The full dataset and research paper pf the SLE “Clear the Air: A Student-Led Climate Action Project” are available on Zenodo 

This SLE empowered 11- and 12-year-old students at St. Ignatius College, Prof. Edward de Bono Ħandaq Middle School in Malta, to become active agents of environmental change. Using low-cost air quality monitors, students measured real-time pollution levels in their local area, linking their observations to broader climate challenges.

Through hands-on experiments, gamified activities, and collaboration with the local community, the students involved in this SLE developed scientific knowledge and a strong sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment. They identified a clear connection between traffic levels and increased air pollution, especially in terms of particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Motivated by their findings, students applied the Six Thinking Hats and SCAMPER models to propose practical solutions to the Ħal Qormi local council. These included optimising school transport systems, encouraging drivers to switch off engines when idle, and establishing traffic restrictions near the school whenever possible. They also proposed promoting active travel such as cycling and walking to school, if the required infrastructure such as safe sidewalks, traffic lights and bike lanes are put into place. They also suggested the introduction of electric public transport (such as electric buses) for students, teachers, and workers in nearby industrial zones to reduce private car congestion.

The project highlights the power of student-led, data-driven initiatives to raise awareness and inspire action on climate change at the community level. At the end of the project, the students and their teacher presented their findings during a research symposium.

Read more on the Citizens Science, an online platform.