AN IDEA to create an eco-friendly asthma inhaler has earned a group of innovative Year 9 pupils from Tameside national recognition.
Fairfield High School for Girls in Droylsden were one of just four winning teams across the country in the Young Green Briton Challenge.
Inspired by a fellow student’s experience with asthma, their ‘SustainInhale’ concept – an inhaler designed to reduce plastic waste and environmental harm – has received a £750 investment and mentorship to move the project forward.
The pupils identified the environmental cost of single-use plastic inhalers and proposed a reusable casing paired with a recyclable canister.
They developed a working prototype, launched a dedicated Instagram page @sustaininhale and even secured early interest from pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca.
Their pitch at the regional finals in Liverpool impressed Liverpool Council leader, Cllr Anthony Burns, so much that he wrote to Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham urging him to offer his support.
“I really am not doing these students justice in this email – they were absolutely outstanding,” he wrote. “I would recommend a visit so you can meet these wonderful students.”
The competition, run by GenEarth to support youth-led environmental innovation, began with 47 teams from across the UK.
With national recognition, seed funding and expert mentorship now secured, the pupils will look to develop the concept further and turn their classroom innovation into a real-world solution.
Miss Derrett, who has supported the girls along the way, said she was “absolutely thrilled” by their achievement.
“We couldn’t be prouder,” she said. “Their creativity, passion and commitment to sustainability truly set them apart.
“From the very beginning, SustainInhale demonstrated innovation and teamwork, tackling real-world environmental issues with inspiring solutions. Their win is a testament not only to their hard work, but also to the power of youth-led change.”