Youth innovation awards recognize scientific and environmental projects

Various youth-led scientific and environmental initiatives have been recognized through recent award programs in Colombia and Paraguay.

In Manizales, Colombia, the 'Jóvenes por el Cambio Climático 2026' contest honored 16 projects across three categories: Germina, Crece, and Transforma. These initiatives, submitted by universities and educational institutions, focus on biodiversity, environmental education, hydroponic agriculture, waste management, and energy efficiency. The awards were presented by the Manizales Mayor's Office to support the city's development plan and climate change mitigation efforts.

In Paraguay, a scientific and technological prize recognized young researchers from several departments, including Asunción, Central, Caaguazú, San Pedro, and Itapúa. Supported by CONACYT and the Ministry of Education and Sciences, the projects included the development of biodegradable materials from pineapple crown waste, a digital addiction study, an intelligent bio-healing hydrogel, and a sign language translator using computer vision. Notable winners included Bioespuma PY and the Colegio Experimental Paraguay-Brasil.