David Tena Vicente
FabCafe Barcelona CEO
David Tena Vicente is the CEO of FabCafe Barcelona. David graduated from the University of Barcelona with his degree in physics which has provided an extensive knowledge of mathematics, electronics and the practical application of mechanics. Projects at FabCafe Barcelona are viewed analytically, adapting and altering when necessary due to complex and unexpected situations. These skills are combined to provide training to universities and businesses and also guide David his management of the resources and ongoing projects at FabCafe Barcelona.
Judge’s selections
The Sea-rcular ecosystem award
The project addresses critical environmental concerns. Seaweed beds play a vital role in nurturing marine life. The innovative cultivation strategy, particularly the hypothesis of surface cultivation to evade feeding damage, could boost seaweed farming and help marine ecosystems. It offers a solution to the challenge of rising sea temperatures and declining seaweed beds, and also provides new specialized fields of work, from seaweed collectors to production and sea researchers, impacting positively to rural areas that may be suffering from the migration to the cities.
The Air-volutionary award
The Briiv Filter project exemplifies a remarkable sustainable approach in air purification technology. Its innovative use of natural materials like moss and coconut in the filtration system not only marks a significant reduction in waste compared to traditional air filters but also represents a pioneering approach in the industry. This project is particularly notable for its potential to revolutionize the way industries view and manage air filtration. By employing a composition of 90% natural materials, Briiv Filter not only mitigates the environmental impact but also elevates the standards for industrial air purification. In industries where air quality is crucial, Briiv's biodegradable and compostable nature offers a compelling alternative to the prevalent use of synthetic filters. This transition to natural, renewable materials in air filtration could lead to significant reductions in industrial waste, aligning with global efforts towards a more sustainable future.
The Future of Food Sustainability Award
Guilty Flavours presents a revolutionary and experimental concept that reimagines the plastic waste problem through a radical yet intriguing lens. The project's vision of harnessing biochemical processes to convert plastic into edible substances is not just a creative endeavor but also a pragmatic solution to the global crisis of plastic pollution and a fundamental alteration of our relationship with plastic. The project has the potential to foster a new trend in research where we explore if we can transform what we previously considered harmful into new feasible solutions.
The Ocean Restoration Award
By creating a new, biodegradable artificial reef substrate, "The Mother Reef" offers a scalable and cost-effective solution for oyster reef regeneration. Its design, leveraging widely available materials like clay, is both innovative and practical, enabling large-scale restoration efforts.
The project's impact extends beyond environmental rejuvenation. It plays a pivotal role in supporting coastal communities and fishermen, who are integral to its implementation. By involving these communities in planting and monitoring the reefs, the project not only provides new jobs but also contributes to preserving traditional livelihoods. This approach fosters a deep connection between people and their marine environment, encouraging stewardship and sustainable practices.
The Blue Economy Award
This project has significant implications for the global fight against oceanic plastic pollution. The circular economy model employed by Gravity Wave, which involves converting recovered plastic into products for industries like architecture and furniture, is a sustainable solution that can be adopted internationally. This not only aids in cleaning the oceans but also seeks to reduce the production of new plastics, thereby lessening the overall environmental impact. By working with over 7,000 fishermen and more than 100 companies, they have created a network that amplifies the impact of their efforts. This model of cooperation between different sectors and their 477.000 kg of plastic removal tracked through blockchain, sets a goal for can inspire similar initiatives worldwide, where local communities, industries, and environmental groups can unite for a common cause.