Our topics are the result of a year long ASCE study by futurists, leading civil engineers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, government leaders, researchers and investors to identify what will civil engineering look like in 10, 25 and 50 years. We selected topics that were consistently important to our Future World Vision. Remember, innovation is just an idea unless it can be executed upon. Be sure to review our Scoring Criteria and tips for Creating a Good Submission.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT is a broad category that covers the use of sensors in order to improve the built environment. IoT sensors include a wide variety of devices include sound, video, pictures, vibration, temperature, location and more. IoT sensors are used to collect data that can be used to improve a process, technique, add capability or create a new service or function. And don't forget the use of drones regarding sensors!
Sustainable Engineering
Sustainability is a wide-ranging topic that covers everything from carbon reduction to improved energy use and generation. It includes LEED certification as well as Envision standard. Innovation comes from creating new methods, materials, reuse or business practices that help the Civil Engineering built environment operate in a more sustainable way.
Next Generation Transportation
Transportation is going through dramatic changes including electric and hybrid vehicles. It includes self-driving as well as connected vehicles. It covers the use of information systems like mapping and GPS to improve the systems. It also includes mass transit on both the large scale (rail, mass transit) but also on the disruptive models like Uber & Lyft as well as cars-to-go, bike and scooter rental (Lime, Byrd, etc.).
Improvements in Clean Water
Many parts of the world do not have access to clean water or good water treatment systems. The innovations include taking the water systems off-grid, creating new technology to provide clean water, improve sanitation and reduce disease. Solutions include new ways to disinfect, new models for hyper-local solutions, huge reductions in cost, technology and models and methods for improving water systems.
New Construction Materials & Methodology
Recently, there have been huge advances in materials. Civil Engineering needs to incorporate these advancements to meet the Grand Challenge of 50% reduction in lifecycle costs. Innovations in the use of materials, use of new materials, new construction methods because of new materials etc. are all included in this category. Methods may also include the virtual innovations such as BIM, data analytics, and Artificial Intelligence, or physical innovative use of robotics and 3D printing. Also included is the consideration of building in harsh environments (Under water, floating and coastal flooded) as well as non-terrestrial applications like Mars, the moon, and asteroids. Improvements in construction methodology, especially because of new materials is also included.
General Civil Infrastructure Improvement
This is a general topic category for innovation submissions that do not fit in the other five categories. The intent for this category is to connect closely to the charge or civil engineering and look for innovations that offer improvements in the built environment and infrastructure either now or in the next thirty years.