The Water Environment Federation (WEF) has proudly announced that 58 high school students have been selected as 2018 state winners of the U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize, the nation’s most prestigious youth award for a water-related science project.
Students from 47 states and Puerto Rico will now compete in the national finals on the 16th of June at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (U.S.) with the winner receiving US$10,000 and an all-expenses-paid trip to Stockholm to represent the U.S. at the international competition during World Water Week, to be held from the 26th to the 31st of August.
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize aims to increase students’ interest in water issues, research, and careers, as well as to raise awareness about global water challenges. The competition is open to projects focused on improving water quality, water resource management, water protection, as well as drinking water and wastewater treatment.
“These are some of our country’s most intelligent students, and the innovation and creativity reflected in their projects is truly amazing,” said Eileen O’Neill, WEF Executive Director. “The work of these young scientists shows that the future of water science and research is indeed bright.”
In the U.S., WEF and its Member Associations organise the regional, state, and national competitions with support from Xylem Inc., who also sponsors the international competition. The Bjorn von Euler Innovation in Water Scholarship Award, a US$1,000 scholarship sponsored by Xylem Inc., will be also awarded to the state winner who demonstrates a passion for education, spirit of creativity, and innovation. In addition, one project will be chosen for WEF’s James L. Condon Recognition for Environmental Stewardship.
