The Challenge
Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth. It is critical for food security, climate stability, and clean water, with annual ecosystem services valued higher than the global economy. Yet, biodiversity is in crisis: over 1 million species face extinction due to habitat destruction, pollution, and unsustainable practices. The World Economic Forum identifies biodiversity loss as humanity’s greatest threat after climate change.
​
This is a global challenge that demands bold ideas and action - and that’s where you come in.
What is a Hackathon?
A hackathon is an immersive 42-hour competition dedicated to hacking a problem collaboratively. It’s where you’ll brainstorm, prototype, and pitch solutions to real-world problems, all with the support of experienced mentors, engaging workshops, and a vibrant community of changemakers.
This is your chance to learn, create, and make a lasting impact - no matter your background or experience.
A Nation-Wide Call to Action
This year from 15-17 August we’re bringing together 200+ participants from all across Australia to the University of Queensland for an unforgettable weekend. Together, we’ll create the world’s biggest biodiversity hackathon under one roof.
Whether you’re a student, young professional, or passionate innovator, this is your chance to tackle biodiversity challenges head-on and turn your ideas into reality.
Bold Ideas. Any Field. Win Here.
​Focus on the real problem, make an innovative leap, and aim for outsized impact. Whether your answer is a policy tweak, a community programme, a hardware prototype, an artistic campaign, a startup concept, or an open‑source tool - if it can shift the needle on biodiversity, it belongs here.
How can I hack biodiversity loss?
You will work a solution that will tackle one or more key areas where innovation is urgently needed:
Restore Lands & Waters
Bring damaged forests, rivers and oceans back to life. Rewild, reforest, manage invasive species and reconnect habitat so ecosystems and people can thrive.
Reduce Pollution
Cut the stuff that chokes nature - greenhouse gases, chemicals, plastics, runoff, noise and ligh. Detect, prevent and clean up at every scale.
Shift Behaviour
Nudge lifestyles, markets and mindsets. From smarter policy to everyday choices, make the sustainable option the obvious option.
Empower Communities
Design tools, platforms and initiatives that enable communities to lead - and benefit from - their own conservation efforts. Make it fair.
Rethink Production
Reinvent how we farm, fish, build and mine. Design circular, low-impact systems and cities that meet human needs without trashing the planet.