The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST) together with the Institute of Applied Sciences (IAS) collaborated with the Energy and Water Agency (EWA) and the University of Malta (UoM) to organise a hackathon with the theme, ‘Connecting the Drops – Circular Water Management for Urban Greening’.

The hackathon was led by two Dutch experts who work with the ‘POVE Water’ project, an Erasmus Plus project that the College is participating in.

The hackathon, spread over a day and a half, involved an interactive workshop for students. MCAST students following advanced diplomas and degrees in Environmental Sustainability, Horticulture, Chemical Technology, Environmental Health and Sustainable Technologies at the Institute of Applied Sciences participated in the hackathon.

The event, provided the perfect opportunity for students and recent graduates to meet and learn from individuals working for various government agencies within the water and urban greening sectors.  Activities held during the event helped students explore being part of a multidisciplinary team working on a practical challenge to integrate rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse for urban greening.

During the hackathon participants were divided into groups, composed of students with different academic backgrounds, and presented with a challenge, which they needed to provide solutions for and eventually pitch their ideas before a panel of judges.

Team building sessions were held prior to presenting the challenge enabling students to integrate well together. Each group was be guided by a mentor assisting students to consolidate their ideas and pitch them properly.

Other local experts were invited to present technologies or innovative projects on Circular Water Management and Urban Greening.  Guest speakers from Water Services Corporation, Ambjent Malta, Environmental Health, Parks Malta, Environmental Resources Authority and Energy and Water Agency also participated in this event.