KAUST's Women to Impact (WTI) initiative launched the Resilience Challenge as part of the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP). The challenge seeks tech-based solutions for building resilience in ecosystems against climate change, epidemics, and food insecurity. The winning solution will receive $10,000 USD, with second and third prizes of $7,000 and $5,000 respectively; the competition is open globally to diverse teams and individuals, with a submission deadline of December 31, 2021. Why it matters: The initiative highlights KAUST's focus on sustainability and aims to foster technology-driven solutions aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging global participation in addressing critical environmental and health challenges.
KAUST's Urban Lab is developing the Saudi National Life Cycle Inventory, an environmental database providing quantitative data on the environmental impact of products and processes in Saudi Arabia. The database includes information on raw material use, energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, and air pollutants specific to the Kingdom. This project was highlighted at the 'Greening the Giga' workshop, where KAUST also released a report on building a national framework for Life Cycle Assessments. Why it matters: The database and framework can guide multiple sectors in adopting green technology and help Saudi Arabia achieve its net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2060.
KAUST is seeking technology-based solutions to build resilience in local ecosystems facing challenges like climate change, disasters, and food insecurity. The WTI Resilience Challenge 2021/22 is accepting proposals under four tracks, with a deadline of December 9, 2021. The top five nominees will receive KAUST mentorship, and three winners will be awarded prizes during the WEP closure ceremony. Why it matters: This challenge promotes innovation in addressing critical environmental and societal issues, aligning with Saudi Arabia's focus on sustainability and technological advancement.
MBZUAI is developing the AI Operating System (AIOS) to reduce the energy, time, and talent costs of AI computing. AIOS aims to make AI models smaller, faster, and more efficient, reducing reliance on expensive hardware and speeding up compute operations. It also enables cost-aware model tuning and standardizes AI modules for reliable operation. Why it matters: By addressing the environmental impact and resource demands of AI, AIOS could promote more sustainable and accessible AI development in the region and globally.
KAUST researchers are exploring thin-film device technologies using materials like printable organics and metal oxides for a greener Internet of Things (IoT). They propose wirelessly powered sensor nodes using energy harvesters to reduce reliance on batteries, which are costly and environmentally harmful. Large-area electronics, printed on flexible substrates, offer a more eco-friendly alternative to silicon-based technologies due to solution-based processing and lower production temperatures. Why it matters: This research contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly IoT ecosystem, aligning with global efforts to reduce electronic waste and energy consumption.