IBM's RFP to Enhance Water Management
IBM has invited proposals for the upcoming cycle of the IBM Sustainability Accelerator, which will emphasise water management solutions. The initiative utilises IBM's technologies, including hybrid cloud and artificial intelligence, and a network of experts to strengthen and amplify projects that address the environmental risks facing vulnerable communities.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that over 2 billion individuals live in water-stressed nations, and this challenge is predicted to worsen in some areas due to climate change and population growth.
In line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, IBM will seek to support initiatives that promote equitable access to safe drinking water, improve water quality, enhance water-use efficiency, protect and restore water-related ecosystems, manage sanitation, and decrease water scarcity, among other objectives.
IBM, in collaboration with Water.org and the United Nations Development Programme, will guide the RFP process, drawing on expertise from various disciplines.
The selection process will evaluate the applicant's ability to support vulnerable communities, the technical feasibility and sustainability of the proposed solution, transparency in measurement and reporting, and other criteria.
"Water management for the world's most vulnerable communities is a tremendous challenge," said IBM VP and Chief Impact Officer Justina Nixon-Saintil. "Following our first two cohorts on sustainable agriculture and clean energy, now we look forward to working with organisations with initiatives that scale technology solutions that will support communities in overcoming water challenges, including shortages, pollution, or conservation."
Ben Mandell, a Utility Services Expert at Water.org, and Mary M. Matthews, Head of the UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge and interim Head of Water and Ocean Governance Programme, along with other partner experts, will provide input and expertise during this year's RFP process. They will offer guidance and feedback throughout the selection cycle.
"Innovation in the water management space is key for meeting UN SDG 6," said Mandell, one of the judges for the water cohort selection. "Organisation initiatives that are selected to participate in the IBM Sustainability Accelerator will have a significant opportunity to make an impact with the help of IBM's technology, expertise, and network across its large ecosystem of partners."
Non-profit and government organisations with a focus on water management can submit proposals for the RFP starting from March 14th until the end of May 2023. IBM will announce the selected participants in November 2023.
Source: IBM
