Sustainability Innovation Challenge | Deputy-Ministry for Research and Innovation | Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture

CHALLENGE INNOVATE SUSTAIN

A challenge aimed at encouraging university students in the Kingdom to develop innovative solutions addressing specific challenges across three sectors: Environment (vegetation cover and afforestation), Water (water scarcity), and Agriculture (food waste).

GOALS

Engaging university students to raise awareness of sector-specific challenges

Empowering students to transform their ideas into innovative projects.

Developing and adopting innovative solutions in the fields of environment, water, and agriculture

CHALLENGE TOPICS

The challenge is structured into distinct elements, each focusing on a key area: desertification, water loss and grey water management, and the RPW control value chain.

Environment (vegetation cover and afforestation)

Vegetation is a fundamental element in maintaining environmental balance, as it helps reduce desertification, improve air quality, and promote sustainability. Afforestation efforts are among the most effective solutions to support the environment by increasing green spaces and protecting natural resources.

Water (water scarcity)

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing environmental challenges, requiring improved efficiency in water use and the adoption of sustainable solutions to conserve resources. These efforts include rationalizing consumption, developing alternative sources, and supporting modern technologies to ensure water sustainability for future generations.

Agriculture (food waste)

Food waste is a challenge that affects the sustainability of agricultural resources, leading to the loss of large amounts of food and the resources used to produce it. This highlights the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural and food practices and raising awareness to reduce waste and improve food consumption efficiency.

The added value of the program

Creating an innovative community

Effective partnerships with the academic sector

Providing an innovation space

Experimentation with technologies

Guidance and knowledge transfer

Creating entrepreneurial opportunities

Discovering innovative minds

ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS

Students from universities across KSA are invited to participate by submitting their early-stage ideas on the Challenge’s platform.
This is a unique opportunity for participants to contribute innovative solutions and gain invaluable experience.
Each team will consist of 1 faculty member and 4-5 students.

APPLICATION

To participate, complete the submission form for your desired challenge section. All applications will be reviewed thoroughly, and a confirmation letter will be sent.

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Version 2: Sustainability Innovation Challenge 2026

May 21, 2026

CHALLENGE INNOVATE SUSTAIN

Engaging university students to raise awareness of sector-specific challenges

Empowering students to transform their ideas into innovative projects.

Developing and adopting innovative solutions in the fields of environment, water, and agriculture

Environment (vegetation cover and afforestation)

Water (water scarcity)

Agriculture (food waste)

ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS

APPLICATION

To participate, complete the submission form for your desired challenge section. All applications will be reviewed thoroughly, and a confirmation letter will be sent.

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