to tackling climate change. As the educational document of LightNET elucidates, addressing global warming requires a multipronged strategy. Reducing CO2 emissions, although vital, is just one facet of the solution. Actively removing CO2 from the atmosphere, a process known as 'carbon capture,' is equally crucial. This project not only educates the younger generation about these urgent environmental issues but also empowers them to be part of the solution.

ICN2's educational program, including LightNET and NanoEduca, integrates education and citizen science, making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for students. This approach reflects our commitment to fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens and scientists.

The response from over 6,000 students currently engaged with LightNET has been overwhelmingly positive. Their enthusiasm and innovative ideas are driving us to develop even more ambitious and impactful educational activities.
For more information about the LightNET project and its role in addressing climate change, please visit ICN2's LightNET page.

We are committed to keeping the community updated on the outcomes of this project, which stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in facing global environmental challenges.