Protect DC from climate change at GW’s hackathon

Get your prepper kit ready: a hackathon is looking for your best ideas to protect the city from the challenges of climate change.

“Climathon” is an annual hackathon is organized by George Washington University’s Office of Sustainability and it’s returning later this month. Developers, students, and others are welcome to join.

#DC #Climathon Finals on its way! Great to see these ideas come to life! https://t.co/6LveyxSx5Q

— GW Innovation & Entrepreneurship (@GWInnovate) December 9, 2016

The event itself will start on the afternoon of Friday, Oct. 27, and last until Saturday afternoon. Food is provided, as well as a couple of yoga sessions.

Climathon focuses on combatting the effects of climate change here in the District, with challenges put forth by D.C. gov’s Department of Energy & Environment, according to the event post.

This year’s challenges will focus on ways to shield vulnerable populations in the District – such as the elderly, low-income populations, and people with accessibility needs – from climate change effects like rising temperatures and resource shortages.

Winning teams will be eligible for a $10,000 cash prize, as well as the ability to present their ideas to District officials. Participants are allowed to bring pre-existing ideas to the day.

Some of the winners of the DC #climathon! So inspired by the incredible work and great ideas! @DOEE_DC @SustainableGW pic.twitter.com/IWOUqSoywY

— Sustainable DC (@SustainDC) October 29, 2016

This year GW is advertising a live stream Q&A to answer questions about the event – a handy resource for curious newcomers.

Still clueless about the next #Climathon #Hackathon? Eager to address #ClimateChange? Join webinar on 10/18. https://t.co/mnlrmXbaWu #DCTech pic.twitter.com/jFfacRClLY

— Sustainability at GW (@SustainableGW) October 11, 2017

Climathon is among the many #DCTech hackathons that welcome beginners. Others include the upcoming Tech Lady Hackathon we previewed as part of the month-long Tour de Code, also aimed at newcomers.