Patrick Clasen

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LinkedIn

Location: Pennsylvania

Patrick Clasen is a dedicated professional at Aperture, where he plays a pivotal role in contributing to the water sector with a focus on marine conservation. His work is deeply involved in restoring coral reefs and supporting coral spawning activities, both in natural settings and in controlled environments. Patrick’s expertise lies in utilizing advanced technologies such as sophisticated controllers, monitors, and water analyzers. These tools enable him to measure essential parameters like calcium, alkalinity, pH, magnesium, nitrates, and phosphates, which are crucial for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.

With a background in oceanography, Patrick brings a wealth of knowledge to the HydroDAO community. His objective is to highlight the vital connection between healthy ocean life and the overall well-being of humanity. He understands that the ocean is not just a separate entity, but an integral part of the global ecosystem that has a profound impact on human life.

Patrick is committed to demonstrating how enhancing marine environments can lead to broader positive impacts, not only for marine life but also for people and the planet as a whole. His work at Aperture and involvement with HydroDAO underscore his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world by promoting the health and sustainability of our oceans.

Wayne Byrne

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LinkedIn

Location: Ireland

Wayne Byrne is an experienced CEO and a distinguished serial entrepreneur, well-known for his successful track record in nurturing start-ups and growth-oriented businesses. His career stands as a testament to his ability to blend enthusiastic leadership with robust team-building skills, underpinned by an extensive commercial acumen. Byrne’s approach to business is characterized by a highly analytical mindset and a deep financial awareness, which have been crucial in identifying growth accelerators and inhibitors, and in steering businesses towards success.

Byrne’s expertise lies in crafting and executing innovative strategies for business expansion, always aiming for win/win outcomes. His leadership style is inclusive and team-oriented, focusing on building high-performing teams that drive businesses forward. With a keen eye for commercial strategy, Byrne has honed his skills in mentoring and coaching, negotiation, and raising capital, reflecting his comprehensive understanding of the business world.

His strategic focus is notably on Climatetech and Water, areas that are increasingly critical in today’s context of environmental sustainability and technological advancement. Byrne’s interest in these sectors demonstrates his commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for sustainable development. Additionally, he exhibits a strong interest in Non-Executive roles, where he can impart his wealth of experience and insights to guide other organizations. Byrne’s multifaceted career and strategic focus highlight his adaptability and forward-thinking approach in the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology.

Peer Erickson

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LinkedIn

Location: Colorado

Peer Erickson has been a prominent figure in the landscape and irrigation industry for over three decades. His career trajectory is marked by significant evolution, beginning with hands-on experience as a laborer and eventually culminating in the establishment and management of his own large-scale enterprise. This extensive journey through various facets of the industry has endowed him with a comprehensive understanding of both the practical and managerial aspects of landscape and irrigation.

Experience and Skills:

– Years of Experience: Over 30 years in landscape and irrigation.

– Career Path: Progressed from a laborer to the owner of a large-scale business.

– Expertise: Specializes in the design and installation of irrigation systems.

– Business Management: Proficient in running a successful business with a focus on high-quality service delivery.

Current Focus:

Erickson’s current professional focus is centered around the design and installation of irrigation systems. He is committed to utilizing water as efficiently as possible, which not only reflects his expertise in irrigation but also his dedication to environmental sustainability.

Interest in Water Conservation:

– Core Principle: Water conservation is the fundamental principle that underpins every design that Peer Erickson and his team provide.

– Quality Control: Through direct involvement in installation and construction management, Erickson ensures the highest level of quality control, thereby achieving exceptional results for clients.

– Sustainability: His interest in water stems from a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. Erickson recognizes the critical importance of water as a resource and is driven by the desire to optimize its use in landscape and irrigation while minimizing waste.

– Innovative Approaches: He continuously explores innovative methods to incorporate water conservation techniques into his designs, reflecting both his expertise and his environmental stewardship.

Client Impact:

Erickson’s approach to water conservation not only benefits the environment but also provides long-term value to his clients by ensuring efficient and sustainable use of resources in their landscaping projects.

Robert Burger

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LinkedIn

Location: Scarborough

Robert Burger is a dynamic innovator in the field of water supply and quality solutions, specializing in the aggregation and commercialization of advanced nanobubble technologies. His career is marked by a commitment to revolutionizing water management and quality enhancement through continuous innovation. Burger excels in combining existing technological processes with new tools and methodologies, focusing on creating solutions that not only advance business efficiency but also profitability. His achievements include the development of quick, low-cost food pesticide analysis using lateral flow assay, which has significantly improved residential lawn pesticide and insecticide detection screening. Furthermore, he has pioneered alternative chemical analysis methods that provide real-time, actionable data for hazardous waste investigations, drastically reducing both time and costs. In addition, Burger has enhanced soil extraction techniques for organic nitrogen analysis and developed an interactive process that merges hydraulic equipment sampling of water, soil, and vapor with mobile chemical analysis, offering a more efficient alternative to conventional methods.

Currently, Burger is engaged in several groundbreaking projects, including the development of algorithms for agricultural soil analysis to enable predictive crop growth scenarios. He is also investigating the use of high-concentration oxygen additions for the degradation of petroleum in soil and water, and the utilization of biological-based sensors to improve water usage in crop and turf irrigation. His professional philosophy centers on the pursuit of innovative and efficient technological applications, aiming to create sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Burger’s vision and expertise not only contribute to the technological field but also significantly impact environmental conservation and resource management.

Stewart Flink

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LinkedIn

Location: Chicago/Nashville

Flink, the visionary founder of Dillon Capital, has steered the firm towards a dedicated focus on health, wellness, and longevity sectors post-Covid-19, emphasizing areas like water purification, precision medicine, and sustainable biotech solutions. Under his leadership, Dillon Capital has become a catalyst for innovation in these vital sectors.

Recently, Flink has also ventured into the literary world with his debut novel, ‘For All the Water’. The book delves into the pressing issue of global freshwater scarcity and the potential for future water conflicts, reflecting Flink’s deep concern for environmental sustainability. To raise awareness about these issues, he is actively engaged in podcasts and TV interviews across the U.S., discussing the critical need for water conservation and management.

In alignment with his commitment to social responsibility, Flink is donating 10% of the net proceeds from his novel to support vital research in water-related areas and to assist non-profits that work globally to provide access to fresh water.

Since its inception in 1998, Dillon Capital has been at the forefront of guiding companies to exponential growth, with Flink’s strategic vision and hands-on approach leading to over $850 million invested in various enterprises. Flink’s business acumen and his four-decade-long experience in building strategic relationships have enabled Dillon Capital to have a significant impact on small and micro-cap companies, both public and private. The firm’s global footprint extends across the U.S., Canada, Israel, South America, Southeast Asia, and Europe, reflecting its broad and diverse investment philosophy.

Flink’s multifaceted career, spanning finance and environmental advocacy, positions him as a unique figure in the business world, combining a sharp investment strategy with a passion for addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Rhiana Sherwood

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LinkedIn

Location: San Diego, CA

Rhiana Sherwood is an energetic communications, PR, and marketing professional whose diverse background encompasses healthcare, higher education, recruiting, event planning, corporate relations, business development, TV news, and media. Leveraging her extensive experience in crafting compelling narratives and building strong relationships, Rhiana has recently ventured into the water sector as a proud member of HydroDAO. In this role, she is dedicated to using her skills to raise awareness about critical water-related issues, promote sustainable water management practices, and foster community engagement in water conservation. Rhiana’s involvement in HydroDAO allows her to combine her passion for effective communication and community building with the urgent need to address water sustainability challenges. She is committed to making a meaningful impact in the water community by facilitating dialogues, leading marketing initiatives, and driving PR strategies that highlight the importance of water resources and the innovative solutions being developed in this field.

Gigi Karmous-Edwards

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LinkedIn

Company: SWAN Digital Twin Working Group 

Over the course of more than 25 years, Gigi Karmous-Edwards has had the privilege of working in various domains of digital technologies, spanning the Data Communications industry, Academia, and most recently, dedicating the last 12 years to the Water Sector. Gigi’s journey has been shaped by a deep-seated passion for innovation and a sincere commitment to contributing positively to the water sector through the application of advanced technologies.

Gigi has been fortunate to be part of initiatives that have embraced cutting-edge digital solutions, encompassing AI, IoT, big data, data analytics, control and automation, and the important Digital Twin technology in the water sector. Her involvement has included roles such as the founder and co-chair of the SWAN Digital Twin H2O Work Group, membership in the steering committee of the SWAN Interoperability Utility Group, and her service as a SWAN Ambassador, where she has had the privilege of contributing to the advancement of global smart water networks. In addition, Gigi currently leads the AI market and Insight report at BlueTech Research and is involved in shaping AI business practices within the organization. She is also honored to be a member of the BlueTech Technical Advisory Group (TAG).

Gigi’s contributions also include her role on the Advisory board of Qatium and as a member of the Advisory team for EverBlue Ventures. Her global influence is also reflected in her collaborations on international research projects with Denmark centered around digital twins for the Water Sector, where she has had the privilege of serving as a Visiting Scholar at North Carolina State University (NCSU), where she was an Adjunct Professor.

Gigi has authored over 23 peer-reviewed publications and numerous articles on Digital technologies in Water, including recent contributions as co-author in the field of AI and one on “Open Water” concept. She has given several keynotes talks on the role of AI and digital twins in our Water sector and frequently invited to speak at global Water Sector conferences.

As the CEO of Karmous-Edwards Consulting, Gigi’s consultancy reaches global utilities, such as the City of Houston, Lakewood, NYCDEP, NEOM, and leading-edge technology companies. She guides them in harnessing the power of digital twin technologies, digital transformation, and leveraging generative AI towards greater efficiency and innovation. Gigi’s academic background includes holding a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and an M.S. in Electrical Engineering. 

The Weekly Dive #43

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Take a look at the map to see where water is running out around the globe. Wind-propelled two-winged ship sets sail. Researchers turn fog into water. Graphene has a game changer in the field of nanofiltration. The EPA launches nationwide monitoring data on 29 PFAS and lithium. BP invests in green hydrogen startup. Bosch enters the water market with green hydrogen water treatment. 25% of the global population is facing extreme water stress. Microplastics could trigger inflammation in human brain cells. July was the hottest month since 1880. This week, we are highlighting Karen Meidlinger, one of HydroDAO’s leading members.

Your weekly Bonus – Are we going to drink water from the moon soon?

This week’s quote:

A shimmering lake reflects the beauty around it, reminding us to reflect on our own inner beauty

Partner Update from The Water Council

The Water Council has many events coming up.

  • NSF Resiliency Innovation Engine Roadshows: Aug. 31 in Milwaukee and Sept. 7 in Madison

  • WAVE: Accessible & Impactful Water Stewardship (webinar): Sept. 6

  • Water Leaders Summit: Sept. 13 & 14 in Milwaukee

What’s New with Water Innovations?

Shipping giants’ wind-propelled two-winged ship sets sail

Cargill, BAR Technologies, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Yara Marine Technologies partnered up to decarbonize cargo vessels in the maritime industry by up to 30 percent.

Researchers turn fog into clean water 

The technology, developed in Zurich, can collect drinking water from the air even in regions with heavy air pollution.

Gradiant launches an end-to-end digital solutions provider for the water industry

This new entity aims to drive cost savings across the water value chain.

Graphene membranes, a game changer to disrupt the world water market

The patented technology provides nanofiltration with a fraction of the energy consumption.

What’s New in the Industry?

EPA releases initial nationwide monitoring data on 29 PFAS and Lithium 

First of 12 sets of data to be released through 2026, this information further builds upon EPA actions to address PFAS in drinking water.

Green Hydrogen Startup Advanced Ionics Raises $12.5 Million 

The financing was led by energy giant bp’s venture arm bp Ventures.

Green Hydrogen Water Treatment – Bosch Enters The Water Market 

Bosch is expanding its business to include water treatment technology.

Interior makes $195M available for drought, climate resiliency projects

The Department of the Interior is opening three funding opportunities.

What’s New in the Science?

25 Countries, Housing One-quarter of the Population, Face Extremely High Water Stress 

Here, we dive deep into what’s causing growing water stress — and which countries and regions will be impacted the most.

Microplastics Could Trigger Inflammation in Human Brain Cells 

Evidence suggests microplastics in our blood are likely capable of crossing our mammalian brain-blood barrier.

Here’s where water is running out in the world — and why

A growing population and rising temperatures will strain the world’s freshwater supplies over the next 30 years.

NASA says July was the hottest month on record since 1880

“The situation we are witnessing now is the demonstration that climate change is out of control.”

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Karen Meidlinger

Karen is the Director of Digital Innovation at Evoqua Water Technologies. Passionate about science and technology and how these can be harnessed in order to make the world a better place, she is a hands-on, results-oriented science PhD/MBA business executive. 

Karen is recognized for a strategic and focused approach to leading new and complex projects to successful delivery. She has extensive expertise in alliance management, business development, corporate development, digital business transformation, early customer development, ecosystem development, innovation management and venture investment for startups through Fortune 50 companies.

Thank you Karen for your leadership and passion for water innovations and solutions, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

NASA’s Lunar Thermal Mapper to find hotspots of lunar water 

In 2024, the search for water-rich areas on the Moon is likely to gain pace.

The Weekly Dive #43

/in /by

Take a look at the map to see where water is running out around the globe. Wind-propelled two-winged ship sets sail. Researchers turn fog into water. Graphene has a game changer in the field of nanofiltration. The EPA launches nationwide monitoring data on 29 PFAS and lithium. BP invests in green hydrogen startup. Bosch enters the water market with green hydrogen water treatment. 25% of the global population is facing extreme water stress. Microplastics could trigger inflammation in human brain cells. July was the hottest month since 1880. This week, we are highlighting Karen Meidlinger, one of HydroDAO’s leading members.

Your weekly Bonus – Are we going to drink water from the moon soon?

This week’s quote:

A shimmering lake reflects the beauty around it, reminding us to reflect on our own inner beauty

Partner Update from The Water Council

The Water Council has many events coming up.

  • NSF Resiliency Innovation Engine Roadshows: Aug. 31 in Milwaukee and Sept. 7 in Madison

  • WAVE: Accessible & Impactful Water Stewardship (webinar): Sept. 6

  • Water Leaders Summit: Sept. 13 & 14 in Milwaukee

What’s New with Water Innovations?

Shipping giants’ wind-propelled two-winged ship sets sail

Cargill, BAR Technologies, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Yara Marine Technologies partnered up to decarbonize cargo vessels in the maritime industry by up to 30 percent.

Researchers turn fog into clean water 

The technology, developed in Zurich, can collect drinking water from the air even in regions with heavy air pollution.

Gradiant launches an end-to-end digital solutions provider for the water industry

This new entity aims to drive cost savings across the water value chain.

Graphene membranes, a game changer to disrupt the world water market

The patented technology provides nanofiltration with a fraction of the energy consumption.

What’s New in the Industry?

EPA releases initial nationwide monitoring data on 29 PFAS and Lithium 

First of 12 sets of data to be released through 2026, this information further builds upon EPA actions to address PFAS in drinking water.

Green Hydrogen Startup Advanced Ionics Raises $12.5 Million 

The financing was led by energy giant bp’s venture arm bp Ventures.

Green Hydrogen Water Treatment – Bosch Enters The Water Market 

Bosch is expanding its business to include water treatment technology.

Interior makes $195M available for drought, climate resiliency projects

The Department of the Interior is opening three funding opportunities.

What’s New in the Science?

25 Countries, Housing One-quarter of the Population, Face Extremely High Water Stress 

Here, we dive deep into what’s causing growing water stress — and which countries and regions will be impacted the most.

Microplastics Could Trigger Inflammation in Human Brain Cells 

Evidence suggests microplastics in our blood are likely capable of crossing our mammalian brain-blood barrier.

Here’s where water is running out in the world — and why

A growing population and rising temperatures will strain the world’s freshwater supplies over the next 30 years.

NASA says July was the hottest month on record since 1880

“The situation we are witnessing now is the demonstration that climate change is out of control.”

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Karen Meidlinger

Karen is the Director of Digital Innovation at Evoqua Water Technologies. Passionate about science and technology and how these can be harnessed in order to make the world a better place, she is a hands-on, results-oriented science PhD/MBA business executive. 

Karen is recognized for a strategic and focused approach to leading new and complex projects to successful delivery. She has extensive expertise in alliance management, business development, corporate development, digital business transformation, early customer development, ecosystem development, innovation management and venture investment for startups through Fortune 50 companies.

Thank you Karen for your leadership and passion for water innovations and solutions, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

NASA’s Lunar Thermal Mapper to find hotspots of lunar water 

In 2024, the search for water-rich areas on the Moon is likely to gain pace.

The Weekly Dive #42

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Join Mission Blue tomorrow to talk Everything Sharks! China builds a new 2.8 GW pumped hydroelectric storage facility. We can now make soap from discarded plastics. Scientists want to “dim the sun” to prevent ice from melting. Amazon keeps positive on 2030 water stewardship plans. Matter gets $10M to filter out microplastics one washer at a time. A group of youth wins trial against Montana for the right to a clean environment. Scientists find nine kinds of microplastics in human hearts. Lead exposure in childhood may be linked to future crimes. This week, we are highlighting Melissa Meeker, one of HydroDAO’s member.

Your weekly Bonus – Paris is cleaning the Seine to host the Olympics in it!

This week’s quote:

In every drop of water, there is a story of life

Partner Update from Mission Blue

Everything Sharks! A Virtual Event with Eastern Tropical Pacific Shark Experts, Hosted by Mission Blue and MigraMar

Join Mission Blue on August 25th to hear from their panel of Hope Spot Champions with MigraMar who are shark researchers and conservationists on the latest in shark research in the region and current developments to protect them.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

China builds new 2.8 GW pumped hydroelectric storage facility 

China has begun construction on its Qinghai Warang pumped hydro electricity storage power station in northwestern China to store excess renewable power.

Soap made from discarded plastics? This is upcycling at its best 

Scientists have developed a way to recycle plastic waste by transforming it into soap.

Geoengineering: ‘Dimming the sun’ could prevent ice sheet melting 

Study finds that artificial influence dims the sun only via decarbonizing but entails high risks.

New study enhances hydrogen production efficiency from water

Hydrogen production has faced many challenges, but water-splitting seems to be promising. Is it what we’ve been looking for?

What’s New in the Industry?

AMAZON KEEPS POSITIVE ON 2030 WATER STEWARDSHIP PLANS

While Amazon Web Services (AWS) has faced criticism in the past for its environmental practices, the e-commerce giant is now proactively seeking transformative solutions to address these concerns.

Matter filters out microplastics, one washer at a time and raises $10M 

Matter is attempting to do so using a new type of reusable filter that catches microfibers.

Landmark US Trial Rules Young People Have a Right to a Clean Environment

A Montana court ruled in favor of a group of youths who accused the state of violating their rights.

GroGuru Closes $2.3M Financing Round 

GroGuru is a San Diego, CA-based leader in strategic water management for commercial farmers.

What’s New in the Science?

Tiny Drops of Water Trapped in Salt Hold 150 Million Years of Ocean History

Scientists have just probed into the last 150 million years of Earth’s geological history by analyzing the chemistry of microscopic pockets of water preserved in crystals of sea salt.

Pivotal discovery in sensor technology to combat water contamination 

Major step toward large-scale manufacturing of uniform and reliable smart sensors.

Scientists find nine kinds of microplastics in human hearts

The largest microplastic measured 469 μm in diameter.

Lead Exposure in Childhood Linked to Future Crimes, Study Finds 

From awful convulsions in wildlife to miscarriages in humans, the dangers of lead are well known.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Melissa Meeker

Melissa is the Chief Executive Officer of The Water Tower at Gwinnett and The Water Tower Institute, two nonprofits focused on enabling solutions in research, technology, training, and engagement around water. She has more than 30 years of experience in water resources management with an emphasis on water supply diversity and resiliency through alternative sources including reuse, stormwater and desalination.

Having worked in public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, Melissa’s broad range of expertise covers public policy, regulation, and management with a focus on innovative technologies, workforce development and public engagement. 

Melissa views The Water Tower as the culmination of her diverse professional experiences, including running the largest water management district in Florida and multiple water-related research foundations. In 2022, Melissa was recognized with the One Water, Water Innovation Award, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Moxie Influence Award.

Thank you Melissa for your leadership and passion for water innovations and solutions, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

REVIVING THE SEINE: PARIS’ CLEAN-UP EFFORTS FOR THE 2024 OLYMPICS 

Paris, the ‘City of Love’, with the Seine River flowing through it, is known for its romantic ambiance. However, the river’s beauty hides a troubling reality of pollution tainting its waters. In a remarkable effort, the city is now working to clean up the Seine before hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics.