Carbon footprint app crowned winner of inaugural societal impact hack

An app that helps users track their carbon footprint won McMaster’s inaugural societal impact hackathon held by the Digital Society Lab (DSL).

The ‘Hackstreet Boys’ were named the winning team for their idea at the judging competition on Jan. 31, the culmination of a weeklong hackathon.

The team, comprising of Natalie Peluchon (Chemical Engineering Level II), Kurlan Beeharry (Software Engineering Level II), Micole Mathew (Engineering Physics and Management Level II) and Vanessa Harvey (Computer Engineering Level II), created their ‘Energy Loft’ app during the weeklong hack.

They won the grand prize of $1,000 and the opportunity to work with the developers at DSL to turn their idea into a reality.

The team, one of 60 who entered the competition, were thrilled to win the award.

“It was completely unreal and made us feel so rewarded since we worked very hard all week,” said the team, in a collective statement. “It gave us hope that someone had faith in our project; that sustainability could be at the forefront of future digital development.”

Their mobile app idea helps users track their carbon footprint through three key features: a household energy tracker, travel emissions monitoring, and product carbon footprint scanner. It offers real-time data, personalized recommendations, eco-friendly alternatives, and a rewards system, with the goal of turning sustainability into an engaging, impactful, and measurable lifestyle change.

The judging competition was the final event in the hackathon, which included workshops and mentorships for the 120 entrants. The Hackstreet Boys said the support from the DSL team was key to helping them develop their app.

“We met with our mentor Cindy Ly who gave us a ton of useful advice,” said the team. “The workshops were incredibly useful, especially the one on wire framing which guided us in the creation of a vaporware for our app. Additionally, the Digital Society Lab staff were very helpful, answering many of our questions and providing valuable guidance.”

Navila Asgar, who came second for her mindful art-therapy app ‘Eunoia’, said the experience served as an encouraging springboard for her.

“I’ve always been interested in starting my own business venture and the digital hackathon was a wonderful introductory project and learning experience,” said Asgar. “The mentors and overall team were very supportive and encouraging!

The Hackstreet Boys will soon work with the DSL team to develop their app, and encourage others to participate in the future editions of the event.

“Go for it,” they said. “Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. In every competition, there are no winners or losers—only learners. Even the smallest idea can make a big impact on sustainability and our lives.”