A bioplastic made from potato starch and glycerin, natural dyes from plant waste, spinach leaves and beets that could be used in paints and inks. These future innovations are becoming realities for the top winners of the Universiada STEM education competition in Poland.
Supported by a PPG grant, students in the program are discovering science through research projects – and competition – to develop key skills such as teamwork and time management, as well as data and chemistry analysis.
Universiada is one of many education initiatives around the world supported by PPG and the PPG Foundation. In addition to community sustainability and volunteerism, education is one of three priority giving areas for PPG’s community engagement efforts.
For Maria Bogdańska, PPG portfolio development manager, Central and Eastern Europe, Architectural Coatings, our focus on supporting educational programs is a path to the future.
“We believe that investing in the young generation is an investment in the future development of science and the sustainable development of the industry in which we operate,” said Maria.
“We want to inspire children to discover the fascinating world of chemistry, develop their creativity and analytical skills, and show how science can have a real impact on everyday life.”
As students prepare to head back to school in many parts of the world, read on to learn more about some of the education programs supported by PPG and the PPG Foundation.