The Midwest Big Data Innovation Hub leads a conversation on AI’s role in addressing microplastics in waterways. A curated panel discussion with experts in environmental toxicology, microplastics research, and artificial intelligence applications for environmental solutions will be followed by Q&A.
Participants can expect to learn:
1. The Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of microplastic pollution
2. How data is leveraged to study and impact microplastic pollution
3. The future of AI’s role in tackling microplastic pollution
CEO | Remedion
Alexander Tompkins serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Remedion, a clean tech company dedicated to providing pollutant-free alternative food and water products. Remedion is currently launching a pollutant-free bottled water line and spearheading a number of initiatives to remove microplastics from consumables. Additional information is available here.
Associate Professor | Wayne State University
Dr. Yongli Wager is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Wayne State University. Her research focuses on water treatment and water quality that has been funded by NSF, EPA, NIEHS, DOE, Microsoft, Great Lakes Protection Fund, and Great Lakes Water Authority. Her group’s microplastic research includes understanding the fate and transport of microplastics in natural and engineered water systems, developing high throughput microplastics sensing technologies, developing data tools to identify sources and pathways of waste plastics entering into the environment, and conducting community outreach campaigns to reduce plastic pollution.
Founder | Cora Ball
Founder | Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean
Rachael Zoe Miller, National Geographic Explorer and co-inventor/CEO of Cora Ball, leads the Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean, aiming to tackle marine debris through cleanup and innovative solutions. With a focus on microplastic research, her expeditions range from the Hudson River to the Arctic, contributing to significant scientific findings. Rachael's work has earned her global recognition, including speaking engagements at TEDx and the NatGeo Explorers Festival. An experienced sailor and underwater robotics trainer, she's passionate about mentoring young scientists and engaging in water sports, finding inspiration in both snow and sea.
Assistant Research Scientist | Illinois Sustainable Technology Center
Andrés Prada, Ph.D., E.I.T., is a dynamic professional based in Champaign, IL, with extensive experience in data analytics and environmental research. Currently, he applies his expertise at FrostDefense EnviroTech Inc, developing predictive tools and machine learning models to optimize agricultural products' application, significantly reducing uncertainty and enhancing effectiveness. At the Prairie Research Institute, he excels as an Assistant Research Scientist, leading initiatives on PFAS and microplastics mitigation, securing substantial funding, and contributing to impactful collaborations. Prada's academic background includes a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with a strong publication record, showcasing his commitment to environmental solutions and advanced data analysis.
The Water Data Forum is a series of interactive web sessions that engage cross-sector experts in an exploration of utility, industry, and research approaches to collecting, managing, and measuring water data for impact. Topics in this free, virtual forum will range from new sensor and control technologies to broader application spaces such as water data for environmental justice and climate resilience.
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