Prototypes for Humanity 2023, an initiative showcasing 100 pioneering inventions aimed at tackling environmental and social challenges, concluded at COP28 with the announcement of winners for its $100,000 prize. Inaugurated by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative engaged university talent across natural sciences, humanities, and technology in a week-long gathering.
The awards recognized five outstanding projects:
- Synthetic Yeast for Biotechnology (Princeton University): Creating a synthetic version of yeast for sustainable food and biofuel production, utilizing engineered microorganisms to revolutionize renewable energy and manufacturing.
- Digital Twins 4 Tailings Dams (University of Oxford): A satellite-based early warning system for monitoring and preventing environmental disasters in mining facilities, specifically tailings storage facilities.
- The Golden Capsule (Hongik University, South Korea): A non-powered medicine-injection device optimized for emergency rescuers in disaster scenarios, enhancing efficiency and eliminating the need for electricity or manual effort.
- Hyapak (Egerton University): Converts water hyacinth into biodegradable plastic alternatives, addressing plastic waste and helping eradicate the invasive water hyacinth simultaneously.
- Kapak (Universidad San Francisco de Quito): A software application combating corruption in Ecuador’s public procurement system using data science and AI, enhancing transparency and empowering citizens.
Sheikha Latifa emphasized the initiative’s vital role in showcasing the importance of science and knowledge for humanity. The winning projects, addressing a wide spectrum of challenges, exemplify the profound impact young innovators can have in shaping a better world. The initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to collective action against climate change challenges and supporting a sustainable future through education and innovation. The winning projects were selected from over 2,800 submissions across 710 universities globally, consolidating the initiative’s position as a leading global innovation and talent pool.
Category Winners:
- Energy, Efficiency, and Waste: Synthetic Yeasts for Biotechnology, Princeton University
- Data Sciences, AI: Digital Twins 4 Tailings Dams, University of Oxford
- Health, Relief, and Safety: The Golden Capsule, Hongik University, South Korea
- Nature, Food, and Water Systems: Hyapak, Egerton University
- Education, Equality, and Communities: Kapak, Universidad San Francisco de Quito
Also Read:
Gold Prices Poised for Record High Despite Dollar’s Recovery
Lionel Messi Champions Sustainability at COP28, Unveils Symbolic Gesture
