A Bangalore-based startup has made national headlines recently when it won the National Award 2021 from the Technology Development Board (TDB). The accolade was given in recognition of the startup’s innovative and commercial solution for converting carbon dioxide (CO2) to chemicals and fuels. The startup, which was funded under the Nano Mission, has notably made strides in reducing environmental impacts associated with excess CO2.
About the Startup
The awarded start-up developed a unique process of using efficient catalysts and methodologies to convert carbon dioxide to methanol and other valuable chemicals. This new invention enhances production of chemicals and fuels from anthropogenic CO2. This type of CO2 is generated from various sources including coal and natural gas power generation sectors, steel industry, cement industry, and chemical industries. In this way, the startup is contributing significantly to reducing the environmental footprint of these sectors.
The Role of The Recycling Carbon Technology
The startup’s technology has been integrated into the development of an all-encompassing solution for environmental problems related to global warming. This technology, known as The Recycling Carbon Technology, is set to be transferred to the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR); an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology.
Understanding Carbon Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS)
CCUS is a crucial process that manages to capture carbon dioxide emissions from sources such as coal-fired power plants. Once captured, these emissions are either reused or stored to prevent them from entering the atmosphere. Typically, geologic formations like oil and gas reservoirs, unmineable coal seams, and deep saline reservoirs are used as storage, having proven their effectiveness over millions of years in storing crude oil, natural gas, brine, and carbon dioxide.
TDB’s Role in Promoting Science and Technology
The Technology Development Board is a statutory body, established in 1996 under the framework of the Technology Development Board Act, 1995. The TDB operates under the Department of Science of Technology and provides financial assistance to businesses that are working towards the commercialisation of indigenous technologies or adapting imported technologies for domestic usage. In recognition of these endeavours, TDB holds the National Awards in conjunction with National Technology Day on May 11th every year.
Nano Mission’s Role in Building Capacity
Launched in 2007 by the Government of India, the Nano Mission is an “umbrella capacity-building programme” aimed at advancing science and technology. The programme is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Science and Technology and has played a crucial role in funding the awarded startup.