IIT Madras and Thales Announce Winners of Carbon Zero Challenge

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), along with Thales, has revealed the top six teams from the Carbon Zero Challenge (CZC 4.0). This challenge focuses on creating eco-friendly technologies to combat climate change and promote sustainability.

The Carbon Zero Challenge is a national competition aimed at encouraging innovation in eco-friendly technology. It seeks to find new solutions for climate issues and enhance sustainable practices, as highlighted in a recent press release.

The six winning teams will receive seed funding of up to ₹10 lakh. Additionally, one team received a special mention for their impressive work. These teams were selected from an initial pool of 500, going through a tough six-month process to develop sustainable projects in areas like energy, agriculture, and water.

These teams showcased their innovations at the CZC 4.0 Grand Expo, held from October 26 to 28, 2024, at IIT Madras. The event highlighted their hard work and creativity in developing eco-friendly solutions.

Thales expressed pride in supporting the Carbon Zero Challenge. Ashish Saraf, VP and Country Director for India at Thales, stated that this initiative not only encourages eco-innovation but also aligns with their goal of promoting sustainable solutions for the future.

He congratulated all participants and emphasized the importance of empowering young innovators to tackle environmental challenges. This collaboration aims to develop technologies that are resource-efficient and beneficial for a cleaner world.

Professor Indumathi Nambi, the Coordinator of the Carbon Zero Challenge at IIT Madras, noted that the challenge attracted over 2,000 participants from 775 universities and 430 startups across India. Previous cohorts have produced 30 successful startups, with many more on the path to commercialization.

The top six teams recognized for their innovative contributions to sustainable technology are:

• Gudlyf Mobility Pvt Ltd – H2ARWASTE: Creating hydrogen storage cylinders from agricultural waste.
• EESAN – CBG for Sustainability: Providing cleaner bio-methane for homes and small businesses.
• Electropulse Innovations – Wastewater Treatment: Utilizing high-voltage pulse generators for better wastewater management.
• Thaal Chemy Innovations Pvt Ltd – Sustainable Packaging: Making nano-cellulose from agricultural residues.
• ReWinT – End-of-Life Turbine Blades: Recycling wind turbine blades using eco-friendly methods.
• Chrissron Biomass Solutions – Plant-Based Resin: Producing sustainable resin from plant waste.