In partnership with High Volume Transport (HVT) Applied Research and UNESCO, we are proud to announce the winners of the Reshaping Transport design challenge.
Launched on Thursday 1 August 2024, this global virtual challenge invited over 200 participants from diverse sectors and backgrounds to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to pressing transport issues in low- and middle-income countries.
Transport is crucial for global connectivity and economic development, but many communities around the world face severe challenges, such as congestion, poor infrastructure, pollution, and limited accessibility. These issues extend beyond human impacts, with transport now accounting for nearly 24% of global CO2 emissions—a figure that has surged by 40% since 2000 (World Resources Institute).
The Reshaping Transport design challenge provided a space for participants to tackle these problems through collaborative, creative problem-solving, with participants working on a real-world brief addressing sustainable transport challenges.
A collective focus on reshaping transport is essential because the challenges we face are global and interconnected. Climate change, urbanisation and population growth demand coordinated efforts and shared solutions. By working together, we can leverage diverse perspectives and expertise to develop resilient and inclusive transport systems.
Ashwini Madanayake, Associate Programme Specialist at UNESCO
The eight-week challenge provided educational resources, mentorship from globally responsible engineering experts, and the opportunity for participants to collaborate on innovative solutions. With the challenge culminating in a virtual celebration event on Thursday 19 September, we are excited to share the winning solutions.
Overall Winner & 10th UNESCO Africa Engineering Week Award
Revamping Nairobi’s Railways, by Team RT24-029S
Team RT24-029S took both the top prize and the prestigious 10th UNESCO Africa Engineering Week Award with their visionary plan to revitalise Nairobi’s railway infrastructure. Their project focuses on improving train schedules, upgrading existing trains, repairing critical rail infrastructure, and expanding routes to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of public transit in the Kenyan capital. By tackling road congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and shortening travel times, this ambitious proposal stands out for its potential to transform urban mobility in Nairobi.
I think this is something that affects us every day when going to work and living. We’re so happy that our design challenge won the competition and are actually hoping this is something that can be implemented to save not just us, but millions of Nairobians that commute every day.
Kelvin Solo, Team RT24-029S
Runner-Up & People’s Prize (public vote) Winner
SkyLog: A Green Public Transport System in Mumbai by Team RT24-033S
Team RT24-033S earned the first runner-up spot and the People’s Prize, awarded through a public vote, for their project that aims to create a green public transport system in Mumbai. Their solution seeks to connect both urban and rural areas, ensuring that essential services are accessible to everyone, while also reducing the environmental footprint of transport in one of India’s most densely populated cities.
Runner-Up
EV Emergency Pod, by Team RT24-027S
The second runner-up, Team RT24-027S, proposed an innovative emergency vehicle concept. The “EV Emergency Pod” is a self-driving, electric-powered vehicle designed to reach emergencies faster than conventional ambulances. Compact yet fully equipped like an ambulance, this pod-like design aims to cut response times and save lives in congested urban environments.
These innovative ideas exemplify the power of collaboration and creative thinking in addressing the critical transport challenges faced by communities worldwide. Congratulations to all the participants for their dedication and ingenuity. Together, we are paving the way for a more sustainable and connected future.
You can explore all of the solutions submitted on CrowdSolve, where they are openly accessible for further development.
With thanks to our partners, High Volume Transport (HVT) Applied Research and UNESCO.
