Wetskills Ambassador Ap Verheggen did research on dew harvesting to create his SunGlacier project (movie) for the last six years (Photo by Hessel Waalewijn). He came up with some prototypes for dew harvesters to get water from moisture. Last month he was invited by Mr. Middelkoop, Upper commander of the Dutch army, to test his prototypes in practice. But in a warzone: Mali. The Dutch army sees water stress as one of the main challenges for stabilizing the world. The results of Ap’s experiments are very promising. Ap showed that he could harvest several liters per day for about 40 euros of material costs. Several Dutch papers and television shows gave attention to his experiments.
Next stage is to put this in a worldwide Challenge. SunGlacire project and Wetskills Foundation took the lead to initiate such big event. Main aim is that several teams of young talents from universities build their own SunGlacier and bring it to the same spot. After some runs, the team with most water for less costs and most sustainability wins the competition. Afterwards and in-depth conference will be organized.
At the moment Wetskills Foundation, SunGlacier Project (Ap Verheggen) and our partner Sultan Qaboos University in Muscat, Oman are discussing to organize this SunGlacier Challenge in Oman from 20-22 March in 2018. We are looking for partners to join this consortium of organizers for this promising event.
Visit the Sun Glacier website for more information about the overall project. Information regarding the planned SunGlacier Wetskills Challenge will be provided in a later stage.