Top university project a load of old rubbish

Students involved received cash prizes for their efforts from waste management company Bergmann Direct Ltd, which judged their efforts.

Imaginations really ran riot in the category best novelty product, which included plans to convert disused aircraft into low-cost sustainable housing and a proposal to transform old air ducts into wardrobe units.

A total of 75 mechanical engineering students took part in the project, with 500 available for the overall best design.

Devices were designed for sorting, compacting and storing waste as part of the unique new university module.

The brief was for the students to work in teams to design something that would leave refuse in a condition ready for on-street collection or recycling.

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The students were also asked to develop a novel product out of recyclable materials or what others may see as 'rubbish'.

Geoff Heppell, a senior teaching fellow who led the module, said: "With this module we wanted to create a project that would educate our students about the necessity of engineering in waste management and how their skills can have a direct impact on the future of our planet."

Student Henry Brunskill, a member of the winning team for best design, said: "I think the secret of our success was our teamwork and friendship as a group.

"Everyone was willing to work and we all found every aspect of the module enjoyable.

"We hope maybe one day our product will be available to consumers, so watch this space!"

Gordon McQueen, Bergman managing director, said the overall winner featured a truly innovative idea for recycling glass and for compacting waste in bins.

"The winning idea could go into production tomorrow," he added.