Our resource water is scarce and, compared to many raw materials and energy sources on this planet, cannot be substituted. Economical use, multiple use and the recovery or reuse of valuable ingredients after use in households, commerce and industry have long been the order of the day nowadays in view of the constantly decreasing resources worldwide. The secure supply of energy is becoming equally important for human existence and the development of efficient national economies. In view of the emerging problems caused by population growth, urbanization and climate change, new concepts and interdisciplinary approaches are needed to ensure a safe water supply and hygienic wastewater disposal. A view beyond the purely engineering approach therefore requires an increasing awareness and responsibility for water from students and postgraduates.

Huber Technology Foundation

Promoting this awareness among young international engineers is the aim of the "Huber Technology Stiftung" foundation based in Berching, which was established on May 16, 2006 with a certificate of recognition from the government of the Upper Palatinate. In addition, the foundation sees it as one of its further goals to increase the awareness of "the element water" among the public.

In order to achieve these goals, the foundation promotes science and research, as well as projects in the field of "sustainable use of water", which have a special relation to the problem described at the beginning. This is promoted in particular by an international student competition, which picks out a special topic every two years, to which new ideas, concepts and finished theses as well as doctoral theses are submitted by the addressed circle of participants. The awards ceremony will take place during IFAT, the most important international trade fair for the water industry. The prizes with a cash value of 10,000 euros will be presented by the Minister of the Bavarian Ministry of the Environment, demonstrating the high significance of this competition in the meantime.