SDGzine_SE017 _ Special edition UNIGE_Summerschool2025 by ADDICTLAB

Table of Content

1/ Tshingua University ComNergy

2/ Yunnan University AquaNovate

3 / Alliance University Green Materials

4 / University of Lagos Team Factflow

5 / Masinde Muliro University of Science and technology Tafiti Research and Innovation Hub (RISE)

6 / University of Copenhagen Community-Based Action Plan for T1D Children

7 / United States International University - Africa Wetlands4Wellness

This SDGZINE issue is a special school edition with content generated by the winning teams of the SDG Summer Schools.

university contact info@sdgsolutionspace.org

8 / University Of Eastern Africa, Baraton RISE 30

9 / United States International University-Africa Cycle Charge Power

10 / Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Peellnnova

11 / Grigol Robakidze University Ertoba

12 / University of Geneva SDG Data Navigator

13 / Technical University of Munich, Germany Fishnergy

14 / Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology Eco²- SHE

editorial team Ivonne Arica -François GreyJan Van Mol

SDGZINE.ORG is an initiative from the ADDICTLAB ACADEMY and partners contributing to the sustainable development goals of the United Nations.

Introduction

The SDG Olympiad is a global competition designed to inspire university students to tackle the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year, the SDG Solution Space hosted the second edition of the Olympiad, centered on the theme Data to measure, monitor, and advance progress toward the SDGs.

The SDG Olympiad leverages a growing network of 14 universities that host innovation events — including SDG Summer Schools, hackathons, design sprints, innovation labs, and semester courses — and provides a platform for the most promising solutions to access mentorship and further advance their ideas toward implementation.

While each SDG innovation event reflects the unique context of its host university, they all share a common structure: team-based programmes focused on hands-on prototype development. Students work in close collaboration with international organizations, NGOs, professors, and local communities to move from concept to practical demonstrations that generate meaningful data to address the SDGs. Throughout the process, participants receive intensive mentoring and coaching, becoming part of a growing global community of young innovators.

In 2025, the theme of the SDG Olympiad was Data for the SDGs. Eleven universities worldwide hosted SDG Innovation Events: University of Geneva, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, United States International University–Africa (Nairobi), University of Lagos, Technical University of Munich, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Tsinghua University, University of Copenhagen, Grigol Robakidze University, and Alliance University. Through a partnership with Global Citizen, an advocacy platform dedicated to ending extreme poverty, we also launched the Global Challenges Online Programme. Students from around the world were invited to form teams, connect with mentors, and address one of three challenges proposed by our partner. The top projects advanced to the finals in Geneva.

The SDG Olympiad awarded two categories of prizes: the SDG Olympiad Global Award and the SDG Olympiad Special Award. The Global

Award recognizes the top three projects with gold, silver, and bronze medals. Each host university nominated its strongest team, who presented their projects live to an international jury during the Award Ceremony in Geneva. The Special Awards celebrated excellence across specific categories: Scalable Solutions, Research, Community-Based Impact, Tech for Impact, and Cross-Sector Collaboration. From October 10 to 13, twenty-one students embarked on a transformative journey in Geneva. The programme included a welcome session at the International Telecommunication Union, the live pitches and Award Ceremony, a hackathon on Language and Learning inspired by the centenary of the debate between Noam Chomsky and Jean Piaget, cultural activities, workshops to design the future of their projects, and co-creation sessions for the upcoming regional editions of the SDG Olympiad.

An international jury evaluated the projects and provided valuable feedback. The jury included representatives from the International Telecommunication Union, Aga Khan Foundation, Geneva Responsible Entrepreneurship Center (GREC), Albatross EU, the International Olympic Committee, Global Citizen, and CERN.

This edition of the SDG Zine showcases the winning projects from both the Global and Special Awards. We invite you to explore these innovative solutions driving progress toward a more sustainable future.

contact info@sdgzine.org

publisher

Jan Van Mol

MILANO

Visit to CERN

Hackathon Language and Learning

Designing

ComNergy

Building a Green and Inclusive AI Infrastructure

The first productized idle-GPU grid in mainland China. It links 10,000+ dispersed GPUs (>90% access) to second-scale, low-cost, green compute for AI bursts. Dynamic algorithms solve idle-time scheduling and compatibility barriers, creating new income for owners and cutting costs for 60+ enterprises, 24+ research teams and 10,000+ individual developers. By prioritizing data centers powered by renewable energy, the platform raises new-energy utilization and drives down carbon emissions.

Our platform connects the supply of idle GPUs from individuals, internet cafés, and enterprises with the demand from AI developers, researchers, and AIGC companies

COMNERGY TEAM

ComNergy

Building a Green and Inclusive AI Infrastructure

TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY ∙ BEIJING, CHINA HLA@SUANLEME.CN

ComNergy Team

Problem Statement

Tsinghua University Beijing, China hla@suanleme cn

Problem Statement

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) has triggered an unprecedented demand for computing power. However, this demand is highly volatile—doubling every few months—while traditional cloud providers rely on long-term, bulk leasing models. This mismatch leads to: Severe underutilization of computing resources, high costs for developers and researchers and increased carbon emissions from energy-intensive data centers This creates what we call the “Impossible Triangle” of computing power”: users must choose between low cost, high flexibility, and reliable stability. Achieving all three typically increases costs by up to five times.

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) has triggered an unprecedented dem computing power However, this demand is highly volatile doubling every few months while traditional cloud providers rely on long-term, bulk leasing models This mismatch leads to: Severe underutilization of computing resources, high costs for developers and researchers and increased carbon emissions from energy-intensive data centers This creates what we call the "Impossible Triangle” of computing power": users must choose between low cost, high flexibility, and reliable stability Achieving all three typically increases costs by up to five times

We provide true elasticity, enabling workloads to scale to thousands o GPUs within minutes Our pay-as-you-go pricing model helps reduce computing costs by up to 50 percent, while our serverless architecture eliminates operational overhead, requiring no maintenance

We provide true elasticity, enabling workloads to scale to thousands o GPUs within minutes. Our pay-as-you-go pricing model helps reduce computing costs by up to 50 percent, while our serverless architecture eliminates operational overhead, requiring no maintenance.

Our work contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Under SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), the platform optimizes renewable energy use by relocating computational workloads instead of physical power, ensuring cleaner operations In line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), it builds a decentralized and resilient AI infrastructure that strengthens digital capacity and innovation Aligned with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), it maximizes resource efficiency by repurposing idle GPUs that would otherwise remain unused Finally, through SDG 13 (Climate Action), it actively reduces carbon emissions from data centers, advancing sustainable computing at scale

Prototype & Technology

Our core platform is composed of three integrated components designed to connect GPU resources efficiently and securely

Our work contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), the platform optimizes renewable energy use by relocating computational workloads instead of physical power, ensuring cleaner operations. In line with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), it builds a decentralized and resilient AI infrastructure that strengthens digital capacity and innovation. Aligned with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), it maximizes resource efficiency by repurposing idle GPUs that would otherwise remain unused. Finally, through SDG 13 (Climate Action), it actively reduces carbon emissions from data centers, advancing sustainable computing at scale.

ComNergy InFlow (suanleme cn) is a lightweight client that enables GPU owners to link their devices to our network without disrupting normal usage It allows real-time earnings tracking and ensures secure task execution through hardware-level isolation

Prototype & Technology

Our core platform is composed of three integrated components designed to connect GPU resources efficiently and securely.

ComNergy OutFlow (suanli cn) serves as a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) application that lets developers deploy AI models and applications with ease It features one-click scaling, a library of pre-built models, and blockchain-based settlement mechanisms to guarantee full transparency

Our Solution: The Airbnb of Computing

ComNergy CompuTrade functions as a smart-contract-powered engine that matches GPU supply and demand in real time It maintains fair pricing, enables secure transactions, and supports the dynamic entry and exit of computing resources

Inspired by Airbnb’s success in sharing idle rooms, ComNergy created a decentralized platform that enables anyone to share their idle GPUs with AI developers in need of flexible, on-demand computing power. Our platform connects the supply of idle GPUs from individuals, internet cafés, and enterprises with the demand from AI developers, researchers, and AIGC companies.

ComNergy InFlow (suanleme.cn) is a lightweight client that enables GPU owners to link their devices to our network without disrupting normal usage. It allows real-time earnings tracking and ensures secure task execution through hardware-level isolation.

To maintain the platform’s stability and security, we rely on two main categories of technology Under stability, our load forecasting system uses dynamic feature modeling to predict demand five to fifteen minutes in advance A node-tiering mechanism continuously

ComNergy OutFlow (suanli.cn) serves as a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) application that lets developers deploy AI models and applications with ease. It features one-click scaling, a library of pre-built models, and blockchain-based settlement mechanisms to guarantee full transparency.

Figure 1 The "Impossible Triangle" of Computing Power

Figure 1. The “Impossible Triangle” of Computing Power

Figure 2 Schematic Diagram of the ComNergy Platform Architecture

Figure 2. Schematic Diagram of the ComNergy Platform Architecture

ComNergy CompuTrade functions as a smart-contract-powered engine that matches GPU supply and demand in real time. It maintains fair pricing, enables secure transactions, and supports the dynamic entry and exit of computing resources.

To maintain the platform’s stability and security, we rely on two main categories of technology. Under stability, our load forecasting system uses dynamic feature modeling to predict demand five to fifteen minutes in advance. A node-tiering mechanism continuously scores latency, bandwidth, and energy mixes to select the optimal subset of resources, while a pre-warming process—with less than five percent redundancy—prevents cold-start delays.

scores latency, bandwidth, and energy mixes to select the optimal subset of resources, while a pre-warming process with less than five percent redundancy prevents cold-start delays

Under security, tasks are fully isolated at the hardware level, preventing any cross-visibility between processes. All data transfers are encrypted end-to-end and automatically erased once a job concludes. Additionally, a double-blind routing protocol ensures that neither the scheduler nor the supplier knows the other’s identity, making targeted attacks virtually impossible.

Under security tasks are fully isolated at the hardware level preventing any cross-visibility between processes All data transfers are encrypted end-to-end and automatically erased once a job concludes Additionally, a double-blind routing protocol ensures that neither the scheduler nor the supplier knows the other s identity, making targeted attacks virtually impossible

Under security, tasks are fully isolated at the hardware level, preventing any cross-visibility between processes All data transfers are encrypted end-to-end and automatically erased once a job concludes Additionally, a double-blind routing protocol ensures that neither the scheduler nor the supplier knows the other’s identity, making targeted attacks virtually impossible

Evidence & Results

In just 14 months since launch, our platform has attracted over 700,000 GPUs, with more than 60 enterprises and 3,000 individual users actively relying on its services We have filed seven invention patents in distributed scheduling and security, facilitated GPU leasing transactions worth 8 million RMB (approximately USD 1 1 million), and prevented an estimated 10 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually by tapping into idle computing resources Our collaboration with the Qinghai provincial government on the Gang-Shu-Qing-Suan Green Computing Project demonstrated that large-scale, renewable-powered AI infrastructure is already viable managing over 8,000 petaflops across 20 data centers, fully powered by solar and wind, while achieving a 37 percent cut in carbon emissions and a 28 percent reduction in energy costs Meanwhile, during the AdventureX 2025 Hackathon we deployed a pop-up elastic cluster of 400 idle RTX 4090 GPUs within 30 minutes, enabling 40 teams to train and deploy models seamlessly The

In just 14 months since launch, our platform has attracted over 700,000 GPUs, with more than 60 enterprises and 3,000 individual users actively relying on its services. We have filed seven invention patents in distributed scheduling and security, facilitated GPU leasing transactions worth 8 million RMB (approximately USD 1.1 million), and prevented an estimated 10 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually by tapping into idle computing resources. Our collaboration with the Qinghai provincial government on the Gang-Shu-Qing-Suan Green Computing Project demonstrated that large-scale, renewablepowered AI infrastructure is already viable—managing over 8,000 petaflops across 20 data centers, fully powered by solar and wind, while achieving a 37 percent cut in carbon emissions and a 28 percent reduction in energy costs. Meanwhile, during the AdventureX 2025 Hackathon, we deployed a pop-up elastic cluster of 400 idle RTX 4090 GPUs within 30 minutes, enabling 40 teams to train and deploy models seamlessly. The event achieved zero downtime and a 70 percent cost reduction—proving that on-demand, zero-touch GPU compute can be scaled up and down instantly.

Conclusion and roadmap

Looking ahead, ComNergy aims to expand its network to one million GPUs worldwide over the next 24 months, launch mobile edge nodes to support IoT and embodied AI, and establish regional green computing hubs across Asia, Europe, and Africa. The company also plans to integrate with Web3 AI marketplaces to enable transparent model and data trading. More than a tech startup, ComNergy is a climate-tech company redefining how AI infrastructure is built, used, and shared. By transforming every idle GPU into a green building block of tomorrow’s AI, we are making artificial intelligence more affordable, sustainable, and accessible to all.

Figure 3 ComNergy InFlow Product Interface

Figure 3. ComNergy InFlow Product Interface

Figure 3 ComNergy InFlow Product Interface

Figure 4 ComNergy OutFlow Task Submission Interface

Figure 4. ComNergy OutFlow Task Submission Interface

Figure 5 ComNergy CompuTrade Schematic Diagram

Figure 5. ComNergy CompuTrade Schematic Diagram

Figure 5 ComNergy CompuTrade Schematic Diagram

Figure 6 Schematic Diagram of Platform Scheduling Strategy

Figure 6. Schematic Diagram of Platform Scheduling Strategy

AquaNovate

Innovative, low-energy, sustainable Saline Purifier

RUNZE YANG, 20598158@qq.com; YUYANG RAN, yxyhryy@163.com; LIWEI LIU, 12024235092@stu.ynu.edu.cn; YEYE LI, 2492354151@qq.com; WENYING ZHAO, zwy@ynu.edu.cn LU GUO, luguo@ynu.edu.cn

AFFILIATION: YUNNAN-MALAYA INSTITUTE (SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING), YUNNAN UNIVERSITY, 650091.

Introduction

The Sustainable Saline Purifier (SSP) is an innovative, low-energy water purification system utilizing capacitive deionization technology. Its core innovation lies in the utilization of biological waste (e.g. straw, biological residue, cigarette butts) as a key raw material for purification components. This “waste-to-value” design not only addresses municipal waste management challenges but also slashes manufacturing costs by nearly 40% compared to devices using conventional high-cost materials, enabling scalable deployment. The SSP provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution for purifying brackish water, making it a viable option for inland, energy-scarce, and impoverished regions. Its future potential for integration of water purification and waste treatment positions it as a comprehensive clean water access strategy.

It directly aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 (Climate Action) by minimizing energy-related environmental impact, while reducing long-term operational costs for end-users. Tailored for water-scarce low-resource regions, the device efficiently treats saline or low-quality water into potable water that meets basic living standards, directly contributing to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by resolving local residents’ urgent safe water access needs. Its user-friendly operation and low-maintenance cost further adapt to the technical support limitations of poor areas, ensuring sustained serviceability.

Problem Statement

Access to clean water remains a critical global challenge. It is expected that population growth, urbanization, and socio-economic development will increase the demand for industrial and domestic water in cities by 50-80% in the next thirty years [1]. Meanwhile, climate change will affect the spatial distribution and temporal availability of water resources. According to the United Nations, approximately 40% of the world’s population may face the risk of serious water scarcity by 2040[2]. Furthermore, waste pollution poses a significant environmental hazard. Communities in many areas, which are frequently energy and economic-poor, lack access to clean water. As such, a solution is urgently needed that is simultaneously low-energy, low-cost, environmentally sustainable, and effective at treating brackish water. Against this backdrop, we aim to develop a novel water treatment device to enable local residents to access clean and hygienic drinking water.

The project has 3 main objectives. First, Design and prototype a SSP, with the energy consumption target for brackish water treatment: below 1 kWh/m3. Second, build high-performance electrodes for SSP system using waste materials (cigarette butts et al) as the primary carbon source. This approach not only reduces the cost of core materials for CDI cells but also addresses waste pollution by recycling of waste. Third, assess the feasibility of deploying the aforementioned SSP system in off-grid communities, covering both technical and economic aspects. Additionally, outline a specific implementation path for integrating clean energy with this system.

A key challenge lies in the unstable quality of electrode materials derived from waste, which makes them prone to scaling over time. To address this, the process focuses on optimizing pyrolysis temperature and activation strategies to enhance specific surface area and conductivity. Additionally, the electrode materials are functionalized and coupled with the Faraday effect to improve regeneration efficiency and extend their overall service life.

Proposed Solutions and Innovations

A step-by-step purification system is formed. Raw water first passes through sedimentation-filter to remove solids, then through biochar adsorption to reduce organics, and finally enters core components for desalination and heavy metal removal, ensuring the final water meets drinking standards.

The innovation of this system is threefold. First, it achieves ultralow energy consumption—using less than 1 kWh per cubic meter when combined with energy recovery during regeneration— and operates at voltages below 1.4V, ensuring efficiency even in extreme environments. Second, it transforms waste into resourcegrade electrodes, addressing waste management challenges while significantly reducing the cost of the most expensive components in SSP systems. Third, the system is designed for off-grid use, allowing integration with external clean energy sources to enable fully sustainable operation and the potential for zero carbon emissions in the future.

The SSP system has demonstrated both technical and economic feasibility. In the laboratory, the core platform has been successfully built and tested, showing stable performance across multiple processing cycles. Its energy consumption of just 0.26 kWh per cubic meter is significantly lower than that of traditional water treatment technologies. Economically, the use of free waste materials as electrodes reduces production costs by approximately 40 percent compared to commercial alternatives, while the integration of clean energy sources eliminates the need for large-scale power consumption, making the system both cost-effective and sustainable.

Conclusion and Future Work

This project is an important step towards a sustainable and equitable paradigm for water purification. It uniquely addresses two pressing global issues - water scarcity and waste pollution through a circular solution. It provides clean water, reduces environmental waste, lowers carbon emissions through minimal energy use, and enables economically viable technologies for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

In the future, we hope to further develop a dedicated power management circuit that directly couples the system with small solar panels or wind power to achieve a truly zero carbon system.

References

[1] Garrick D, De Stefano L, Yu W, et al. Rural water for thirsty cities: a systematic review of water reallocation from rural to urban regions[J]. Environmental Research Letters, 2019, 14(4): 043003.

[2] Flörke M, Schneider C, McDonald R I. Water competition between cities and agriculture driven by climate change and urban growth[J]. Nature sustainability, 2018, 1(1): 51-58.

Picture 2. The large-scale SSP system Picture 2. The large-scale SSP system

Picture 1. The team.

Green Materials

Attaining Sustainability Development goals through green chemistry

Nanocellulose-based aerogels, hydrogels, and carbon aerogels from agricultural biomass waste using eco-friendly methods such as citric acid hydrolysis. By transforming residues like orange peels into high-value materials, the initiative tackles major environmental challenges: nanocellulose aerogels for water purification (oil spills and wastewater), hydrogels for biodegradable biofilms to replace plastics, and carbon aerogels for CO₂ capture to mitigate climate change.

MARIA

BABY, MAHA SALEEM ALLIANCE UNIVERSITY, INDIA BMARIAPHD724@SCI.ALLIANCE.EDU.IN SMAHAPHD724@SCI.ALLIANCE.EDU.IN

Introduction

The 21st century has witnessed the depletion of more than half of earth’s resources due to the over exploitation by humankind. Ever since, the researchers all over the world focus on actions towards achieving sustainability to restore our ecosystem. The core area of this research aligns with the SDGs in three different approaches. The valorization of biomass wastes has ensured the SDG 15 -Life on land & SDG-14 Life Below Water. The extraction of nanocellulose from biomass wastes through a green chemical approach promises green chemistry principles. Substituting the conventional plastic for food packaging with eco-friendly biodegradable films is a remarkable achievement in the food packaging industry. The synthesis of nanocellulose aerogels for oil-water purification finds a solution towards oil spillage in oceans protecting life under water which contribute to SDG-14 Life Below Water &SDG-6 Clean Water and Sanitation. Foreseeing the consequences of global warming the reduction of carbon dioxide which is a major contributor towards it has to be controlled. Nanocellulose carbon aerogel -the porous material can capture carbon dioxide to a great extent. SDG-13 Climate Action can be advanced through climate mitigation by nanocellulose carbon aerogels. This work aligns with four SDGs- SDG-6 Clean Water, SDG13 Climate Action SDG-14 Life Below Water, 15-Life on land which promises a sustainable future.

Problem

“While urban smog hogs the headlines, India’s villages silently bear the toxic burden of biomass fires, stubble burning and industrial neglect’’. Burning of biomass which includes agricultural residues, firewood and industrial biomass wastes is a major contributor of greenhouse gases. According to the Birdlife Europe Report Burning wood for heat emits more CO2 than coal. The release of greenhouse gases from burning of biomass results in global warming which is responsible for global climate change.

“Packaging waste tops plastic pollution in high biodiversity zone stretches of Ganga”- Deccan Chronicle. 52.4% of the total water pollutants are packaging wastes comprising food wrappers, single-use sachets and plastic bags. The world indeed needs a plastic conventional treaty because the crisis is getting out of hand - and people are frankly outraged. According to UNEP the plastic production and waste is expected to project to triple by 2060 causing significant threat. Plastic endangers every corner of the planet, it threatens ecosystems, wildlife and human health.

The estimated amount of microplastic through ingestion and inhalation by an average person is over 50000 plastic particles each year. “Russia suffering environmental catastrophe after oil spill in Kerch strait”BBC. The high resolution satellite photos reviewed by BBC showed a massive oil slick running through the strait, measuring at least 25km (15 miles) long. A second, smaller slick measuring around 5.7km (3.5 miles) long due to the accidental leakage of oil from two ships which ran into trouble during bad weather. India rushes to contain oil spill as vessel sinks off Kerala Coast-Accidental oil spills in the ocean risks, marine ecosystems to the local fishing industry. Summarizing, if the climate crisis goes unaddressed with plastic pollution as a major driver air pollution level exceeding safe thresholds could rise by 50% within a decade. Meanwhile, plastic pollution in marine and fresh water environments may triple by 2040.

Solution

The valorization of biomass wates for sustainable applications reduces the possible pollutions that is caused due to the burning and piling up of biomass. The extraction of nanocellulose which possess excellent thermal, mechanical and chemical characteristics through a green chemical approach-Citric Acid Hydrolysis is one among the innovative part of this work. The nanocellulose is utilised to develop biofilms which serve as an alternative to conventional plastics in food packaging, nanocellulose aerogels crosslinked with chitosan and genipin for oil water purification, nanocellulose carbon aerogel for carbon dioxide capture which is a prime driver towards global warming.

Description of Prototype

Extraction of nanocellulose through green approach: Extraction of nanocellulose from orange peel by alkaline pretreatment with sodium hydroxide, bleaching with hydrogen peroxide, acid hydrolysis with green acid-citric acid followed by ultrasonication.

Development of biofilms from nanocellulose hydrogel: Biofilm with uniform thickness was developed from nanocellulose hydrogel by solvent casting method. The biodegradable food packaging films improves the shelf life of the food as nanocellulose exhibits good barrier properties, and in combination with antimicrobial or antioxidants it preserves the freshness of the food.

Synthesis of nanocellulose aerogel by freezedrying: Nanocelluose hydrogel was crosslinked with chitosan and genipin to yield nanocellulose chitosan genipin crosslinked aerogel with higher mechanical and chemical properties, The hydrophilic surface acts as a membrane for oil water separation which finds applications in purification of oceans during oil spillage.

Development of nanocellulose carbon aerogel: The uncross linked aerogel was carbonised in muffle furnace and activated to yield highly porous nanocellulose carbon aerogel which function as a precursor for carbon capture. The porous structure which includes mesopores and micropores captures carbon dioxide.

Value Proposition

Starting up from biomass wastes having zero cost to four different high value added products with numerous applications. The green method of synthesis follows the principles of green chemistry that ultimately leads to sustainable products aligning with SDGs- SDG-6 Clean Water, SDG-13 Climate Action SDG-14 Life Below Water, 15 -Life on land. Making use of the idea generated in lab scale the logging residues that are piled up in amazon rain forests which is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions can be recycled to value added products similar to the one with orange peels.

Conclusion

The pressing global environment challenges demand sustainable solutions. Replacing plastics with biodegradable films, capturing carbon dioxide, valorisation of biomass and water purification reducing plastic pollution, combat climate change, promote waste to wealth strategy that supports circular economy and ensuring resource efficiency and protect ecosystems promising a healthier planet for future generation. In a future perspective, nanocellulose can be extracted from diverse sources and can be utilized for various sustainable applications.

Figure 1. Extraction and synthesis of nanocellulose Aerogel

nanocellulose can be extracted from diverse sources and can be utilized for

sustainable applications.

Photos:

Figure 1. Extraction and synthesis of nanocellulose Aerogel

FACTFLOW

Our Climate, Our Call is a guidebook for university and secondary school to learn about climate and weather

Team Factflow

Attaining Sustainability Development goals through green chemistry

Team Members:

Student-friendly guidebook that simplifies weather, climate, and planetary health into a format that students can relate to, learn and enjoy reading. .

Akinboyewa Okikioluwa Alicia - akinboyewaokiki@gmail.com

Moronkeji Babatunde - bmoronkeji7@gmail.com

Folorunsho Tolulope - tolulopefolorunsho234@gmail.com

Obiduba Daniella - daniellaobiduba@gmail.com

Asanbe Lydia

AKINBOYEWA OKIKIOLUWA ALICIA - AKINBOYEWAOKIKI@GMAIL.COM

MORONKEJI BABATUNDE - BMORONKEJI7@GMAIL.COM

FOLORUNSHO TOLULOPE - TOLULOPEFOLORUNSHO234@GMAIL.COM

University of Lagos Problem

OBIDUBA DANIELLA - DANIELLAOBIDUBA@GMAIL.COM

ASANBE LYDIA

UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS

Problem

Climate change is an escalating global crisis with far-reaching consequences. In Nigeria and across the world, youth are among the most vulnerable to its impacts, yet often the least informed. Despite being highly active on social platforms and engaged in global discourse, young people lack consistent access to educational resources that simplify scientific climate knowledge. Existing climate materials are often complex, targeted at older or more specialized audiences, and sometimes fail to address the immediate local realities that students face.

can contribute meaningfully to climate action in their communities. Through this project, we aim to improve climate literacy among secondary and university students by using visual storytelling and youth-centered language to make complex ideas accessible and engaging. By promoting science-based facts and concepts, the initiative seeks to counter misinformation while inspiring confidence and climate leadership in young people. Ultimately, it contributes to advancing both national and global goals related to climate awareness and collective action.

Solution & Detailed Description

Our solution is the creation of a comprehensive, youth-friendly climate education guide titled Our Climate, Our Call. This guidebook is designed specifically for secondary school and university students in Nigeria (and adaptable globally). It presents scientific concepts through illustrations, analogies, personal stories, and infographics that young people can relate to.

Additionally, misinformation and climate denialism are spreading widely online. Without proper tools to identify credible sources or understand climate science, many young people find themselves disengaged or misinformed. The disconnection between available scientific knowledge and accessible youth education is a critical barrier to progress. If students do not understand the climate crisis or feel empowered to act, their potential as climate advocates and changemakers remains untapped.

Our own surveys and discussions with students revealed just how deep this problem runs. Many had heard of climate change but struggled to explain key concepts like greenhouse gases, global warming, or how climate differs from weather. Others expressed frustration that what little they did learn about the environment came in isolated school lessons with no real-life applications.

Aim

What makes our solution stand out is its format and delivery. Instead of lectures or passive text, our book invites active learning and reflection. Each chapter combines storytelling with science, prompting discussion and encouraging action.

Aim

Our primary aim is to bridge the gap between climate science and student understanding through an accessible, engaging, and relatable guidebook designed by and for young people. The guidebook — Our Climate, Our Call — will provide foundational knowledge on climate and weather, debunk common myths, and highlight how young people

Our primary aim is to bridge the gap between climate science and student understanding through an accessible, engaging, and relatable guidebook designed by and for young people. The guidebook Our Climate, Our Call will provide foundational knowledge on climate and

The book is structured around six engaging chapters that guide young readers through the science and action of climate change. Chapter 1, “Our Changing Planet,” introduces the fundamentals of climate science, exploring both human and natural causes and their impact on global systems. Chapter 2, “Weather vs. Climate,” uses simple analogies and everyday examples to help students distinguish between the two concepts. Chapter 3, “Climate in Our Communities,”highlights local case studies from across Nigeria and other African regions facing droughts, floods, and heatwaves. Chapter 4, “Climate Myths, Busted,” visually debunks common misconceptions through scientific evidence and insights from meteorologists. Chapter 5, “Youth Power,” showcases inspiring stories of youth-led climate action worldwide, encouraging students in Nigeria to take part through clean-up drives and school green clubs. Finally, Chapter 6, “What You Can Do,” offers practical guidance on advocacy, sustainable habits, and ways to launch local climate initiatives within schools and communities.

The book will be distributed in both print and digital form, and can be used in classrooms, clubs, and by individuals. It includes infographics, cartoons, icons, and illustrations customized for Nigerian youth. Each chapter ends with reflection prompts or simple activity ideas to turn learning into practice.

Our surveys showed that over 70% of respondents preferred learning through stories, comics, and infographics, and that over 68% would welcome a resource like this. By directly responding to these needs, our guide is poised to make a meaningful impact.

Prototype Description

We have developed a full-color book cover, sample page layouts, and a detailed outline for the guide. Each section begins with a story or relatable scenario, followed by a clear explanation of the topic using simplified language and engaging graphics. Every chapter concludes with a “Think + Act” section that offers practical suggestions and small action steps to encourage participation. The cover design and chapter structure are already completed, while draft content, quotes, illustrations, and infographics are currently in progress. The book title has been finalized as Our Climate, Our Call, and the team is now working toward completing a full sample chapter for pilot testing in schools, in collaboration with educators and environmental organizations.

climate education in the face of misinformation and accelerating climate change. Finally, it is action-oriented, aiming not only to inform but also to empower young people to transform knowledge into local impact. The project is SDG-aligned, supporting SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through meaningful youth engagement.

Conclusion and Next Steps

FactFlow’s Our Climate, Our Call project represents more than just a book, it’s a movement toward accessible, youth-centered climate education. By simplifying complex environmental concepts through relatable stories and visuals, we aim to equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and confidence to act on climate issues within their schools and communities.

Value Proposition

Our value proposition is centered on creating a youth-centered resource that is co-created by students, ensuring the content and style truly resonate with its intended audience. It is engaging and visual, using stories, comics, infographics, and local imagery to simplify scientific content and make it easier to remember. The guide is scalable and customizable, designed to be translated, adapted for local relevance, or integrated into different school curricula. It is also timely and urgent, addressing the growing need for accurate and engaging

Value Proposition

Moving forward, our team is committed to expanding the project beyond the guidebook. We plan to continue refining the content, building new partnerships, and organizing outreach programs in both public and private schools. These outreach activities will serve as interactive platforms where students can learn, ask questions, and connect with the message behind Our Climate, Our Call.

We also plan to collaborate with Clim8core, a youth-led organization focused on climate and deforestation awareness. Together, we aim to merge our efforts to build a broader, unified network that fosters environmental literacy and collective action among young people.

Ultimately, FactFlow seeks to inspire a generation of informed and empowered youth who see climate action not as an abstract concept, but as a shared responsibility. Through continued collaboration, innovation, and education, we hope to make Our Climate, Our Call a lasting tool for change in Nigeria and beyond.

Our value proposition is centered on creating a youth-centered students, ensuring the content and style truly resonate with and visual, using stories, comics, infographics, and local and make it easier to remember The guide is scalable and customizable, designed to be translated, adapted for local relevance, or integrated into different school curricula. It is also timely and urgent, addressing the growing need for accurate and engaging climate education in the face of misinformation and accelerating climate change. Finally, it is action-oriented, aiming not only to inform but also to empower young people to transform knowledge into local impact.

Image 1. Bookcover

Guidebook for university and secondary school students to learn about climate and weather

Regional Insights for Sustainable Empowerment (RISE)

Unlocking Potential through Collaboration, Data and Transparency

A digital accountability platform that helps communities and youths track, verify, and share real-time data on aid-funded projects. This promotes transparency, trust, and sustainable development across Africa.

BENARD PHABIAN ODOYO (phabianbenard2019@gmail.com)

NOLDAH ADHIAMBO (adhiambonoldah@lohms.org)

LARRY OKUMU (adholalarry@gmail.com)

BLESSING MUMO (blessingmutinda8@gmail.com)

DR. CEDRIC OKINDA (cokinda@mmust.ac.ke)

GILO BYRON (gilobyron32@gmail.com)

Introduction

The Regional Insight for Sustainable Empowerment (RISE) is a youthdriven initiative aimed at tackling issues of trust, transparency, and accountability in Official Development Assistance (ODA). It is based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). RISE enables local communities and youth to take part in monitoring development projects. Its mission is to ensure aid results in real improvements in healthcare, education, livelihoods, and governance, leading to sustainable empowerment.

Problem

Despite many years of ODA support in Africa, transparency and accountability remain weak. Donors and citizens rarely have access to real-time, verifiable data on how aid is allocated, and corruption or mismanagement often prevents funds from reaching the people who need them most. As a result, trust in aid systems continues to erode. Many projects are still designed from the top down, excluding the voices of the communities they aim to serve. Youth, who make up over 60% of Africa’s population, are often disconnected from decisionmaking processes, leaving their potential untapped. Recent aid cuts from donors such as USAID have also worsened vulnerabilities in areas like health and education. Together, these ongoing issues make aid less effective and threaten the long-term sustainability of development efforts.

Solution

RISE is a web and mobile-friendly digital platform that connects communities, donors, and organizations in one transparent ecosystem. Through its key features, users can explore ongoing and upcoming projects, share their own community priorities to attract funding, and track progress in real time with visible milestones and outcomes. The platform also includes a news and updates section for transparent storytelling of impact, and an AI-powered report generator that produces verified reports for donors and governments. Its Android app enables real-time video, photo, and report submissions directly from communities, ensuring that voices on the ground are heard. By combining participation with data transparency, RISE transforms youth from passive recipients into active advocates for accountability.

Description of Prototype

The RISE prototype integrates a responsive web platform with a mobile application designed to enhance transparency and participation in community development. Its technical foundation includes a cloudhosted backend that ensures scalability and data security, real-time media uploads for evidence-based reporting, automated dashboards for project tracking and donor analytics, and AI-powered verification tools to minimize bias and validate information.

During prototype testing, RISE engaged more than 200 youth volunteers across multiple counties to gather user feedback. It was piloted through community health initiatives with LOHMS and education projects in partnership with MMUST, successfully generating initial verified reports that improved donor confidence and project visibility. Early adoption by five local NGOs demonstrates the platform’s potential, with a target to reach over 10,000 youth participants within three years. The system is projected to produce more than 100 verified annual reports, contributing to an estimated 20 percent reduction in mismanagement cases.

Value Proposition

RISE offers clear value to every stakeholder in the development process. For communities, it provides ownership, visibility, and a voice in shaping the projects that affect their lives. For youth, it creates opportunities to lead in accountability, develop new skills, and actively participate in change. Donors and governments benefit from reliable, independently verified, real-time data to inform better decision-making, while organizations gain greater visibility and a stronger chance to attract funding through transparent reporting. Unlike traditional monitoring systems, RISE places youth at the center, leverages technology, and promotes active participation—making it a scalable model for transparency and impact across Africa.

Conclusion

The urgent challenges of aid cuts, corruption, and weak transparency demand an immediate and sustainable solution — and RISE provides exactly that. By creating a scalable accountability system where communities and youth take an active role in shaping the future of ODA, RISE redefines how development is monitored and shared. The next steps include expanding the platform across Kenya to engage over 10,000 youth and 200 organizations within the first two years, followed by regional growth into five African countries within five years. To ensure long-term sustainability, RISE will develop donor subscriptions, premium analytics, and partnerships with governments, while also launching the RISE Transparency Awards to celebrate accountability across the continent. By making aid inclusive, transparent, and youth-centered, RISE aims to set a new benchmark for sustainable development in Africa.

Picture 1. Prototype

Picture 2. The team

Community-Based Action Plan for T1D Children

A community action plan to ensure insulin continuity for children with Type 1 Diabetes during emergencies.

A community-based action-plan that connects families, Lebanese Red Cross (LRC) staff, and safe storage sites to ensure insulin continuity during emergencies.

ANDREAS BATTISTINI (DTU, andr9100@gmail.com)

ANNIKEN HØEG HALVORSEN (UCPH, anniken.hoeeg.halvorsen@gmail.com)

OLIVER CLAES ØSTERGAARD (UCPH, xbs548@alumni.ku.dk)

HELEN HARIG (UHEI, harighelen@gmail.com)

TONY ALNASRI (UHEI, tonyalnasri@gmail.com)

Intro

In humanitarian crises, children with T1D face an immediate risk of death if insulin treatment is interrupted. Insulin must be stored between 2–8 °C, but war often destroys the systems that maintain this cold chain. Power outages, damaged infrastructure, and restricted movement quickly make safe insulin storage and access unattainable.

Since October 2023, southern Lebanon has endured continuous Israeli attacks. Hospitals and clinics have been destroyed, health workers displaced, and over 1.4 million people forced from their homes. The Lebanese Red Cross (LRC), only able to enter high-risk zones with ambulances, struggles to maintain services amid communication blackouts following “Operation Grim Beeper.”

Our project responds to this urgent gap in the first 60 days. We propose a scalable community-based action plan that empowers caregivers, connects families with LRC staff, and establishes safe storage sites chosen by the community itself. By preparing families before disaster and providing a clear framework once conflict erupts, the project advances SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).

The Problem

How can continuity of care for children with Type 1 Diabetes be maintained during the first 60 days of conflict in Lebanon’s Red Zones?

The escalation in Lebanon caused a healthcare collapse, leaving over 3.2 million people in need of aid. For children with T1DM, the consequences were life-threatening:

• Supply chain disruption: insulin and essential equipment unavailable.

• No refrigeration: 88% of patients lost access to cooling, threatening insulin stability.

• Unprepared caregivers: Families lacked training and resources for emergency care.

• Communication breakdown: fear of electronic devices and unstable networks hindered coordination.

• Restricted access: Only LRC ambulances could enter Red Zones.

Current diabetes care is concentrated in safe zones and online networks. Emergency strategies prioritize trauma and infectious disease, while chronic illnesses remain largely overlooked. What is missing is a child-centred, community-based model for diabetes care that equips caregivers directly and remains feasible in insecure areas.

Solution

Our solution turns preparedness into practical action through community meetings, mapping, and an Insulin Action Kit.

Community Meeting (Preparedness Phase)

Moderated by LRC staff and guided by a T1D-specific checklist (figure 1), each meeting covers:

• Caregiver capacity: Insulin use, ketone testing, ketoacidosis warning signs, sick-day rules, local diet guidance.

• Communication: Together decide upon safe and trusted channels when networks are unstable.

• Storage and logistics: Generator-powered storage, collection methods, expiry monitoring, and low-tech cooling (e.g. clay pots, running water).

• Identification and tracking: Child registration, bracelet ID verification, and incident reporting.

• Mobility and displacement: Kits and records for when families are forced to move.

Gold Award

For each topic, families are given practical options and adapt them to their local reality.

A community map supports this process, combining a register of T1DM families with all working generators in southern Lebanon. Families choose secure storage points—mosques, churches, or other trusted sites—they feel safe using.

Insulin Action Kit

Each family receives a kit (figure 2) containing insulin, testing supplies, dextrose, protective equipment, pictocards with instructions, childfriendly guidance, wartime dietary advice, and the community’s tailored action plan and map. (WHO 2022; The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 2023; Weill Cornell Pediatrics Guidebook, 2022).

Phase 2 – Crisis Response (First 60 Days)

Families draw on the kit from day one. The action plan and map guide storage access and collection responsibilities. LRC trauma ambulances resupply storage points and maintain access in red zones. LRC also resupply storage points outside of red zones. Together, these elements create a clear 60-day pathway linking families, caregivers, and LRC support.

Prototype

Based on consultations with the LRC, original research, and recent medical literature, we developed a prototype Insulin Action Kit for families with T1D children in conflict zones. Each kit includes:

• Map with marked storage points and family locations

• Child ID bracelet

• Insulin

• Dextrose

• Testing equipment

• Personal protective equipment

Evidence shows insulin can remain stable at room temperature for up to one month (Pendsey et al., 2023), enhancing the kit’s resilience under unstable conditions.

Estimated cost: USD 375 per kit (lifecycle). With donations or pooled procurement, this can be reduced to USD 100. To prevent misuse, kits can be distributed in bulk and tracked through community registries.

Value proposition

Our model creates unique value for both families and responders:

• COMMUNITY-OWNED: Trusted local networks drive action and sustain preparedness.

• CHILD-CENTERED: Brings care as close to the child as possible, empowering caregivers.

• FLEXIBLE: Adaptable to other NCDs, contexts, and crisis settings.

• TECHNOLOGICALLY FEASIBLE: Relies on existing cold-chain methods and generator systems.

• INNOVATIVE: Applies new evidence on insulin thermostability to expand planning options.

For families, the solution means security and clarity: they know where insulin is stored, how to access it, and how to manage emergencies. For the LRC, it means efficiency and trust: communities are prepared, reducing strain on fragile facilities and enabling safer operations.

Conclusion

The crisis in Lebanon shows that chronic illness care cannot rely on fragile, centralized systems. By shifting preparedness into communities, our model strengthens resilience, equips caregivers, and secures insulin access when conventional structures fail. It offers not only an immediate solution for children with T1D in conflict zones but also a scalable, sustainable framework for NCD care in humanitarian crises worldwide—advancing SDG 3.

References:

Noncommunicable Diseases Kit (NCDK) 2022. (n.d.). https://www.who.int/emergencies/ emergency-health-kits/non-communicable-diseases-kit-2022 Pendsey, Sanket, et al. “Insulin Thermostability in a Real-World Setting.” The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, Mar. 2023, https://doi.org/10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00028-1. The Weill Cornell Medicine Diabetes Team. (n.d.). Guidebook for Children and Adolescents with Diabetes.

Wetlands4Wellness SDG Summer School Project

Community-driven initiative that integrates Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) to restore Ondiri Wetland.

Wetlands4Wellness is a youth-led, community-driven project focused on restoring the Ondiri Wetland in Kiambu County, Kenya, by integrating Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) with Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). The initiative tackles wetland degradation, biodiversity loss, poor water quality, and related public health risks caused by urbanization and unsustainable land use. Through ecological restoration, agroforestry, riparian greening, and cultural conservation practices, the project strengthens climate resilience, improves water and food security, and reduces disease risks. Its outputs include a multimedia casebook, info brief, restoration maps, and educational toolkits, developed in collaboration with local communities.

KELVIN MULI, EGERTON UNIVERSITY, kelvinmuli57@gmail.com

FAITH CHINAZA, UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-AFRICA, chinazangwoke@gmail.com

CLARA BERNARD MUSHI, 3UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-AFRICA, claramushi5678@gmail.com

SAMUEL MOGIRE, 3UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-AFRICA, samuelmogire119@gmail.com

Introduction

The Wetlands4Wellness project was conceptualized and implemented during the SDG Summer School in Kenya under the mentorship of the Albatross Initiative. Ondiri Wetland, located in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, is Kenya’s only highland bog and the source of the Nairobi River. Despite its ecological importance, the wetland is under severe threat due to urban encroachment, pollution, and the erosion of traditional conservation practices. This project brought together young leaders from United States International University – Africa (USIU) and Egerton University to co-create a holistic solution with the Ondiri community. By combining science, culture, and innovation, the team sought to restore ecological functions, improve community health, and contribute to global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Project Overview and Relevance to the SDGs

This project contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing interconnected social and environmental priorities. It supports SDG 1 (No Poverty) through improved livelihoods generated by agroforestry and ecosystem services, and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by enhancing food security through sustainable agricultural practices. It advances SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by reducing disease vectors and improving air and water quality, and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through the restoration of freshwater systems. The initiative also aligns with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting green infrastructure and sustainable urban planning, and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by implementing nature-based adaptation strategies. Finally, it contributes to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by protecting aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity, reinforcing a holistic approach to sustainability.

The main goals of Wetlands4Wellness are to restore the Ondiri Wetland through community-driven, nature-based interventions and to revitalize Indigenous Knowledge Systems in environmental management. The project also seeks to strengthen eco-literacy and public awareness, enhance community resilience to climate-related risks, and influence environmental policy through participatory knowledge-sharing.