The winner of the 2012 James Dyson Award has just been announced as Britain''s Dan Watson, who will receive £10,000 (US$6,260) for his innovative SafetyNet system idea.
The SafetyNet system tackles the problem of overfishing by providing escape exits for juvenile and non-target fish caught up in commercial fishing nets. The escape rings prevent the holes in the mesh closing during trawling when the net is under tension and the lights make the rings more visible and also stimulate fish escape reactions – described as “emergency exit signs” for the fish.
In addition, water flow through the wide open meshes guides the fish to freedom.
Mr Watson is a graduate of the Royal College of Art, which will also receive £10,000 (US$6,260) as a result of him taking the top honours.
Since graduating, Mr Watson has started a company to commercialise his idea, called SafetyNet Technologies and he plans to use the cash prize to develop a range of prototypes and finalise government testing of his design.
James Dyson said: "This tangible technology approaches a serious environmental problem, we should celebrate it. SafetyNet shows how young graduates like Dan can tackle global issues ignored by established industries in new and inventive ways."
