econext and the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) have partnered with the Ocean Startup Project to design and promote three challenges for its 2022 Ocean Startup Challenge.
The Ocean Startup Challenge helps turn entrepreneurial ideas or technology into a wave of opportunity! For 2022, the Ocean Startup Challenge is focusing on idea/early stage ocean startups with a TRL of 4 and below, and supporting innovators who are leveraging Canadian ocean assets and capabilities to develop technologies that can be applied to global ocean problems.
Winning teams will receive up to $40,000 in awards, with invaluable business development supports with programming, mentorship, one-on-one sessions with our Executives-in-Residence and industry experts, networking opportunities and more, as part of the program, which runs until March 2023.
Challenge:
Develop a technology and/or process that allows for finding value in or alternative disposal methods for plastic wastes associated with aquaculture operations.
Aquaculture is among the fastest-growing food sectors in the world, accounting for more than 50 per cent of the world’s total seafood production. Increased production also impacts the volume of plastics to be recycled or responsibly disposed of, from harvesting and production processes. Plastic waste is the biggest waste challenge in the aquaculture sector, particularly feedbags. Lack of recycling capacity in rural areas, as well as Tipping fees and transportation costs are considerations, with landfill operators also keen to find alternative solutions. Beyond feedbags, other plastic wastes have to be managed by the sector. Industry reports significant volumes of mixed plastics stockpiled comprising of floats, rope, old cage netting etc.
Application deadline: Thursday, September 1, 2022
