Crowning the FutureMakers of 2023: Creative Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Last autumn, Malmö University, in a proud collaboration with Sparbanken Syds Foundation, initiated an inspiring challenge designed exclusively for Malmö University students. The mission was clear: to spark creativity, promote innovative approaches, and encourage entrepreneurship towards a sustainable future. FutureMakers provided Malmö University students with a unique opportunity to unleash the potential of their ideas, compete for a generous prize of 50,000 SEK, and witness their visions come to life.
A total of 56 ideas were submitted, showcasing the diverse talents and inventive spirit of Malmö University students. Following a tough selection process, 10 outstanding ideas advanced to the grand finale, representing all five faculties at Malmö University: Teaching and Society, Culture and Society, Technology and Society, Health and Society, and the Faculty of Odontology.
The finale, which occurred on 12 December at Malmö University, culminated in months of hard work and creativity. The 10 finalists addressed crucial societal challenges, ranging from electricity consumption and language learning to discrimination in education, sustainable consumption and production, health management, competence development, and dental care.
The winning ideas were not only creative but also addressed pressing global issues. The prize of 10,000 SEK for the Best Presentation was awarded to the team behind “CLAIRE.” This idea emerged from the current culture of electronic product consumption marked by a throwaway mentality. Recognizing the escalating issue of e-waste, the students focused on extending the life cycle of the toaster through easy cleaning, demount ability, and flexible design. However, The impact of “CLAIRE” extends beyond toasters, potentially transforming the design and production of various small home electronics for a more sustainable future.
The most innovative idea, earning a prize of 15,000 SEK, was “Merely Emissions.” The concept tackles the environmental impact of greenhouse gases generated by the internet, surpassing even the aviation industry. “Merely Emissions” introduces a web app allowing companies to analyze their websites, emphasizing emissions and reducing IT waste. The app’s threefold approach includes analysis and reports, continuous monitoring, and collaborative work, offering a chance to decrease the demand for hardware and contribute to environmental preservation.
The idea with the biggest Societal Impact, receiving a prize of 25,000 SEK, was “Ömsa.” This digital platform addresses contemporary challenges related to consumption and production, challenging the norm of money as the primary means of acquiring goods. “Ömsa” reintroduces the age-old practice of bartering, promoting sustainable consumption and a circular economy. By facilitating exchanges rather than direct purchases, “Ömsa” aims to reduce overconsumption and redefine societal norms surrounding the value of goods. The winning team of “Ömsa” expressed their gratitude for the competition, stating:
Futuremakers gave us the opportunity to refine our idea and develop the skill to convey our vision. The competition would have been worthwhile even if we hadn’t won any prize!
Teodor Esaiasson and Teodor Juncke
FutureMakers has not only encouraged creativity but has also become a catalyst for positive change, showcasing the immense potential within Malmö University’s student community. As these ideas continue to evolve, they hold the promise of contributing significantly to a more sustainable and creative future.
FutureMakers at Malmö University is organized in proud collaboration with the Sparbanken Syds Foundation, which aims to support good ideas close to you.