Fact-based education—the best response to misinformation
The goal of the contest was to promote accurate knowledge about renewable energy sources and to develop critical thinking skills among children and young people. Participants took on the challenge of distinguishing facts from myths regarding renewable energy, particularly wind farms and solar power systems.
The initiative was a natural continuation of educational efforts aimed at debunking the most commonly repeated Myths About Renewable Energy. As scientific data show, many concerns about renewable energy sources are not supported by the facts today, and perpetuating these concerns may slow down the energy transition.
Justyna Biernacka emphasizes:
„The energy transition is the great challenge of our time. Misinformation prevents us from making rational decisions that would be good for the development of our societies. That is why it is very important that we teach young people how to distinguish facts from myths.”
On the other hand, Artur Gazda reminds us that:
„The scientific data leave no room for doubt: the sustainable development of renewable energy sources is not only possible, but already represents the most economically and environmentally beneficial energy path. Every year of delay results in real losses. Debunking myths is the first step toward faster decisions.”
Creativity, knowledge, and family involvement
Interest in the contest exceeded the organizers’ expectations. Over 150 entries were submitted for the first edition, created by students and their families. The youngest participants created comics and collages, while older groups produced short educational videos presenting facts about renewable energy sources.
The submitted projects demonstrated that a discussion about the future of energy can be substantive, creative, and engaging for entire families. The entries showcased not only knowledge and thoroughness, but also talent, ingenuity, and the ability to critically analyze information.
A Gala Full of Inspiration
The awards ceremony took place on June 16 at the Żuromin Cultural Center and brought together the winners, school representatives, organizers, and project partners. The event served not only as an opportunity to present the awards but also to highlight the importance of environmental education and fostering an informed approach to renewable energy sources from an early age.
During the awards ceremony, participants were recognized in three age categories, and the most active school in the competition was also honored. This title was awarded to Stefan Żeromski Elementary School No. 1 in Żuromin, which submitted the largest number of entries.
Thank you for helping us build our knowledge together
As a content partner for the competition, we are pleased to have helped create an initiative that demonstrates how to effectively engage young people and their families in a conversation about the future of energy. Together with Polenergia and the Ogarnij Foundation Through our engineering efforts, we have demonstrated that fact-based education can be valuable, inspiring, and engaging for even the youngest audiences.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, their families, teachers, and school administrators for their commitment, creativity, and openness to discussing the future of energy. The submissions showed that young people are not only able to distinguish facts from myths, but also to inspire others to seek knowledge and think responsibly about the future.
We would also like to thank our experts— Justyna Biernacka and To Artur Gaźda – for providing substantive support for the project and consistently promoting education based on reliable knowledge.
See more
Article on Polenergia's ESG website: The awards gala for the winners of the first edition of Polenergia’s “Family Academy of Facts About Renewable Energy” competition has come to a close.
A video on YouTube summarizing the event: Summary of the Family Academy on Renewable Energy in Żuromin
Article on MATERIALITY: 5 myths about sustainable RES development
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