KAUST has been selected as an official nominator for The Earthshot Prize, an environmental initiative founded by Prince William and Sir David Attenborough. The prize will award £1 million each to five winners annually from 2021 to 2030, focusing on solutions for environmental challenges. KAUST is one of 41 universities and the sole representative from Saudi Arabia among the nominators. Why it matters: This partnership positions KAUST as a key player in identifying and promoting innovative environmental solutions within the region and globally, aligning with Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.
KAUST and Japan's NHK have signed an agreement for NHK to film the Red Sea in 8K high-definition as part of the "Deep Ocean" documentary series. The filming will be coordinated with researchers from KAUST's Red Sea Research Center, covering a range of subjects from coral reefs to deep-sea brine pools. The collaboration, initiated in 2019, was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Why it matters: This partnership will showcase the Red Sea's unique biodiversity and KAUST's marine research capabilities to a global audience, highlighting Saudi Arabia's focus on environmental research and its Red Sea giga-projects.
Fred Davies from Texas A&M University spoke at KAUST about the challenges of feeding the world's growing population. The keynote address was part of KAUST's Enrichment in the Fall program. Davies discussed the growing needs and problems related to global food production. Why it matters: Such discussions at KAUST can help foster research and innovation in agricultural technologies relevant to Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
KAUST and the National Center for Wildlife (NCW) have signed an MoU to collaborate on research and environmental initiatives. The collaboration aims to protect ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and enhance community awareness, formalized at the UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh. The MoU includes joint scientific research, genetic diversity projects, databases, community awareness campaigns, volunteer programs, and ecosystem monitoring. Why it matters: The partnership demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with Vision 2030 and the Green Saudi Initiative.
Carlos Duarte, a professor of Marine Science at KAUST, discusses climate change adaptation and mitigation. He was interviewed outside the KAUST Museum of Science and Technology. The interview is part of a Frontiers Research Topic on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's focus on addressing climate change through scientific research and its engagement with international platforms like Frontiers.
Lewis Dartnell, professor of science communication at the University of Westminster, spoke at KAUST about how to rebuild the world after an apocalyptic scenario. Dartnell is the author of "The Knowledge: How to Rebuild our World from Scratch." The Enrichment in the Fall lecture took place on October 17. Why it matters: Public lectures at KAUST contribute to knowledge dissemination and engagement with global challenges.
KAUST Professor Carlos Duarte has been appointed to the Scientific Committee of Extreme E, an electric SUV racing series. Duarte's expertise in marine ecosystems and Red Sea ecology will advise Extreme E, especially concerning its Saudi Arabian Desert X Prix. Extreme E aims to raise awareness of climate change impacts in endangered environments and promote electric vehicle adoption. Why it matters: This appointment brings KAUST's ecological expertise to a global platform focused on sustainability, aligning regional research with international environmental initiatives.
Dr. David Edwards from Harvard University spoke at KAUST about creativity in innovative communities. He believes that we are at the dawn of a grassroots renaissance in the arts, sciences and engineering. Edwards highlighted the importance of learning, experimentation, and production centers in fostering innovation. Why it matters: This talk suggests KAUST is looking to foster a cross-disciplinary culture of innovation, aligning with broader trends in AI and technology development that require diverse skill sets.