Oxford-Style Debate in Żory: Ecology – Trend or Necessity?

Is ecology just a passing trend, or an urgent necessity arising from real environmental challenges? This was the central question explored during the Oxford-style debate held on 31 May 2025 at the “Na Starówce” cinema in Żory. The event was part of the European Union Green Week and took place under the patronage of Poland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU. The debate was hosted by the Municipality of Żory and led by local eco-manager Joanna Szerzyńska-Grabowska as part of the LIFE project “Silesia. Blue Sky Restored.”

Young Minds Debating Circular Economy

The intellectual contest featured two teams:

• Karol Miarka High School (I LO) in Żory,

• School Complex No. 2 (ZS nr 2) named after Rev. Prof. Józef Tischner.

The central topic: Ecology – fashion or necessity? Circular economy in practice.

Moderated by Agnieszka Kraińska, educator and editor-in-chief of Radio Żory, the debate challenged students to tackle issues such as environmental law, climate-conscious consumer behavior, circular economy solutions and the roles of individuals versus industry in environmental responsibility.

Strong Arguments Lead to Victory

Following a high-level, engaging debate, the team from ZS nr 2 emerged victorious. Under the guidance of Mateusz Huk, the winning team included:
Kinga Zniszczoł, Martyna Kozieł, Alicja Grzyb and Patrycja Kalinowska.

Their arguments impressed both the audience and the judging panel:

• Joanna Szerzyńska-Grabowska – eco-manager,

• Anna Buchta – Head of the Environmental Engineering Department,

• Dominik Krusberski – Head of the Education Department.

Debate as a Tool for Environmental Education

Oxford-style debating not only sharpens rhetorical skills and critical thinking but also promotes respectful dialogue and constructive disagreement. The topic of the circular economy was addressed with clarity and thoughtfulness, encouraging the audience to consider whether ecological action is today’s imperative or simply social fashion.

Recognition and What’s Next

Each participant received eco-themed prizes and gift vouchers, while the winning school was awarded an air purifier – a symbolic and practical gesture to support better indoor air quality. The ZS nr 2 team will now represent Żory in the next round of regional Oxford-style debates in the western subregion of the Silesian Voivodeship.