The new Global CREST challenges are based around Practical Action’s work, which uses science and technology to address global issues such as energy, water and food. 

They give students a real insight into how science and technology can be used to tackle challenges faced by communities in the developing world, and how they can be part of the solution.  The resources could be used at CREST Bronze, Silver or Gold level, depending on how they are applied.

The downloads on the Practical Action website provide information on how to get started with the CREST Awards and contain a wealth of information and videos on the five different themes which are:

Shelter
Solving housing problems is a huge task in the developing world. Projects can be around the materials used in construction or the different designs needed for flood proof or earthquake resistant housing.

Food
Having sufficient food is one of the major challenges facing us all in the future. Growing, processing and storing food are all areas that make really interesting projects

Transport
Transport links are essential in helping people lift themselves out of poverty. Students can work on a range of transport projects form bicycles to aerial ropeways.

Water
Clean water is essential to life. Diseases carried by water kill millions of people every year. Ideas for projects around getting water, cleaning it, storing it and using it are suggested.

Energy
Access to energy to be able to cook, produce lighting and heating is vital in lifting people out of poverty. Projects can be designed around renewable energy sources, and how to make, store, move and use energy.

With website links providing useful background  information and access to technical information used by real engineers and scientists in the field, these project resources provide a creative starting point for worthwhile project work.

For further information: http://practicalaction.org/crest