Carbon Neutral HackathonLaajuus (3 cr)

Learning objectives

After completing this course and hackathon, the student
• is familiar with the latest trends of sustainability in tourism business
• knows where tourism companies can find help assistance with sustainability challenges in Finland, but also internationally
• knows where to find sufficient and accurate information about the subject
• knows how to identify controversies and problems within the subject (e.g. green washing)
• can identify sustainable business opportunities and can give suggestions how to make these opportunities profitable for the company
• is familiar with the service design process and tools, and can use them to solve business problems

Contents

A hackathon is an intensive event that brings together experts to collaboratively solve a challenge concerning sustainability within a limited timeframe. This hackathon is organised by Haaga-Helia UAS and Novia UAS and it is a part of the project Carbon Neutral Experience 2.0. The format is competitive.

Haaga-Helia and Novia wants students to design carbon neutral solutions for a commissioner. These universities of applied sciences host together a hackathon, inviting teams of developers to participate. Each team provides a solution, and a jury selects the best product or service, awarding a prize.

The success of hackathons stems from the creative freedom they offer. Unlike typical development constraints, feel free to explore innovative solutions without rigid methodologies or company rules. While there is a time limit, organizers usually don’t impose a strict framework. This environment fosters productivity, problem-solving, and idea-sharing. Participants also get the chance to learn, network, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and team spirit.

Innovation: Hackathons encourage out-of-the-box thinking and innovative solutions.

Career Opportunities: Winning teams often land contracts or job offers from participating organizations.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, hackathons provide a fantastic opportunity to collaborate, learn, and create something remarkable.

Lähtötaso ja sidonnaisuudet muihin opintojaksoihin

No prerequisites.
This course is suitable for all Haaga-Helia students, not only tourism and hospitaliy.

Implementation methods, demonstration and Work&Study

Join the hackathon and ideate carbon neutral solutions for a commissioner in tourism industry.
As you solve the commissioner's challenge you familiarize yourself with the latest trends and developments of sustainability
You will work at a very intensive pace in a multi-disciplined group with students from other universities.
The hackathon takes place in Porvoo and travel costs, accommodation and meals are catered for.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Submitting and passing all the assignments.
Active participation and attendance in the introductory lecture and the hackathon.

Learning materials

Material regarding carbon natural travelling and tourism. Online workshop and pre-assignment about the project and reports and internet links to current sources are provided in connection with the course introduction lecture. In addition, the students are expected to search for sources connected to the specific challenge they are working on.

Further information

Introduction lecture on MS Teams + pre-assignment, 2 hrs, Date to be decided
Monday March 31, 2025, in Porvoo (Borgå)
Tuesday April 11, 2025, in Porvoo (Borgå)

Physical presence is required of all participants. The hackathon will start with some pre-assignments already before this date. On Monday March 31 in the afternoon, the companies involved will present their challenges, after which the groups will start working with the challenge at hand. The work will continue throughout the evening /night and continue in the morning. The groups will prepare and train pitches, supported by coaches and mentors. The solutions will be presented to the companies and a jury in the afternoon on April 1.