Embark on a journey of creativity and competition, where technology meets environmental responsibility, to redefine the future of electronic waste management, fostering a cycle of renewal and innovation in the tech world.
In a decisive move to counteract the growing e-waste crisis, Element14 has partnered with Microchip to unveil the “Upcycle IoT” Design Challenge. The initiative urges the vast community to transform outdated or malfunctioning electronic items into inventive Internet of Things (IoT) projects, giving them a new lease of life.
A group of 20 visionaries will be selected to participate in this event, each receiving a company’s SAM E51 Curiosity Nano and a series of MikroE click boards. These resources will empower them to revitalise ageing hardware with IoT functionalities or infuse a fresh lease of life into inoperative control boards, ushering them into the realm of upcycling while competing for rewards. The company highlighted the problem of electronic waste globally exceeding 50 million metric tons annually. This initiative not only fosters education about upcycling but also aids in decreasing the yearly e-waste footprint.
Participants are encouraged to explore boundless possibilities, envisioning projects such as refurbishing a faulty washing machine with IoT technology to alert users upon cycle completion, installing a remote alert system on a child’s electric scooter, restoring dysfunctional laboratory equipment to connect to IoT data platforms, or modernising an old air conditioning unit with smart functionalities accessible via smartphone apps.
The race begins with the application window opening on 8th September and closing on 29th September. Chosen enthusiasts will have until 12th December 2023 to submit their revolutionary projects, accompanied by at least five blog entries detailing their journey. A significant prize awaits the victors of this challenge: The top contender will receive a premium solar generator and a complementary 100W solar panel. The individual securing the second place will be gifted a portable power station. At the same time, all participants will be recognised with a special finisher prize, a wall-mounted can crusher, to acknowledge their dedication to fostering a sustainable future.
