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AquaHacking Finals: Pioneering Solutions for PFAs, Lead, Microplastics and Nutrients - Aqua Action

Written by SC Huneault | Apr 19, 2024 4:00:00 AM

 

AquaHacking Great Lakes Finals: Pioneering Solutions for Urgent Freshwater Issues: PFAs, Lead, Microplastics and Nutrients

 

Excitement is building as we approach the highly anticipated Final of the AquaHacking Great Lakes Challenge, on May 10th, 2:00 p.m.! Ten exceptional teams will unveil and pitch their innovative solutions addressing crucial issues looming over our precious freshwater resources.

 

This is much more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of ingenuity, determination and passion for protecting our blue gold.

 

After months of intensive preparation, the finalist teams are ready to unveil their innovative solutions to a panel of expert judges all vying for the 1st prize of $20,000. Be sure to add the Final to your calendar, because the voice of the public also matters; Vote for your favorite team and solution to make them win an additional $1,000.

 

RSVP on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/43TU3dF     RSVP on Facebook: https://bit.ly/448Apuj

 

This is your chance to discover innovative solutions developed by the AquaHacking Great Lakes Finalists.

 

In the meantime, meet the founders behind the innovations with the following videos :

 

ELIMINATING FOREVER CHEMICALS (PFAs)

 

Myconaut

 

 

Blending regenerative agriculture and fungi-based technology, MycoNaut pioneers cost-effective bioremediation solutions for PFAS-contaminated soils. Marquette, MI, USA.

 

Wave Lumina

 

 

The team developed a portable Raman device to swiftly detect ultra-low levels of PFAS and other contaminants in environmental samples, revolutionizing on-site environmental assessments. Traverse City, MI, USA.

 

LEAD CONTAMINATION

 

Motmot

 

 

Deploying Autonomous Underwater Robotics in municipal water supply pipes, Motmot targets and measures lead levels, ensuring safe drinking water. Michigan State University, MI, USA.

 

Clean Water Nanotechnology (CWNT)

 

 

The team proposes a Biosensor combined with machine learning to monitor water contaminants in real-time, initially for the beverage industry and later for public and private buildings, aiming to improve water safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental sustainability. Houghton, MI, USA.

 

Proto-StLo

 

 

Introducing a novel algal filtration technology, Proto-StLo reduces lead concentration in drinking water through powdered algal extract and pH regulation. Champlain College St. Lawrence, QC, Canada.

 

elerGreen

 

 

Employing electrochemical reactors, elerGreen recovers valuable metals and polymers from wastewater, including lead contaminants. Toronto, ON, Canada.

 

Quantum Water

 

 

Using insect-based carbon quantum dots, Quantum Water provides an innovative way to detect lead contamination in water. University of Waterloo, ON, Canada.

 

MICROPLASTICS

 

Maxinano

 

 

Leveraging electro-sorption technology, Maxinano captures charged plastic particles in water, reducing microplastic and nanoplastic pollution in our water. – Concordia University, QC, Canada

 

Baleena

 

 

Designing microfiber-trapping filters for household washing machines, Baleena tackles microplastic pollution at its source. Philadelphia, PN, USA.

 

NUTRIENT & NUTRIENT CYCLING MANAGEMENT

 

AI for Quality Water

 

 

They developed Aquawatch, a platform using advanced technology to analyze satellite images for water quality, providing real-time alerts to help manage and improve water conditions. Florida International University & University of West Florida, FL, USA.

 

The innovation displayed by these finalist teams testifies to the urgency and collective will to respond to the crucial water-related challenges facing our province. Their dedication and ingenuity underscore the depth of their commitment to a more regenerative economy.

 

 See you on May 10th for what promises to be a memorable final!

RSVP on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/43TU3dF     RSVP on Facebook: https://bit.ly/448Apuj