As society continues to progress into a reality wherein technology is given more space for growth, this leaves room for further speculation regarding its possible implications. With technology as a subsequent proponent of urbanization, many deem its link to environmental degradation to be distinct. Several factors make up this correlation, such as its relation to industrialization and reliance on non-renewable energy, thereby contributing to at least 7% of carbon emissions worldwide (Ukpanah, 2024). Recently, many have also highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence on the environment due to its highly exhaustive energy consumption behaviors (United Nations Environment Programme, n.d.). Within the context of flooding, having acknowledged its wide usage and impact, technology can be utilized as a tool to alleviate climate problems rather than exacerbate them through the use of climate-smart technologies. 

Over the years, numerous experts have recognized technology’s potential in aiding flood prevention efforts. This is due to its ability to simulate floods, identify leakages, and collect data that can be used to create appropriate protection systems to combat its effects (Kite-Powell, 2022). Due to this development, several organizations have also started utilizing technology such as drones, thermal cameras, and satellite imagery in flood forecasting (Public Safety Technology, n.d.). Aligned with this, artificial intelligence has also started to gain traction concerning its usage in predictive analysis for flood mitigation efforts. In 2024, scientists have started to develop physics-based flood models to produce highly realistic satellite images of flood-prone areas (Corless, 2024). In the same year, this technology was utilized in Texas with the help of high-resolution satellite data to improve results (Charlton, 2024). 

Overall, technology’s impact on the environment and society as a whole must not be dismissed as it can still beget consequences if not used sustainably. With that, it is also important to recognize that technology is not inherently bad and still has a place in solving various contemporary issues that go beyond flooding. As such, innovation, ethics, and sustainability are principles that must all coincide with one another when formulating solutions for any problem. In line with this, NOVUS Innovations aims to uphold these through its case competitions, wherein the youth can congregate to create feasible solutions for current issues while connecting with large stakeholders to possibly apply these solutions in real life. Through these principles, NOVUS aims to empower the youth to become active participants not just within the competition, but also in society as a whole.