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BE OPEN Enhances Youth Engagement in Sustainability at COP29

On November 16, 2024, at the COP29 event in Baku, BE OPEN held an insightful session aimed at sharing its multi-year competition program supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The occasion also celebrated the remarkable achievements of young innovators who contributed to the recent 'Design Your Climate Action' competition.

The event took place in the Extreme Hangout Zone, where the BE OPEN Foundation explained the rationale behind its student competition program. Each year, the initiative emphasizes a specific goal from the SDGs. Previous focuses have included SDG 12, which pertains to Sustainable Consumption and Production; SDG 11, emphasizing Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 2, targeting Zero Hunger; SDG 7, advocating for Affordable and Clean Energy; and SDG 13, addressing Climate Action. By centering on these urgent issues, the program aims to inspire young, creative individuals to devise innovative solutions for a sustainable and prosperous future.

Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, addressed guests at COP29, sharing her dedication to the program. She stated, "Every year, we gather hundreds of outstanding, well-researched, and creative projects from young people worldwide. We are continually encouraged that educating and motivating youth is the best way to advocate for sustainable change. Our objective expands each year as we provide a platform for discussion, opportunities for self-education, built confidence, and recognition of their importance."

The presentations by the winning teams encapsulated the session's essence. Tshepiso Motau, Tsebo Mokwena, and Bongeka Buthelezi, industrial design students from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, showcased their Swiftguard Early Flood Warning System. This innovative communication system is designed to provide early flood alerts and comprises a telemetry buoy, signal pole, and a solar-powered alarm system.

Emilia Ziolek, a product design and technology student from the University of Limerick, Ireland, who won third place and the Founder's Choice Award, discussed her project, Tidal Energy Turbine Form Redesign with Biomimicry. This design aims to revolutionize turbine technology by eliminating rotating blades, thereby minimizing impacts on marine life while boosting energy conversion efficiency.

The top award went to Colombian Biodesign students Darcy Rincón and Michelle Aljure, who presented their Inspira System. Their initiative aims to introduce Spirulina cultivation in low-income neighborhoods of Bogotá to combat malnutrition, offer new income opportunities, and enhance sustainability within vulnerable communities. The presence of representatives from the Colombian embassy underscored the importance of their work and the international attention it garnered.

Following the presentations, BE OPEN invited attending students to engage in the ongoing project Designing Futures 2050, aimed at raising awareness about the pressing need for immediate sustainable actions in today's reality. This initiative seeks to contribute to the practical application of sustainability values by showcasing and promoting ideas that support the global transition toward a sustainable future.

To reward the best submissions, BE OPEN offers cash prizes ranging from €2,000 to €5,000 and opportunities to attend significant sustainability events. BE OPEN firmly believes that fostering innovative, creative approaches and involving young people in meaningful actions through education and motivation are crucial for transforming toward a sustainable existence.