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.

The Weekly Dive #41

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A Chinese company launches a battery-powered cargo container. Floating solar panels at the Equator could provide unlimited energy. 3 innovative startups are trying to solve the water crisis in Latin America. Ocean 14 Capital targets a €200M fund after receiving €30M from Convex Group. Transcend raises $20M to automate critical infrastructure design. Aquanzo bags £1.2M for land-based systems for the aquafeed market. Scientists claim there is “no quick fix” for Antarctica. An AI model by NASA and IBM can help fight climate change. This week, we are highlighting Todd Rawlings, one of HydroDAO’s advisors.

Your weekly Bonus – When are we going to fly on hydrogen-powered flights?

This week’s quote:

“Water is the softest thing, yet its power can penetrate mountains and earth” – Lao Tzu

What’s New with Water Innovations?

Chinese company launches battery-powered cargo container

The ship has swappable batteries that will help it traverse the nearly 600-mile (965 km) inland route without any emissions.

Floating Solar Panels at The Equator Could Provide Virtually Unlimited Energy 

Solar panels floating on calm seas near the Equator could provide unlimited solar energy.

Waste to wings: Start-up aims for clean, sustainable air travel

“Twelve uses carbon transformation to address emissions and to enable a world made from air, not oil.”

How 3 innovative startups are tackling Latin America’s water crisis 

In Uruguay’s capital, tap water is now deemed undrinkable as the reservoirs have run dry.

What’s New in the Industry?

Ocean 14 Capital eyes €200M target after €30M boost, invests in Norway’s Ava Ocean 

Ocean 14 Capital surpasses €150M funding target, thanks to a €30M investment from Convex Group and others. The fund is now targeting €200M by end of 2023.

Anu awarded $200,000 grant to mass manufacture its aeroponic seed pods 

Purdue alumni founders’ goal is for users to collectively become the largest farm in the world.

The startup that plans to scale-up land-based Artemia production 

Aquanzo recently raised £1.2 million to help them to upscale their production.

Transcend Raises $20M Series B to Automate Critical Infrastructure Design 

Investors in the round include Autodesk, Inc., PureTerra Ventures, HG Ventures, Aspen…

What’s New in the Science?

Irreversible Antarctica: ‘No quick fix’, scientists claim 

Scientists warned, it could take decades to recover from the mishap of climate change but immediate action is needed.

New robotic sea turtle could protect and guide hatchlings

The researchers evaluated the locomotive flexibility of this robotic sea turtle prototype on the Notre Dame campus.

A floating sponge could help remove harmful algal blooms

A porous sponge made of melamine destroyed 85% of algal cells from water samples, within hours.

AI model by NASA and IBM can help fight climate change

The model will be openely available on Hugging Face.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Todd Rawlings

Todd is a former Microsoft Team Manager and Technology Leader for their Datacenter Cloud Operations and Innovation focusing on advanced technology for building and operating Earth Sustainable Data Centers. He is a multi-patented inventor and motivational speaker with Strategic and Quality focused mindset working at the intersection of Customer/Business needs and Technology to achieve breakthrough results. 

Todd has created significant new Intellectual Property (IP) value through his patents and his creating R&D products that have industry disruptive results including: Submerged Datacenter; Datacenter Immersed in Cooling Liquid; Datacenter Power Management System; Networked Device Resource Enumeration and Datacenter Byproduct Management Interface System.

Thank you Todd for your leadership and passion creating technology innovations to reduce water usage by water centric data center companies, and for your deep support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Hydrogen-powered flights aim to go commercial by 2025 

Startups are also solving logistical problems of hydrogen usage so that the transition can happen smoothly and swiftly.

The Weekly Dive #40

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Sign up to Seaworthy Collective’s Climate Community Social Hour! A startup recycles wastewater into beer. Microgrid in a box empowers small-town hydropower. New undersea cables tech is like “a powerful telescope for earthquakes”. Brevel gets $18.5M to cultivate neutral-tasting algae protein. Google’s water consumption is soaring and AI is a big factor. 22 attorneys general are opposing 3M’s PFAS settlement. After Alibaba, Jack Ma is now into farming and fisheries. Florida is so hot, scientists are taking coral out of the ocean. The US Navy is working on an “Iron Man” deep sea diving suit. We’ve lost an Argentina-size sea ice from the Antarctica. This week, we are highlighting Rowe Michels, one of HydroDAO’s advisors.

Your weekly Bonus – Will the US run out of water?

This week’s quote:

The water in your body was a thunderstrom a week ago. It will soon be the ocean once again.

Partner Update from Seaworthy Collective

SIGN UP: Climate Community Social Hour

For this event, Seaworthy Collective is partnering with Clean Miami Beach and Sophie Ringel for a 1-hour cleanup of Manatee Bend Park!

What’s New with Water Innovations?

San Francisco startup brews beer after recycling water from the showers

It is not for sale yet but when regulations catch up, you could surely get a pint to try it out yourself.

New undersea cable tech is like ‘a powerful telescope for earthquakes’

As science bridges technology with nature, the future of earthquake research grows brighter.

Underwater robots mine the sea floor without environmental damage 

The AI-powered machines make deep sea mining safe for natural habitats.

Microgrid in a box empowers small-town hydropower resilience 

Microgrid in a Box combines hydropower with cutting-edge technology for a resilient energy future.

What’s New in the Industry?

Armed with $18.5m in seed funding, Brevel scales neutral-tasting algae protein ‘at cost parity with soy and pea” 

The first products featuring Brevel’s neutral-tasting protein — dairy-free cheeses from Vgarden — are expected to hit the market in 2024.

Google’s water use is soaring. AI is only going to make it worse

Its latest environmental report shows a 20% jump in water consumption in its data centers.

22 attorneys general file opposition to 3M’s ‘forever chemicals’ settlement 

The states involved argue there wasn’t enough time to review the $10.3 billion proposal.

Jack Ma dabbles in farming and fisheries after tech crackdown 

Ma disappeared from the public eye after a speech in 2020 led to a crackdown on his empire.

What’s New in the Science?

Florida Is So Hot, Scientists Are Taking Coral Out of The Ocean 

“Hot water is not good for any marine organism, whether it be coral, fish or lobster. So we run the risk of having massive fish die offs, sea turtle die offs, things like that”

Antarctica loses Argentina-size sea ice. It should be back — why isn’t it? 

This time every year Antarctica’s sea ice builds back up. But not this year.

New membrane filtering technology helps address water scarcity issues

The membrane could be used in advanced water treatment systems and other applications.

US Navy is officially working on a new ‘Iron Man’ deep sea diving suit

A new “Iron Man” diving suit is currently in the works by the US Navy.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Rowe Michels

Rowe Michels is the CEO and Founder of Alpheus Water Research and Alpheus Water Fund I, focusing on early-stage investments in disruptive new water technologies. 

Prior to launching Alpheus in 2017, Rowe was a Wall Street executive, holding positions as Portfolio Manager, Director of Research and Research Analyst on both the buy-side and sell-side.  As an analyst, Rowe was responsible for Electric and Water Utilities, and was ranked #1 in this role for 11 consecutive years.  Rowe currently serves as a Board Member and has part-time operating roles in companies including: EcoVAP, Inc. (VP of Strategic Planning); Energi (Director of New Water Technology Research and Integration) and Sustainable Desal.  Rowe currently resides in Park City, Utah, has five children and 10 grandchildren.

Thank you Philippe for keeping your grandfather’s legacy alive through all of your achievements in ocean conservation, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Will the US run out of water? 

“The issue is not about running out of water, it’s about having water in the right place”

The Weekly Dive #40

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Sign up to Seaworthy Collective’s Climate Community Social Hour! A startup recycles wastewater into beer. Microgrid in a box empowers small-town hydropower. New undersea cables tech is like “a powerful telescope for earthquakes”. Brevel gets $18.5M to cultivate neutral-tasting algae protein. Google’s water consumption is soaring and AI is a big factor. 22 attorneys general are opposing 3M’s PFAS settlement. After Alibaba, Jack Ma is now into farming and fisheries. Florida is so hot, scientists are taking coral out of the ocean. The US Navy is working on an “Iron Man” deep sea diving suit. We’ve lost an Argentina-size sea ice from the Antarctica. This week, we are highlighting Rowe Michels, one of HydroDAO’s advisors.

Your weekly Bonus – Will the US run out of water?

This week’s quote:

The water in your body was a thunderstrom a week ago. It will soon be the ocean once again.

Partner Update from Seaworthy Collective

SIGN UP: Climate Community Social Hour

For this event, Seaworthy Collective is partnering with Clean Miami Beach and Sophie Ringel for a 1-hour cleanup of Manatee Bend Park!

What’s New with Water Innovations?

San Francisco startup brews beer after recycling water from the showers

It is not for sale yet but when regulations catch up, you could surely get a pint to try it out yourself.

New undersea cable tech is like ‘a powerful telescope for earthquakes’

As science bridges technology with nature, the future of earthquake research grows brighter.

Underwater robots mine the sea floor without environmental damage 

The AI-powered machines make deep sea mining safe for natural habitats.

Microgrid in a box empowers small-town hydropower resilience 

Microgrid in a Box combines hydropower with cutting-edge technology for a resilient energy future.

What’s New in the Industry?

Armed with $18.5m in seed funding, Brevel scales neutral-tasting algae protein ‘at cost parity with soy and pea” 

The first products featuring Brevel’s neutral-tasting protein — dairy-free cheeses from Vgarden — are expected to hit the market in 2024.

Google’s water use is soaring. AI is only going to make it worse

Its latest environmental report shows a 20% jump in water consumption in its data centers.

22 attorneys general file opposition to 3M’s ‘forever chemicals’ settlement 

The states involved argue there wasn’t enough time to review the $10.3 billion proposal.

Jack Ma dabbles in farming and fisheries after tech crackdown 

Ma disappeared from the public eye after a speech in 2020 led to a crackdown on his empire.

What’s New in the Science?

Florida Is So Hot, Scientists Are Taking Coral Out of The Ocean 

“Hot water is not good for any marine organism, whether it be coral, fish or lobster. So we run the risk of having massive fish die offs, sea turtle die offs, things like that”

Antarctica loses Argentina-size sea ice. It should be back — why isn’t it? 

This time every year Antarctica’s sea ice builds back up. But not this year.

New membrane filtering technology helps address water scarcity issues

The membrane could be used in advanced water treatment systems and other applications.

US Navy is officially working on a new ‘Iron Man’ deep sea diving suit

A new “Iron Man” diving suit is currently in the works by the US Navy.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Rowe Michels

Rowe Michels is the CEO and Founder of Alpheus Water Research and Alpheus Water Fund I, focusing on early-stage investments in disruptive new water technologies. 

Prior to launching Alpheus in 2017, Rowe was a Wall Street executive, holding positions as Portfolio Manager, Director of Research and Research Analyst on both the buy-side and sell-side.  As an analyst, Rowe was responsible for Electric and Water Utilities, and was ranked #1 in this role for 11 consecutive years.  Rowe currently serves as a Board Member and has part-time operating roles in companies including: EcoVAP, Inc. (VP of Strategic Planning); Energi (Director of New Water Technology Research and Integration) and Sustainable Desal.  Rowe currently resides in Park City, Utah, has five children and 10 grandchildren.

Thank you Philippe for keeping your grandfather’s legacy alive through all of your achievements in ocean conservation, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Will the US run out of water? 

“The issue is not about running out of water, it’s about having water in the right place”

The Weekly Dive #39

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The first-ever cargo ship powered by green methanol begins its journey. Aclarity’s PFAS destruction pilot shows promising results. The world’s largest climate fund makes its biggest water investment. Large funding rounds in smart farming, sustainable energy, and wastewater treatment. Kentucky claims the first spot on the ranking of best tap water, Alabama gets the last spot. 1-in-100 year floods will now happen every 8 years. Northwestern Greenland used to be ice-free, what does it mean for us? Artificial grass poses a threat to the marine plastic pollution. This week, we are highlighting Achim Hoffmann, one of HydroDAO’s advisors.

Your weekly Bonus – Atlantic Ocean Circulation Could Collapse by 2050.

This week’s quote:

Waterfalls are the symphony of nature, a masterpiece that never fails to mesmerize

What’s New with Water Innovations?

First-ever cargo ship powered by green methanol begins its journey 

It’s part of Maersk’s ambitious plans to decarbonize by 2040.

Watch SpaceX spray thousands of gallons of water for Starship test

Starship blew a 25-foot-deep crater into the launchpad at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in April.

PFAS Destruction Pilot Shows Promising Results

Aclarity announced it has successfully destroyed PFAS chemicals at a customer’s site at volume.

Inspired by solar panels, researchers harvest energy from raindrops 

This could herald a new option in the mix of renewable energy sources.

What’s New in the Industry?

World’s largest climate fund makes it’s biggest water investment 

The largest global climate fund on the planet has taken a significant step forward by investing $235 million in a funding facility that will support water reuse in South Africa.

constellr Raises Funding to Close to €17M Seed Round

constellr, provider of smart farming services for the agricultural sector, raised a Seed funding of undisclosed amount.

CHAR Technologies Announces C$6.6M Strategic Investment by ArcelorMittal 

CHAR Technologies is a leader in sustainable energy solutions.

Spain-based Cimico raises €7M for biotechnological wastewater treatment 

Spain-based Cimico is a wastewater treatment solution for urban and industrial environments.

What’s New in the Science?

These U.S. states have the best and the worst tap water: Kentucky ranked No. 1 while Alabama came in dead last 

Kentucky has the best tap water in the United States. In Louisville, Kentucky, the tap water is so good the city was able to trademark the name Pure Tap.

NW Greenland was ice-free 400,000 years ago — what does this mean for us?

The Camp Century ice core unveils when sediments were last exposed to sunlight.

Artificial grass poses a threat to the marine plastic pollution crisis, warns study

A substantial percentage of artificial grass plastic waste was found in seawater near Barcelona.

NOAA’s 1-in-100 year flooding can now be expected every 8 years

21% of the country can now expect their “1-in-100-year flood” to happen every 25 years.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Achim Hoffmann

Achim is the Founder of WOXON, a UK based Moonshot mission to solve the main Climate Change symptom: Global warming’s excess Heat. This heat is 90%+ concentrated in one medium: Water.

Achim jumped ship from his previous job in Venture Capital in 2022 to fully focus on this proof-of-concept for a new aqueous heat conversion process.

Previously, Achim worked for IP Group plc as lead investor, launching University spinouts supporting commercialising their patents with funding and business support. Achim also worked as a Strategy Consultant for McKinsey& Company in the Duesseldorf and London offices.

Achim seves as a mentor for the Royal Society of Chemistry in London and provides deep advisory and support to HydroDAO and our newly launched EverBlue Ventures Fund.

It was in his early career where his passion for water started when working for a German Fraunhofer Cleantech Institute as the membrane expert developing water treatment solutions for industrial clients.

Thank you Achim for your leadership and passion for water technologies, and for your support to our HydroDAO community and EverBlue Ventures.

What’s in the Future?

Atlantic Ocean Circulation Could Collapse by 2050, Scientists Warn 

A major ocean current system in the Atlantic could be about to collapse as soon as 2025, concerning new peer-reviewed research suggests.

The Weekly Dive #38

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Meet Gradiant, the $1B water-recycling startup. AI is revolutionizing algal monitoring. Are nuclear-powered desalination plants the future of water? A carbon capture startup that produces water as a byproduct just raised $80M. Coca-Cola launches a $138M sustainability fund. Climate change is pushing oxygen out of the oceans. Intelligent life is more likely to evolve in oceans. Death Valley could reach the hottest temperatures ever recorded on Earth. This week, we are highlighting Philippe Cousteau, one of HydroDAO’s advisors.

Your weekly Bonus – Painting 2% of Earth white would stop global warming.

This week’s quote:

Water is the giver of life, quenching our thirst and nourishing our souls

What’s New with Our Portfolio Companies?

Mayu Water: The startup aiming to fix the water we drink 

Mayu’s vision is to gift the world with healthy and sustainable water, accessible to anyone, anywhere. It’s all in the swirl, apparently.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

Meet the $1 billion water-recycling startup helping the likes of Coca-Cola, BMW, and TSMC curb their usage and clamp down on pollution 

The water-recycling firm Gradiant became one of the first in the space to be valued at $1 billion.

USING AI TO REVOLUTIONISE ALGAL MONITORING

Welsh Water is trialing a new project that uses AI to improve the way it monitors algae levels in its reservoirs.

ATOMIC POWERED, DECENTRALISED DESALINATION: A MOONSHOT?

Are modular, decentralised nuclear powered desalination plants the future?

NYC Invites Tech Startups To Tackle Municipal Water Challenges 

The DEP aims to change that, with a planned $29 billion in investments over the next 10 years.

What’s New in the Industry?

A Stealthy L.A. Carbon Capture Startup Snags $80 Million From Big Oil And JetBlue

Avnos says that it’s building technology that’s a “twofer” when it comes to environmental crises: it sucks carbon dioxide directly out of the atmosphere and produces water as a byproduct of the process.

Brief: Coca-Cola and bottling partners launch $138m sustainability fund 

The fund will focus on technologies that can reduce the carbon footprint of Coca-Cola.

Algae packaging company Noriware raises seed capital 

HSG student Jessica Farda has developed an algae-based packaging material with her start-up Noriware.

Allonnia raises $30M in Series A to accelerate biotech

Allonnia will use the funding to expedite development of the company’s biotechnology and engineered products.

What’s New in the Science?

How climate change is pushing oxygen out of the world’s oceans

Species like tuna and sharks are especially vulnerable to these changes.

Death Valley Could Reach The Hottest Temperature Ever Measured on Earth

Intense heat waves have become the new normal, exacerbating droughts and wildfires.

New radar tech discovers Earth’s hidden ice — preps to explore life on Europa

Europa Clipper’s new radar-compatible technique will explore Jupiter’s moon in 2024.

Intelligent life more likely to evolve in oceans

A new astrobiology paper argues that technology-based intelligence is more likely to evolve in oceans than on land.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Philippe Cousteau

Inspired by the legacy of his grandfather Jacques Cousteau, Philippe is a multi Emmy-Nominated TV host and producer as well as an acclaimed author, speaker, and social entrepreneur.

As a social entrepreneur, Philippe is the co-founder of SeaWeed Naturals, a wellness brand that is combining the powerful benefits of restoratively farmed marine ingredients like seaweed and algae and regeneratively farmed land ingredients to create a whole new category of Land x Sea Wellness.
His conservation efforts are focused on solving global social and environmental problems. In 2005 he founded EarthEcho International; a leading environmental education organization that is building a global youth movement to restore and protect our ocean planet. To date, EarthEcho has activated over 2 million youth in 146 countries through its programs and we are very honored that EarthEco and Philippe have collaborated with our youth organization Water Corps.

As a special correspondent for CNN, he has hosted several award-winning shows, including his series Going Green which ran for four years and the 8-part special Expedition Sumatra. Philippe has also hosted and produced television programs for Animal Planet and the 8-part series Oceans for the BBC and Discovery Channel.

As an author, Philippe’s children’s book, Follow the Moon Home, has been chosen for the prestigious Texas Bluebonnet Award Master List. He has co-written, Going Blue and Make a Splash, The Endangereds, and his latest book, Oceans for Dummies, which he co-authored with his wife Ashlan was released in February 2021.

Thank you Philippe for keeping your grandfather’s legacy alive through all of your achievements in ocean conservation, and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Painting 2% of Earth White Would Stop Global Warming, Scientist Says

The color is so white that it can reflect over 98% of light. This is particularly useful because light generates heat – and we here on Earth are running a bit hot these days.

The Weekly Dive #37

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374Water’s SCWO technology is now a net positive energy producer. This is what ChatGPT had to say about water. BiOceanOr raise €2M for water quality forecasting and Hooked Foods raised €644K for vegan seafood. About half of US tap water is contaminated with PFAS. Thames Water has accumulated £14M in debt. Oceans are changing color and it’s affecting life within it. EPA announces a new framework to regulate PFAS. Heat in 2024 will leap to a whole other level. ‘Underground climate change’ is threatening buildings. This week, we are highlighting Guillaume Féry, one of HydroDAO’s key advisors. Learn about his impressive background and why he is passionate about water.

Your weekly Bonus – We could be harvesting water from space in the future.

This week’s quote:

Water is our teacher reminding us to flow with grace and adapt to change

What’s New with Our Portfolio Companies?

CORRECTING AND REPLACING: 374Water’s AirSCWO Technology Becomes Net Positive Energy Producer 

Offering proprietary technology and design, the HEC-Prime was developed in partnership with Swedish-based energy company Maston Group, exclusively for 374Water.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

3 WATER QUESTIONS WE ASKED CHATGPT – RATE THE RESPONSES

What can the AI chatbot do for water? We asked it three questions covering communicating water reuse projects, investing in start-ups and meeting 2023 corporate water positive goals.

BiOceanOr raises €2 million

BiOceanOr, a startup that has developed water quality forecasting services has raised €2 million in its latest funding round.

Hooked Foods Raises €644,000 in Crowdfunding Campaign

Swedish vegan seafood startup Hooked Foods, has raised more than one million Swedish Kroner.

Researchers develop cheaper, more robust electrodialysis method 

A recent study explores using polymers with redox properties to replace ion-exchange membranes.

What’s New in the Industry?

USGS study estimates 45% of U.S. tap water contains PFAS 

According to a new study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), at least 45 percent of the nation’s tap water is estimated to have one or more types of PFAS “present” in its system.

Rising Inflation Means British Water Companies Are Leaking Money 

Thames Water’s £14 billion debt crunch highlights issues facing wider sector.

Japan will soon release radioactive water. How worried should we be?

The environment minister declared in 2019 there were “no other options” as space runs out.

EPA announces framework to regulate new commercial PFAS uses 

The EPA wants to prevent harmful PFAS while allowing new critical or safe uses of PFAS.

What’s New in the Science?

Our Oceans Are Changing Color, And It Could Affect How Life Within It Thrives 

Analyzing two decades of satellite imagery, researchers from the US and UK have found Earth’s oceans are getting greener, potentially reflecting the impact climate change is having on phytoplankton populations as the world warms.

‘Underground Climate Change’ Threatens to Destabilize Buildings

The earth beneath our major cities is heating up, morphing in ways that could damage buildings and transport systems.

Heat in 2024 Will Probably Leap to a Whole New Level, Expert Warns

The highest temperatures have been recorded with the largest sea surface temperature anomaly.

‘THE BEVERAGE INDUSTRY MUST DETOXIFY ITS SUPPLY CHAIN’

The report came out in late May as a collaboration between Defend Our Health and Bloomberg.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Guillaume Féry

Guillaume is a WASH engineer and cleantech expert passionate about international development projects, with over 20 years of experience working at the intersection of technology deployment and water management. His focus is on SDGs 6, 7, 9 and 11.

After spending ten years in water operations, he became a technology expert in data analytics, digital innovation and emerging technologies for the water sector. He has experience with utility giants (Suez, Veolia, Thames Water) and global consultancies (PWC, IBM, Accenture). Today, he provides his expertise to international development institutions (ADB, World Bank, AFD, IADB) focusing on water security, urban resilience and climate change adaptation through innovation. He is also an expert for the Solar Impulse Foundation in the “Efficient Solutions” label initiative, which aim is to highlight emerging cleantech solutions. Guillaume is passionate about finding new ways to address water and sanitation challenges and accelerating action to achieve SDG6, working with stakeholders, including startup incubators and academic institutions. He firmly believes that innovation and climate action is not a slogan but a process with substance. His motto: “Do or don’t, there is no try” – Yoda.

Thank you Guillaume for your leadership and passion for improving water access, sanitation and hygiene and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

‘Hundred times’ more probability of finding water on exoplanets, says new study

Rutgers University scientists believe there might be many more Earth-like exoplanets with liquid water.

The Weekly Dive #36

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Earn $100k award with Ocean Exchange now! 374Water enters into a strategic partnership with EGL. Destinus unveils its supersonic hydrogen-powered plane. Water cremation will soon be available in the UK. New technology for transforming nitrate agricultute runoff into amonia. Bluu Seafood raises €16M for its cultivated fish production. Anxiety grips the world as Japan readies to release Fukushima radioactive water into the oceans. Researchers turn chicken feathers into water filters. Hygroelectricy, turning humid air into electricity. This week, we are highlighting Renée Martin-Nagle, one of HydroDAO’s key advisors. Learn about her impressive background and why she is passionate about water.

Your weekly Bonus – Scientists say we underestimated the risk of simultaneous crop failures worldwide.

This week’s quote:

The sound of waves crashing on the shore is nature’s lullaby, soothing our souls

Member Update from Millicent Pitts

Ocean Exchange Call for Solutions is open! Entries to compete for three $100k awards

Apply at oceanexchange.org via F6S platform. We welcome registration from innovators with solutions in materials, devices, processes, and systems that meet the award definitions.

What’s New with Our Portfolio Companies?

374Water and EGL Enter into a Strategic Partnership Agreement to Eliminate PFAS Contamination in Australia 

EGL will adopt and place an initial order of the AirSCWO solution for the Australian market.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

Destinus unveils supersonic hydrogen-powered plane at the Paris Air Show

First fully hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft planned to launch between 2030 and 2032.

World’s first offshore green hydrogen pilot production facility now online

A follow-up project will generate four tonnes of green hydrogen a day.

Israel kickstarts 93-mile-long undersea electric cable project linking Europe grid 

The cable will carry renewable energy from Israel to Europe through Cyprus and Greece.

Water cremation will be available for the first time in the UK 

As an alternative to cremation and burial, Co-op Funeralcare is piloting water cremation in the UK.

What’s New in the Industry?

Bluu Seafood Secures €16M to Cultivate Fish at Scale and Gain Regulatory Approvals in US & Singapore 

Cultivated seafood company Bluu Seafood announces it has secured €16 million in Series A funding to advance its technology platform and scale up its cultivated fish production.

Anxiety grips the world as Japan readies to release Fukushima water

The treated water has been lying at the Fukushima nuclear power station for years.

To Keep Pace With PFAS Regulations, Labs Must Modernize Their Science

The need for sensitive testing and thorough analysis will continue to grow.

Grundfos acquires Metasphere to pioneer solutions to the world’s water 

Smart sewer solutions from UK-based telemetry and analytics business will empower the industry.

What’s New in the Science?

Two-thirds of fertilizer is lost to run-off. This invention could recycle it.

Researchers fine tune smart farming with an ingenious gel that senses nitrate waste from fertilizer runoff and transforms it into ammonia—to produce healthier crops.

Researchers take a step forward in turning chicken feathers into water filters 

Improved technology boosts potential for a low-cost, sustainable solution to contaminated water.

‘It was an accident’: the scientists who have turned humid air into renewable power 

Now the question is whether it will be possible to harness it on the scale needed to power homes.

This is Pleobot, a krill-inspired robot for underwater exploration 

Scientists have created a krill-inspired robot that could be helpful for oceanic navigation.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Renée Martin-Nagle

Dr. Renée Martin-Nagle is a self-professed water geek whose interests include surface water, groundwater, unconventional water resources, climate change, and oceans. In 2019 she earned a PhD from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, for her work in developing a governance regime for the vast volumes of fresh groundwater sheltered in submerged continental shelves. 

She has authored more than 30 publications on freshwater and speaks widely on environmental, sustainability and freshwater issues. As founder and CEO of A Ripple Effect, Dr. Martin-Nagle also provides consulting services designing and implementing a global water resilience program for a Fortune 500 company. Her pro bono activities include serving as Treasurer of the International Water Resources Association, as an Expert Reviewer for the 2022 Sixth Assessment Report by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, as Co-Chair of the International Scientific Committee for the 2023 World Water Congress in Beijing, and as Secretary-Treasurer of the Ebensburg (PA) Municipal Authority. Prior to entering the water sector, Dr. Martin-Nagle served for more than 20 years as Chief Legal Officer for Airbus Americas.

Thank you Renée for your leadership and passion for conservation of freshwater and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Researchers: We’ve Underestimated The Risk of Simultaneous Crop Failures Worldwide

The risks of harvest failures in multiple global breadbaskets have been underestimated, according to a study Tuesday that researchers said should be a “wake up call” about the threat climate change poses to our food systems.

The Weekly Dive #35

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See pictures from the imploded Titan submarine’s wreckage. Groundwater extraction is causing the Earth’s rotational pole to drift. 3M reaches a $10.3B settlement over PFAS contamination. 374Water is joining the Russell 3000, congrats! NASA can now recycle 98 percent of urine and sweat into drinking water. Britain’s nuclear transport solutions set to become greener with AI-powered sails. The largest hydro-solar power plant unveiled in China. N-Drip raised a $44M Series C round. This week, we are highlighting Seth Siegel, one of HydroDAO’s key advisors. Learn about his impressive background and why he is passionate about water.

Your weekly Bonus –  Here is what 30 years of rising seas looks like.

This week’s quote:

Water is a symbol of renewal, inviting us to let go of the past and embrace new beginnings.

Titanic Expedition: Latest Updates

Imploded Titanic submarine seen for first time as pieces recovered from sea floor

The Titan’s wreckage was seen for the first time in pictures taken on Wednesday, more than a week after it imploded in the depths of the Atlantic.

Member Update from Ian Abbott-Donnelly

The water pivot: transforming unsustainable consumption to valuing water as a resource for life 

Ian’s paper presents theories on methods to pivot from linear, extractive uses of water to considering water as a high value, circular resource.

What’s New with Our Portfolio Companies?

374Water set to join Russell 3000(R) Index, Another Milestone Achievement for Sustainable Innovation 

This significant milestone underscores the company’s decade-long journey from its academic beginnings as a Duke University impact project to its current position as a trailblazer in the field of waste treatment and innovation.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

NASA successfully recycles 98 percent of urine and sweat into drinking water on the ISS 

NASA demonstrated a 98 percent water recyclability rate on the ISS for all wastewater, including sweat and pee.

Britain’s Nuclear Transport Solutions looks to go greener with AI-powered sails

The system is currently undergoing land tests scheduled to run till 2025.

World’s largest hydro-solar power plant enters full operation in China 

The power station in Sichuan can save over 600,000 tons of standard coal annually.

Project Neptune: This 450-feet superyacht is all luxury and no emissions 

Billionaires would snap this up as soon as they are built. But when will that be?

What’s New in the Industry?

3M reaches $10.3 billion settlement over contamination of water systems with ‘forever chemicals’

The deal would compensate water providers for pollution with per- and polyfluorinated substances, known collectively as PFAS.

Hyfé raises $9m to transform wastewater into next gen feedstocks 

The capital will advance commercial partnerships, increase headcount, and allow pilot demonstration.

AgTech startup N-Drip announces $44 million Series C for irrigation innovation 

The company’s irrigation system helps farmers irrigate more precisely and efficiently.

bNovate raises CHF 12 million to enhance global water safety 

The round was led by Emerald Technology Ventures, a pioneer in the cleantech venture capital field.

What’s New in the Science?

Groundwater extraction linked to drift in Earth’s rotational pole

The Earth’s tilt drifted by around 31.5 inches (80 cm) east between 1993 and 2010.

This salty gel could harvest water from desert air

A new material developed by MIT engineers exhibits “record-breaking” vapor absorption.

Earth’s water is actually a natural byproduct of the planet’s fast formation

This challenges our fundamental understanding of planet formation.

New nanomaterial can harvest hydrogen from water using light 

An international team of scientists has developed a new nanomaterial that can produce hydrogen from fresh or salt water using sunlight.

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Seth Siegel

Seth M. Siegel is a serial entrepreneur, lawyer, water activist and a New York Times bestselling author, recognized for his thought leadership and advocacy on water scarcity and quality.

Seth is the author of the award-winning, international bestseller Let There Be Water: Israel’s Solution for a Water-Starved World, which is available in more than 50 countries and 24 foreign-languages. The book has won praise from Tony Blair, Michael Bloomberg and Nobel Laureate Shimon Peres.

He is also the author of Troubled Water: What’s Wrong with What We Drink, a critical look at America’s drinking water, and Other People’s Words: Wisdom for an Inspired and Productive Life, a motivational book that reflects a lifetime of Seth collecting inspirational quotations.

Seth is a Senior Fellow at the University of Wisconsin’s Center for Water Policy and his commentary has appeared in leading publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post. He is the Chief Sustainability Officer at N-Drip, an Israeli AgTech startup. Seth is an active speaker advising on global policy issues to audiences around the world, including in Congress, the United Nations and Google’s headquarters. 

Thank you Seth for your leadership and passion in teaching the world about water’s importance and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

NASA Shows What 30 Years of Rising Seas Feels Like in Chilling New Animation 

NASA has released a chilling animation showing just how far sea levels have risen in the three short decades its satellites have been monitoring them.

The Weekly Dive #34

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Here is the latest news on the missing submersible. CRH Ventures launches a new accelerator program. A cling wrap made of potatoes may solve the world’s plastic problem. Alex Rappaport, CEO and Founder of ZwitterCo tells us about water reuse. Switzerland’s blue gold (water) is under pressure. California extends its ban on use of drinking water for non-functional turf. How AI will transform the water sector in the EU. Sandia team is working on a filtration method for PFAS. DuPont, Chemours, and others to provide $1.1B in PFAS settlement. The water sector is the next big thing This week, we are highlighting Dr. Eric Hoek, one of HydroDAO’s key advisors. Learn about his impressive background and why he is passionate about water.

Your weekly Bonus –  A ‘mountains to sea’ approach could help our oceans.

This week’s quote:

“Water reveals the cycles of life, flowing from birth to death and rebirth.”

Titanic expedition search live updates

Missing OceanGate Titan submersible rescue, debris field discovered

Member Update from Chris Fortunato

CRH Ventures launches new accelerator programme for start-ups

CRH Ventures, the venture capital unit of building materials solutions company CRH, has announced the launch of a new accelerator programme for Construction Technology (ConTech) and ClimateTech start-ups.

What’s New with Water Innovations?

How a Cling Wrap Made With Potatoes Will Solve the World’s Plastic Problem

Great Wrap and its founders are seeking to solve the world’s plastic waste problem with a compostable cling wrap made from potato waste.

Kadeya closed loop beverage vending system wins GS1 startup competition 

Kadeya won the $10,000 first-place grand prize in the fifth annual GS1 US Startup Lab Pitch.

Alex Rappaport: Scaling A Membrane Start-Up To Unlock Water Reuse 

Alex Rappaport recently raised one of the largest Series A in history for a water tech startup.

FORWARD WATER TECHNOLOGIES LICENSES IP TO FUJIFILM 

It has licensed IP from FUJIFILM to safeguard its water treatment technology platform.

What’s New in the Industry?

The Water Sector: The Next Big Thing for Investors

Water is an area that is growing increasingly popular as a sustainability-focused or impactful investment area.

Water shortage: Switzerland’s blue gold is under pressure 

Now, frequent droughts and high demand are increasing tensions and calls for regulation.

California extends ban on watering non-functional turf with drinking water 

The ban on using drinking water for non-functional turf has been extended for a year.

How Artificial Intelligence will transform water treatment in the EU

Components of wastewater could supply 13% of the demand for fertilisers in the EU.

What’s New in the Science?

Sandia team works to develop a filtration system to remove PFAS from water 

“What’s unique about (PFAS chemicals) is that they have a carbon fluorine bond, and that carbon fluorine bond is very strong. So not many things readily break it down,” Andrew Knight, a Sandia chemist

SWOT Mission: Why This Satellite Is Mapping The World’s Water

Learn why it’s important and about the satellite making it possible.

NRWA, water systems to win in historic $1.1B settlement with PFAS manufacturers 

DuPont, Chemours and others to provide financial compensation for the cost of PFAS treatment.

Tiny gold particles can help harness energy from the sun to break down pollution 

“If you can use solar light, it’s cheaper and much more available than UV light,”

Our HydroDAO Advisor: Dr. Eric Hoek

Dr. Eric Hoek is a professor in UCLA’s Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering and a faculty scientist in Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Energy Storage and Distributed Resources Division. He is also the deputy topic area lead for Process Innovation & Intensification in the National Alliance for Water Innovation. 

Eric’s NanoMeTeR Lab at UCLA explores the union of nanomaterials and membrane technology for water, energy, human health and environmental applications – all keys to a more sustainable future.

Since the late 1990’s, Dr. Hoek focused his teaching, research, writing, consulting, philanthropic and entrepreneurial efforts on understanding, innovating and applying membrane technologies to drinking water and wastewater treatment, desalination and water reuse, salinity gradient power, hydrogen production, CO2 sequestration, kidney dialysis & protein purification, oil & gas produced water treatment, oil spill cleanup and environmental remediation. Since 2002, Dr. Hoek was awarded over $15M in external research funding as principal or co-principal investigator in addition to being part of teams that were awarded over $236M in external research funding for the UCLA Water Technology Research Center, UC Center for Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, KAUST-Cornell Center for Energy & Sustainability and National Alliance for Water Innovation.

Thank you Eric for your leadership and passion for in advancing water science and for your support to our HydroDAO community.

What’s in the Future?

Our oceans are in deep trouble – a ‘mountains to sea’ approach could make a real difference

The rapidly declining health of New Zealand’s marine environment raises serious questions about how we care for and manage the oceans.