Tullamore College students win Gold at Young Social Innovators Awards
Top prize for Transition Year students in prestigious national competition
Congratulations to Ryan Plunkett and Cillian Farrell, Transition Year students at Tullamore College, who took home the top prize at the prestigious Young Social Innovators (YSI) Awards at the Aviva Stadium.
The duo impressed judges with their innovative and sustainable project, “Grass Sheets”—a paper made from repurposed grass clippings. Their idea, born out of a desire to reduce deforestation, carbon emissions, and waste, involved collecting discarded grass from their local pitch and putt club with support from Offaly County Council. They demonstrated the versatility of their invention by producing paper bags, pouches for wildflower seeds, craft paper, and even a jacket made from their grass paper.
Ms Emma Bradley and Mr Ian Feighery praised the students’ creativity and commitment, noting how the project sparked immediate excitement when it was first pitched in a school corridor.
The students plan to explore further applications for their eco-friendly paper and to continue collaborating with local businesses to expand the project.
A huge well done to Ryan and Cillian on their well-deserved national recognition. Tullamore College is incredibly proud of your outstanding achievement.