2024-10-29 09:04:00
Details
Efiaqua
Spain
Environmental news
October 29, 2024
The second edition of the Efiaqua Hackathon, Green Water Capital Fair, has so far brought together more than 150 students who accepted the challenge of proposing innovative solutions for sustainable water managementas part of the commemorative year of Valencia and its Green Capital.
The event, which will take place from 12 to 14 November at the Feria Valencia, sees the participation of important companies in the sector such as Global Omnium, Acciona, SAV, CICLAGUA, FACSA, Aqualia and the Jucar Hydrographic Confederation.
The aim of this hackathon is to promote and encourage innovation, talent and the development of new ideas on water management and solutions that add value to the European Green Capital that Valencia holds this year 2024. During the online and person, will generate a collaborative space that will bring together students and mentors from the event’s sponsoring entities.
Students face six challenges, all related to “clean water and green solutions” covering aspects such as water circularity in cities; the decarbonisation of the water and energy storage sector; advanced technologies for monitoring water quality; water economy and sustainability; the protection of diversity: conservation of aquatic ecosystems and guarantee of water availability, finally resilient urban areas in the face of drought and extreme weather events.
The teams will have three days to develop their solutions, which will be evaluated by a committee of experts who will select the winner. The final presentation of the projects will take place on Thursday 14 November, when the winning team or individual will be announced.
The prize consists of the possibility of carrying out curricular or extracurricular internships during an entire training course in one of the organizing companies, a great experience for young talents who seek to make a difference in the water management sector.
Source: Efiaqua
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Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of sustainable water management, especially in light of the second edition of the Efiaqua Hackathon taking place in Valencia. Joining me is Dr. Maria Gonzalez, a leading expert in environmental engineering and water resource management. Dr. Gonzalez, it’s a pleasure to have you here today.
Dr. Gonzalez: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic, especially with such an innovative event like the Efiaqua Hackathon coming up.
Interviewer: Absolutely! The hackathon has attracted over 150 students eager to propose solutions for sustainable water management. What are your thoughts on the significance of involving students and young innovators in such critical challenges?
Dr. Gonzalez: Involving students is crucial. They bring fresh perspectives and ideas that can challenge the status quo. Water management is a pressing global issue, and empowering the next generation with the skills and creativity to tackle these problems ensures that we can adapt and innovate as we face future challenges.
Interviewer: Definitely! The event is part of Valencia’s initiative as a Green Capital. How do you think recognition like the Green Capital designation impacts local innovation and sustainability efforts?
Dr. Gonzalez: The Green Capital designation sends a strong message of commitment to sustainability, inspiring both citizens and businesses to get involved. It provides a platform for collaboration, like the hackathon, and emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in daily life. This recognition can also attract investment and talent to the region, creating a ripple effect that fosters more innovative solutions.
Interviewer: That’s an interesting point. The hackathon will see participation from major companies like Global Omnium and Acciona. How important is collaboration between students and established firms in addressing environmental challenges?
Dr. Gonzalez: Collaboration is essential. Established companies can share valuable insights and resources, providing mentorship to students. This type of partnership not only helps bridge the gap between theory and practice but also enhances the practicality of the solutions proposed. When students work alongside industry experts, it elevates their ideas and increases the chances of successful implementation.
Interviewer: You mentioned practical solutions. What types of innovations do you hope to see emerge from this hackathon?
Dr. Gonzalez: I hope to see a range of solutions that focus on efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability. Ideas could include new water conservation technologies, community engagement programs, or software that helps manage water resources more effectively. I would love to see concepts that also consider the social aspects of water management, making sure all communities have access to clean water.
Interviewer: That sounds promising! With technology advancing rapidly, how do you view the role of digital solutions in water management today?
Dr. Gonzalez: Digital solutions play a transformative role. Technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), AI, and data analytics can optimize water usage, detect leaks in real-time, and forecast water supply needs more accurately. They provide the data necessary for informed decision-making, which is essential for effective management of our water resources.
Interviewer: It’s exciting to think about the future of water management! As we wrap up, what message would you like to share with the students participating in the hackathon?
Dr. Gonzalez: I’d like to encourage them to think boldly and creatively. Every big innovation begins with a simple idea. Don’t be afraid to challenge existing paradigms—sustainable water management needs your energy, passion, and creativity to drive change. Good luck to all participants!
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Gonzalez, for your insights and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing the innovative ideas that come out of the Efiaqua Hackathon and how they contribute to the future of sustainable water management!
Dr. Gonzalez: Thank you for having me. It’s going to be an exciting event!