World Water Challenge 2025: International Competition Offers Cash Prizes and Trip to Korea The Ministry of Environment of Korea, in collaboration with the Korea Water Forum, has announced the World Water Challenge 2025, an international competition seeking innovative solutions to global water-related problems. The competition is open to individuals and organizations worldwide and offers significant rewards, including cash prizes, a trophy, and a fully funded trip to Korea for the finalists.

Addressing Global Water Issues Through Innovation Recognizing the critical importance of water for survival and sustainable development, the World Water Challenge aims to foster innovative approaches to address pressing water challenges. The competition encourages participants to develop and submit solutions that are unique, effective, and address specific local or global water issues.

Fully Funded Trip to Korea and Prestigious Awards Up to ten selected proposals will be invited to participate in the Korea International Water Week (KIWW), a prominent event that brings together water experts and stakeholders from around the world. The host organization will cover all expenses for the finalists, including airfare and accommodation. During KIWW, finalists will have the opportunity to present their solutions to a panel of judges. The awards ceremony, scheduled for November 13-14, 2025, in Daegu, Korea, will recognize the most outstanding contributions.

Award Categories and Prizes

"THE BEST" Award: The winner will receive a cash prize of 10,000,000 KRW (approximately $7,500 USD). "OUTSTANDING" Awards: Two winners will each receive a cash prize of 3,000,000 KRW (approximately $2,250 USD).

In addition to the cash prize, the winner of "THE BEST" award will also be invited to participate and speak at the World Water Challenge Hub (WWCH) in 2026, providing a platform to further promote their solution and contribute to the global water dialogue.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Innovation in Water Management Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in water resource management at the University of California, Berkeley, emphasizes the significance of such initiatives. "The World Water Challenge plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and collaboration in the water sector. By providing a platform for individuals and organizations to showcase their solutions, the competition accelerates the development and implementation of effective strategies to address water scarcity, pollution, and other pressing challenges. The cash prizes and the opportunity to participate in KIWW also serve as a strong incentive for researchers and practitioners to dedicate their efforts to finding sustainable solutions."

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process The World Water Challenge 2025 is open to individuals and organizations from all countries. The solutions submitted must be original and developed within the past 10 years. Participants are encouraged to submit solutions that fall within the designated categories of the WWCH. Previous participants and winners are welcome to participate with new and different ideas. Multiple submissions from the same individual or organization are allowed, provided that each solution is distinct.

Application Instructions

Submit proposals through the online submission system. Email submissions will not be accepted. Sign up with your email address and password. Log in with these details. Fill out all solutions in English using the provided Solution Submission Template. Mention the title of your solution. Enter your details in the Solution Provider Information section. Fill in your solution information. Write a summary of your solution. Write the solution description according to the instructions mentioned. Upload the required/supporting documents. Submit a graphical abstract, including a schematic diagram, picture, or animation, as a separate file. Complete and submit your application form.

Required Documents

Solution Submission Template Additional supporting documents (articles, background information, publications, reports, videos, photos, or any other relevant material) CV Passport

Historical Context: The Evolution of Global Water Initiatives The World Water Challenge builds upon a long history of international efforts to address water-related challenges. The United Nations has been at the forefront of these efforts, with initiatives such as the International Decade for Action, "Water for Life" (2005-2015), and Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. The World Water Challenge complements these broader initiatives by focusing on identifying and promoting innovative solutions that can contribute to achieving SDG 6 and other water-related goals.

Deadline and Further Information The deadline for submitting proposals is July 25, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official website for detailed information on the competition guidelines, application procedures, and required documents.

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