“Maldives Ocean Hackathon 2023” Commences to Address Climate Issues

The “Maldives Ocean Hackathon 2023,” a collaborative initiative to harness digital technology in combating climate challenges, was officially launched yesterday.

The inauguration of this significant ocean hackathon took place at CROSSROADS Maldives and was presided over by the Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Technology, Aminath Shauna.

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The Maldives Ocean Hackathon 2023 is officially underway, uniting brilliant minds to combat the challenges of climate change and safeguard our precious marine environment! Minister Shauna’s inspiring opening speech stressed the crucial role of data in policymaking. pic.twitter.com/NVyWEpwXeG— Min. of Environment, Climate Change and Technology (@MoEnvmv) October 15, 2023

In the context of the “Maldives Ocean Hackathon 2023,” ten participating teams presented a diverse range of ideas aimed at identifying the repercussions of climate change on the vulnerable islands of Maldives. These proposals intend to provide data to inform policy decisions. 

Among the proposals from the Maldives were innovative solutions to facilitate access to the latest data, the protection of marine life, reporting mechanisms for beach-related issues, real-time satellite and drone monitoring of erosion, and data on beach conditions and marine pollution, coupled with mitigation strategies.

🚀 Let the innovation begin! The 2023 Maldives Ocean Hackathon is now in full swing at Crossroads Maldives, Get ready to explore the limitless potential of the ocean! #MvOceanHack pic.twitter.com/i9UivkYoxg— Maldives Ocean Hackathon (@mvoceanhack) October 15, 2023

During her address at the launch of the event, Shauna underscored the persistent challenges arising from climate change, including issues related to clean water access, fossil fuel consumption, and plastic usage. She emphasised that these challenges remain unresolved, necessitating the need for up-to-date data to minimise harm to Maldives’ delicate environment. 

Shauna noted that there has been a notable absence of long-term data collection in this regard and stressed the importance of acquiring the most recent and relevant information to formulate effective solutions.

Shauna also highlighted the significance of collaborating with Maldives’ technology partners and utilising available data to address climate-induced damage. She emphasised that data from those monitoring the state of coral reefs, coastal areas, and beaches is of utmost importance in this endeavour. 

The “Maldives Ocean Hackathon 2023” serves as a platform for technologists and environmentalists to collaborate on research and find practical solutions to climate change-related challenges through the use of digital technology. This 48-hour hackathon spans three days to ensure maximum participation and engagement.

The event will run until the 17th of this month at Cross Roads, Maldives, where ten participating teams will compete for a prize of USD 10,000, awarded to the winning proposal.