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Investigating the presence of fuel-related chemicals in soil
Organization(s):St.Michael School
Country:Malta
Student(s):Stephen Edwards
Jamie Sacco
Alexei Mifsud
Nathan Montesin
Jake Camilleri
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Member(s):Joseph Savona
Contributors:MCAST LABORATORY
Report Type(s):Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Air Temperature, Barometric Pressure, Clouds, Precipitation, Relative Humidity, Wind, Soil pH, Soil Temperature
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:2026-01-15
The research aims to investigate the presence of chemicals derived from fuel in the soil. Following a study carried out in 2024 on air quality at St Michael School, during which Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), and particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10) were measured, this study builds upon and complements the previous findings. The study was conducted to sensitise both the school community and the wider social community, including the St Venera Local Council, about the quality of air breathed by a population of approximately 400 individuals for an average of 35 hours per week over 36 weeks per year, as well as the presence of related chemicals within the school grounds. This research was carried out with the support of MCAST and its staff, who assisted in conducting experiments in their advanced laboratories. The results indicated the presence of chemicals and elements associated with the burning of fossil fuels. These findings provide further evidence that supports the results obtained in the previous air quality study. Moreover, the study proposes actions aimed at reducing the presence of these chemicals at both local and national levels, particularly in areas surrounding the school.