Water-Saving Christmas Tree Stand

Day 14
Welcome to the "Water-Saving Christmas Tree Stand" engineering challenge. In a world increasingly aware of the importance of water conservation, this challenge invites you to innovate for sustainability. Your task is to design a Christmas tree stand that not only keeps the tree fresh longer but also does so by using water more efficiently.
CHALLENGE STATEMENT
We challenge you to invent a Christmas tree stand that minimizes water usage while ensuring that the tree remains fresh throughout the holiday season. Your design should balance functionality, water efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
BACKGROUND/SCENARIO
Every holiday season, millions of homes enjoy the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree. However, keeping these trees fresh requires a significant amount of water – a precious and often scarce resource. Your invention could revolutionize how we enjoy this tradition, reducing water waste without diminishing the joy and beauty of the holiday season.
CHALLENGE CATEGORIES

• Innovative Water Conservation: Develop mechanisms or systems within the stand that reduce water usage.
• Longevity of Freshness: Ensure your design effectively maintains the tree's freshness for a longer period.
• Environmental Sustainability: Use eco-friendly materials and consider the stand's environmental impact.
• Aesthetics and Practicality: Create a design that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and easy to use.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

• Submissions should include detailed design plans and a comprehensive explanation of the design's features.
• Prototype models are encouraged and should be documented with photographs or video demonstrations.
• Include a list of materials and an estimated cost for production.
• Designs should be scalable and practical for typical household use.
• Submit your proposal as a PDF file.

JUDGING CRITERIA
Submissions will be judged on their innovation in water conservation, effectiveness in maintaining tree freshness, use of sustainable materials, practicality for everyday use, and overall design aesthetics.
CHILDREN'S BOOK CONNECTION
"Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree" by Robert Barry is a charming story that touches upon the joy a Christmas tree brings and the importance of sharing and sustainability. It's a perfect read to inspire creativity and environmental consciousness in this challenge.
NGSS CONNECTIONS

• HS-ETS1-1: Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with respect to a specific need or challenge.
• HS-ETS1-2: Design a solution to a complex real-world problem based on scientific, technical, and environmental considerations.
• HS-ETS1-3: Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem, considering societal needs and desires, and potential impacts on the environment and natural resources.