Across Europe the problems of climate change and the environment are being solved through EU cooperation and the development of new technologies. This year the EU Commission and EU Parliament stand at the Young Scientist exhibition focuses on explaining global warming and what can be done to stop it.

Also on hand is Dr Stephen Langrell, a former winner of the Young Scientist Exhibition, and current chief scientist at the EU Joint Research Centre in Seville, who will explain how his prize-winning project encouraged him to become an expert in the field of environmental sustainability.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition Martin Territt, Director of the European Commission Representation in Ireland said, "It is important for the students to see how Europe is confronting future challenges and the role that technology can play in these campaigns. Institutions like the European Commission are not only at the forefront of developing these new technologies through science investment initiatives like the FP7 research programme, but also fostering a transfer of knowledge between higher level institutes through the Erasmus and Leonardo Da Vinci Programmes."

Mr Territt added, "The EU is always proud to maintain a strong association with the Young Scientist exhibition. Last year two Young Scientist first prize-winners from Kinsale went on to win the prestigious EU Contest for young scientists, for a new form of testing in milk production. Ireland continues to produce top class scientists and the EU has a responsibility to foster this talent and develop a working knowledge economy."

At the European Union stand visitors will be able to jump on one of the "energy bikes" where they can see the level of pedal power needed to power a light bulb or a computer! This allows them to see exactly how much energy is used to generate electricity.

Students will also get to meet, Dr Stephen Langrell who will talk about his work at the EU's Joint Research Centre in Seville. In 1986 Dr Langrell won the exhibition for his research into the endangered cottonweed which inspired him to a career as a botanist and he now specialises in ways of maintaining biosecurity, food security and promoting sustainability.

Dr Langrell will be giving a talk at the Eco-theatre at 3.30 on Thursday and Friday on the work of the European Commission in promoting science and technology and also his fascinating career.

Visitors will be able to learn more about the types of research the EU funds both at home and throughout Europe. Currently Ireland receives approximately €1 million a week through the 7th Framework Initiative. Projects supported are as varied as advancing understanding of Atlantic salmon, virtual training for medical professionals through to ground breaking astronomy.