• Charles Sturt University supporting Bridge Hub 2020 Water Challenge, which is asking for solutions to solve country’s biggest water problems

Water is one of Australia’s most precious resources and recent droughts and competing water needs have highlighted the nation needs urgent solutions to address increasing water challenges.

Charles Sturt University is a proud supporter of Bridge Hub, a regionally-based innovation hub which aims to benefit the Australian and global AgriFood Tech industry.

The University is encouraging its staff and students, and those living and working in our communities, to provide their input for the Bridge Hub 2020 Water Challenge.

The challenge aims to identity and implement research and new technology that will assist us to better use this precious resource in agriculture, the environment, and food manufacturing.

Before the challenge officially launches, organisers are looking for suggestions on the water problems that most need solving.

Charles Sturt Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Michael Friend said engaging the community, especially staff and students who have experience in the field, will help pinpoint opportunities for innovation.

“Water is one of the country’s most precious resources and is the lifeblood for industries and leisure activities in regional Australia,” he said.

“Charles Sturt University is already conducting world-class research through the Institute for Land, Water and Society and the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation to improve water-use efficiency for sustainable agriculture and for the environment.

“We’re pleased to be able to support an initiative like the Bridge Hub 2020 Water Challenge that aims to identify and commercialise innovative approaches to increase water productivity and profitability.”

The problems submitted will form the basis for the 2020 Water Challenge, where researchers, start-ups, and students will identify solutions and how to commercialise them.

Problems can be submitted via the Bridge Hub website by Sunday 3 May.

The four most compelling problems submitted will each receive a $1,000 prize.