Imagine a world where some of the biggest problems we have are solved through clean technology. What would happen if we engage young, creative minds in tackling issues of immediate importance to the global community?

To inspire the next generation of innovators, Applied Materials is pleased to announce the Clean Tech Competition, a design contest for 13-18 year old youth living in the San Francisco Bay Area, USA and Xi’an, China.

The 2011 inaugural challenge posed to students in two of the world’s most historic centers of innovation is “Solar Solutions to the Rescue.” Teams of entrants will design a solar-powered solution to a basic human need identified in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

Participants will define a situation, explore the issue, and then present their unique clean tech solution to a panel of industry and education experts for judging. In the process, students will learn valuable scientific literacy skills and be inspired to pursue science and technical fields as potential education and career paths.

More information is available on the Clean Tech Competition web site and registration opens May 9. This program was developed in partnership with the National Science Teachers Association and the Chinese Association of Children’s Science Teachers.