Robbinsville High School’s Science Olympiad Club is taking on local environmental issues through a new series of “passion projects” that put student research into real-world practice.
One of the club’s flagship efforts uses mycoremediation, a process in which mushroom colonies absorb toxins from soil and water. Students are testing water sources around town and cultivating mushroom colonies to help remove contaminants before they reach storm drains.
“The idea is to use these mushroom colonies to remove toxins from water before it even reaches storm drains,” Club President Shayan Chatterjee said.
The project, known as Eco Flow, is part of the club’s expanded mission to tackle community issues through science. Students launched the passion project model this year to move beyond competition and toward local engagement.
Another effort, called RX Safe, focuses on promoting responsible prescription disposal. The initiative builds on the statewide New Jersey Project Medicine Drop program by emphasizing the environmental effects of pharmaceuticals that are thrown away instead of brought to a drop box.
“Pharmaceuticals released into the environment can have a highly negative effect on local ecosystems,” club vice president Arnav Janeesh said.
Students have created pamphlets and outreach materials to encourage residents to use the prescription drop box at the Robbinsville Township Police Department. The club is partnering with police to distribute the information.
The club’s work also extends to younger students. Members host the annual Robbinsville Science & Arts Fusion Fest at Sharon Elementary School, where children can participate in hands-on activities such as slime experiments and egg drop challenges. A new districtwide Sci-Fest is also planned, with awards presented by Science Olympiad students.
“Our goal is to make sure students across the district know that science is for everyone,” executive board member Sahanashree Rajeshkumar said.
This year, the club’s 19 members will compete in about 23 chemistry, physics and biology events at the Camden County College Regional Tournament on January 15. The top six teams advance to states.
“Science Olympiad has grown into a space where students use science to make a real impact on our community,” club advisor Dan Genovese said. “Initiatives like Rx Safe and Eco Flow show how our students think beyond competition, applying their skills to protect local ecosystems and promote responsible habits that positively impact everyone in Robbinsville.”
“It is inspiring to see the Science Olympiad Club continue to do exceptionally well in preparing for this year’s competitions and choose to make such a positive mark on the Robbinsville community through their passion projects,” Robbinsville Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Patrick Pizzo said.
