KAUST Associate Professor Peiying Hong has developed a wastewater treatment method using anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) technology, which converts organic carbon into methane. In partnership with MODON, a pilot program is operational in Jeddah, treating 23,000 liters of wastewater daily using UV light and hydrogen peroxide for disinfection. This system produces clean water suitable for agriculture and biomass for fertilizer, with a smaller footprint and lower energy consumption than traditional aerobic methods. Why it matters: The AnMBR technology aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's water reuse objectives, reducing reliance on energy-intensive desalination and offering a sustainable solution for water-stressed regions.
KAUST and the Al-Madinah Region Development Authority (MDA) signed an MoU to enhance efficiency, resiliency, and safety in Al-Madinah. KAUST will share high-resolution climate change projections and assess soil loss dynamics. The collaboration aims to tackle challenges in the environmental and water sectors through research, development, and training. Why it matters: This partnership showcases KAUST's role in translating research into practical smart city solutions for regional development, addressing critical environmental concerns.
KAUST and the Misk Initiatives Center signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand collaboration and achieve national development goals. The partnership focuses on academic and pre-professional development for Saudi students, entrepreneurial activities, and joint educational programs. Top students from Misk will be nominated for KAUST programs like SRSI, KGSP, and KSLP. Why it matters: This MoU signifies a strategic alignment between KAUST and Misk to cultivate Saudi talent and promote innovation, contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
KAUST spin-out company NOMADD, which specializes in robotic PV cleaning systems, has secured a Series B investment from Saudi construction company CEPCO. The investment will support NOMADD's project pipeline and growth ambitions, enabling them to scale operations and serve more customers. CEPCO will also advise on technology development and local manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This investment validates KAUST's innovation fund strategy and supports the deployment of sustainable energy solutions in the region, leveraging local expertise and manufacturing.
KAUST and Aeon Collective signed an MoU on October 25, 2022, to advance sustainability projects in Saudi Arabia and internationally. Aeon Collective is a Waqf focused on sustainability, while KAUST is a research university addressing global sustainability challenges. The MoU aims to strengthen cooperation in sustainability education, research communication, capacity building, and youth engagement in support of Vision 2030 and the UN SDGs. Why it matters: This partnership will combine KAUST's research expertise with Aeon Collective's outreach capabilities to promote sustainability initiatives and education in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Mona Alsomali, who graduated from KAUST in 2016 with a Ph.D. in bioscience-microbial genomics, is now a senior microbiologist. She is currently employed at the Dow Middle East Innovation Center (MEIC)/KAUST. The center is located at KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in producing skilled graduates who contribute to scientific innovation in the region.
KAUST startup uODS signed an MoU with Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company (Luberef) to develop and deploy technology removing sulfur from hydrocarbons. The uODS process, based on KAUST's sonochemistry research, reduces sulfur in marine fuels to meet IMO 2020 regulations. Luberef aims to reduce its environmental footprint by piloting the uODS technology at its Jeddah refineries, with uODS set to produce 10 tons per day of desulfurized fuel for testing. Why it matters: The partnership demonstrates KAUST's role in addressing Saudi Arabia's environmental goals and showcases the potential of university spin-offs to contribute to a more sustainable oil industry in the region.