Novozymes has set up an online network for individuals and companies to collaborate on solutions to major scientific problems.

The Danish biotechnology company’s HelloScience network takes aim at five initial challenges, all based on a water theme they include developing an E. coli detection device.

Nearly 18,000 children die each day from diarrhea and other water-related diseases, mainly contracted from contaminated water or food. But current detection tests for E. coli bacteria take up to 24 hours to return a result.

Claus Crone Fuglsang, Novozymes’ head of research and technology, said: “Water and sanitation are at the heart of sustainable development. One out of every seven people does not have adequate access to safe water, and nearly one in four does not have adequate sanitation.

“Novozymes already provides a range of microbial solutions for treatment of both industrial and municipal wastewater, but we believe biotech in combination with other technologies can play an even bigger role. HelloScience provides a timely opportunity to bring new innovative solutions into the world of water and wastewater treatment.”

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