We are searching for topics and funders for the next Longitude Prize. This idea is a draft for discussion about one possible prize focus that we are exploring.
What is the problem?
Many of our most important technologies, especially emergent ones, depend on increasing extraction of critical resources. Competition for these resources is a major source of geopolitical tension, ecological destruction, and socioeconomic hardship. Rising demand for lithium, cobalt and other rare earth materials is only set to exacerbate this trend.
Why does the solution contribute to solving this?
Metamaterials derive their valuable properties of their molecular structure, not, as in the case of rare earths, their chemical composition. Synthetic alternatives could thus substitute demand for natural resources and simultaneously provide new drivers to scale metamaterial manufacturing.
Who is the prize awarded to?
For solutions that nullify economic, environmental or geopolitical risk by providing alternatives to existing technologies based on supply chains involving scarce, contested resources.
The best prize ideas are developed through extensive research and engagement with experts, stakeholders and people with lived experience of the problems they are focused on. We start with a first draft like the one above – then work to improve, refine and validate our thinking. If you are interested in sharing your expertise, or helping us secure funding for the next Longitude Prize, please reach out.