Event: UK Junior Water Prize 2023 (part of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize programme)

Date: May 2023

Location: UK (virtual and in‑person judging activities)

Type of CPD: Judging / mentoring / youth innovation engagement

Duration: Half‑day judging + preparation and review

Summary of the Event

I served as a Judge for the UK Junior Water Prize 2023, a national competition that recognises outstanding water‑related research and innovation projects developed by young people aged 15–20. The programme forms part of the global Stockholm Junior Water Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious youth water awards.

The event brought together students from across the UK presenting projects focused on water quality, pollution reduction, climate resilience, digital tools, nature‑based solutions and community‑driven environmental improvement. As a judge, I evaluated submissions, provided feedback, and engaged with finalists to support their development as future water sector leaders.

My Contribution: Judge

Key responsibilities:

• Reviewed written submissions and supporting materials from all shortlisted entrants.
• Assessed projects against criteria including scientific rigour, innovation, practical impact, sustainability, and communication quality.
• Participated in finalist interviews, asking technical and contextual questions to understand each project’s methodology and potential.
• Provided constructive feedback to students on research design, data interpretation, and pathways for further development.
• Contributed to the judging panel’s deliberations and final scoring.
• Supported the recognition of the winning project and encouraged ongoing engagement with the water sector.

Key Themes Covered

Research skills and scientific communication Methodology, data quality, experimental design and impact assessment.

Youth innovation and STEM development Encouraging the next generation of water scientists, engineers and environmental leaders.

Water quality and pollution reduction Student projects addressing chemical, biological and ecological challenges.

Digital tools and monitoring technologies Novel approaches to sensing, data analysis and environmental insight.

Climate resilience and sustainability Adaptation strategies, nature‑based solutions and community‑focused interventions.