Illawarra teenager Macinley Butson has been named as the winner of the prestigious 2019 Stockholm Junior Water Prize.
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Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden presented the prize at an award ceremony during World Water Week in Stockholm.
Ms Butson's project developed a novel and innovative ultraviolet sticker to measure large UV exposures for solar disinfection of water.
The SODIS sticker measures the solar UV exposure required to sanitize drinking water through two innovative products built together.
The 18-year-old scientist and inventor received her prize on Tuesday evening.
"There are no words to describe how I am feeling because I can't process what has just happened," she said.
"Amazing people have inspired me so much this year and I never expected this outcome.
"Everyone here is doing so many amazing things, I feel confident the future is in good hands and will never forget the connections I made here in Stockholm."
In their citation, the jury noted that, "this year's winning project addresses public health through renewable energy and water".
"The project embodies simplicity and affordability leaving no one behind. Water for society: including all.
"This invention is practical, ready and globally deployable.
"The project demonstrates experience and expertise by a dedicated and creative young scientist."
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize brings together students from 35 countries during World Water Week.
Ms Butson, the 2018 NSW Young Australian of the Year, is currently studying at the University of Wollongong.