The United Nations identifies the water and sanitation crisis as one of the greatest human development challenges of our time. Recognizing the gravity of this problem early in his career, Andrew Benedek dedicated his life to improving water quality. His innovative work in developing membrane technology revolutionized the water treatment industry, spurred innovation in the field, and brought clean water to communities across the world.

Early in the 1980s, while others focused on activated carbon, Benedek recognized the potential of membrane technology to improve wastewater treatment. Determined to make a difference, he took a risk and formed his own company (ZENON Environmental Inc.) to pursue his idea. The resulting ZeeWeed membrane developed at ZENON uses plastic fibers in the shape of thin tubes containing billions of micropores, which screen out all bacteria and most viruses when suction is applied. Energy efficient, cost effective, and easy to use, ZENON technologies are used in 440 wastewater and drinking-water treatment plants across the world today, notably as part of Singapore's successful NewWater Initiative and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Benedek received his BS in Chemical Engineering from McGill University before attending the University of Washington for his PhD. He is a highly respected international authority in the field of water treatment technology, recognized by his colleagues as a visionary engineer, global leader and philanthropist. He has received numerous awards for his work with low-pressure membranes, including the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize and the Swedish Industrial Water Prize. Since founding ZENON Benedek has been busy developing new companies and technologies in the field of alternative energy.

For a list of all the 2011 Diamond Award winners, visit the College of Engineering Diamond Award page.