Skip to content
VirtualOnline

2nd OneEarth International Hackathon 2026 | Global AI & Sustainability Innovation Challenge

Explore the topics

About this event

What to expect

Build AI-powered green technology during a free 48-hour online hackathon on 30–31 October 2026, with global recognition and a £1,750 prize pool.

The 2nd OneEarth International Hackathon brings students, developers and sustainability enthusiasts together to tackle real-world environmental and climate challenges. Over one intensive weekend, teams will turn ideas into technology solutions that contribute to a smarter, greener future.

What you’ll build

The challenge places a strong emphasis on using artificial intelligence alongside other technologies to address global sustainability objectives. Projects can explore themes including:

  • Climate change and climate resilience
  • Renewable and clean energy
  • Water conservation
  • Sustainable cities
  • Behavioural change
  • AI for Earth and environmental protection

This is a practical innovation sprint rather than a conventional conference. Participants will collaborate in teams, develop their concepts and create a submission within the 48-hour window. The format is designed for people who want to apply technical, creative or sustainability knowledge to a problem with tangible environmental impact.

Judging and expert guidance

Submissions will be assessed for innovation, environmental impact, technical excellence and scalability. The 2026 judging panel has not yet been announced, but the event is supported by an advisory group spanning AI, machine learning, sensor technologies, computer science, cybersecurity, business and technology.

Advisory members include Dr Ginu Rajan and Dr Rajkumar Rathore of Cardiff Metropolitan University; Prof. Ali Kashif Bashir of Manchester Metropolitan University; Yu-Dong Zhang of the University of Leicester; George A. Tsihrintzis of the University of Piraeus; and Bhuvan Unhelkar of the University of South Florida.

The hackathon’s collaborators include Cardiff Metropolitan University, Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of South Florida and the University of Piraeus, giving the challenge an international academic and technology perspective.

Who should take part?…

Register for this event

Running an AI event?

List it here, free.

Meetups, workshops and conferences go in front of thousands of builders after a quick review.

List your event