The Reco Foundation and IBTKRGO Foundation have concluded the first national environmental innovation hackathon in Syria, a program designed to support tech-driven solutions for the country’s pressing environmental challenges. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the “Eco Innovate” event brought together young talent to develop and pitch projects aimed at creating a tangible impact.
Quick Facts
- Syria’s first national environmental innovation hackathon.
- Organized by Reco Foundation and IBTKRGO Foundation.
- Three winning teams to receive financial and technical support.
From 300 Applicants to Three Winners
The three-day hackathon was the culmination of a rigorous selection and training process. From an initial pool of 300 applicants who participated in virtual workshops, 70 were selected for the in-person event in Damascus.
These participants formed eight teams to present projects focused on waste recycling, paper and plastic management, and early warning systems. A specialized judging panel evaluated the final projects on their environmental impact, economic feasibility, potential for implementation, and long-term sustainability, ultimately selecting three winning teams.
Winning Solutions Target Circular Economy
The winning projects showcased practical applications of technology to foster a circular economy. The first-place team, led by mechanical engineering student Boushra Shihab al-Din, presented “Call Paper.” The project is a smart platform that connects entities with recyclable paper to factories that can use it as a raw material.
Another winning project, presented by mechatronics engineering graduate Taimaa Ghazal, focuses on recycling plastic water bottles into filaments for 3D printers. The goal is to provide a low-cost, locally produced material for the growing 3D printing market. The winners will receive technical and financial support to help develop their projects further.
A National Push for Environmental Innovation
Communications Minister Abdul Salam Haykal highlighted the program’s strategic importance, stating that innovation is a key pillar for Syria’s future. He noted that combining environmental science with technology presents a real opportunity to create solutions for both development and environmental issues.
“The true value of projects lies not in winning competitions, but in their ability to become successful projects on the ground,” Haykal commented, urging participants to continue building on their ideas.
Ola al-Haj, Director of the Reco Foundation and Executive Director of Eco Innovate, explained that the hackathon is just the first stage of a larger, year-and-a-half-long program. Future hackathons are planned across Syria to address issues like waste management, wildfires, and water resources. The IBTKRGO Foundation will incubate the winning teams, providing mentorship and connecting them with investors and industry experts.
About Eco Innovate
The national environmental innovation hackathon is a youth-led technological initiative aimed at empowering Syrian youth to develop practical solutions for local environmental challenges. The program’s core mission is to help transform innovative ideas into implementable and sustainable projects on the ground.
Source: SANA
