Buenos Aires Climathon: Submerged Habitat – smart solutions for floodable areas

The Climate-KIC Climathon is a global 24-hour climate change event which will take place simultaneously in major cities around the world on 28 October 2016. 

In Buenos Aires the Climate-KIC Climathon will begin on the morning of the 28 October ART and finish on the following day. It is organised by the Institute of Investigations and Politics of the Built Environment, University of La Plata and the Municipality of La Plata to create new solutions which will aid the vulnerable areas of the floodable city. 

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The Challenge

La Plata City is placed at the southern edge of the undulating Pampa, on a plateau 17 meters above sea level, with a very slight slope towards La Plata River. It is the administrative capital of Buenos Aires Province, it was conceived as a planned city. Is crossed by multiple waterways, one of them being the “Arroyo del Gato”. This stream is the largest waterway of the region with a watershed of 89 km2, half of the urban population of the region lives next to it.

The main climate problem is that the region is facing high raining levels, causing flooding on the most vulnerable areas. The last critical episode occurred on April the 2nd of 2013, where precipitations were recorded with an intensity of 390mm in 4 hours. The rise in the beds streams “Arroyo Maldonado” and “Arroyo del Gato” produced severe flooding in vulnerable areas. 

The first challenge is to find new ways to manage the water – divert it from the city’s districts, delay it upstream or store it for a time. Whilst the second challenge is to face urban transitions, there is a need to know how the city can cope with the flooding risk and rising water levels, understanding how to utilize already existing green and recreation spaces. The city and its open spaces need to be transformed to cope with water.
The last challenge is to create awareness and citizen engagement. A strong, supportive and well-connected neighborhood is critical to tackle floods and climate challenges. It is important to find effective ways of communicating, so that citizens can be informed and know how to act before, during and after a catastrophe.

Pitching to expert judges

The Climathon event will culminate in presentation of each group’s idea in front of panel members who will provide valuable feedback. The panel is comprised of different science and business experts.

Partners

Institute of Investigations and Politics of the Built Environment

University of La Plata

Municipality of La Plata

How to join the Climathon

How will you benefit from participating in Climathon?

• Help solve your city’s local climate challenge, and make your city more resilient to climate change
• Network with local leaders from academia, business and public authorities
• Develop your skills in public speaking, innovative thinking, prioritisation, and explore new tools and methodologies
• Join forces with other like-minded entrepreneurs and innovators
• Become a part of a global community working together to take climate action!

Register your interest now to join the Climathon global movement and drive climate action

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