Stockholm Junior Water Prize invites students to submit entries for 2022

The Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize is set to launch this National Water Week (18-24 October) and invites high school students from around Australia to create solutions for current and future water challenges.

Proudly supported by Xylem, the winner of the prize will be announced in May 2022 at Ozwater’22, the Australian Water Association’s international water conference.

The winner of the Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize will go on to compete globally for the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. Students traveling to Stockholm during World Water Week in August 2022 to participate in the week-long cultural exchange program.

The competition challenges young scientists to think about big water problems, both local and global, encouraging students to delve into a range of research areas, including water quality, resource management, water and sanitation, and water and wastewater treatment.

Innovations in turbidity

The 2021 winner of the Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize, Annabelle Strachan from Meriden School, investigated the feasibility of a bio-flocculant as an accessible, safe, affordable and environmentally friendly option to reduce turbidity.

Using a combination of dried lemon peel and chitosan, Strachan tested different concentrations to find the optimal dosages to reduce turbidity.

Strachan said the experience offered her invaluable insights into the water sector, both in Australia and internationally.

“The most fun thing about participating in the Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize was the opportunity to travel to Adelaide and meet industry specialists from around the country. It was so amazing to see their passion for water and just how much they loved their job,” she said.

“The biggest thing I have learnt during my project and participation in the Stockholm Junior Water Prize is the importance of interconnectedness of different specialities in solving problems.

“I witnessed the integration of so many fields at the Ozwater’21 Gala Dinner — from science to engineering and marketing — in reimagining what water looks like in the future.

“During the International Stockholm Junior Water Prize I had the opportunity to virtually visit water facilities in Sweden and Argentina, and interact with water leaders from around the world.

“Each had such diverse education backgrounds but had all been united by their passion for solving water.”

Strachan said she encourages all students to get involved in the prize, as it is a great opportunity to learn more about water from leaders in the sector.

“I would definitely encourage other students to get involved because it was an invaluable experience that I am so grateful for,” she said.

“It has given me the opportunity to meet from present leaders of the global water community who have provided me with indispensable insights and inspiration. I have learnt so much from the experience and will continue to draw from it throughout my life.”

Know a budding young scientist passionate about water? Project outlines are due by 1 December 2021.