India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC
Paris, the birthplace of the International Treaty on Climate Change, played host to a special ceremony where five promising Indian researchers were presented with the prestigious Inflection Awards.
The awards, organized by Marble—a European climate-tech venture studio—and supported by Breakthrough Energy Fellows and the Quadrature Climate Foundation, celebrate early-career scientists who are addressing one of humanity’s greatest challenges: climate change.
The Inflection Awards recognize the 30 most outstanding young scientists working on breakthrough solutions to combat climate change. Chosen from hundreds of applicants worldwide, the 30 awardees were selected for their scientific excellence, innovation, and potential to drive real-world environmental change.
Meet the Indian Researchers Making a Difference
Among the 30 awardees, five Indian scientists stood out for their groundbreaking work in clean energy, sustainable fuels, carbon capture, and environmental engineering:
- Eshaan Patheria, a PhD candidate in chemistry at Caltech, is developing low-cost, high-energy-density lithium-ion battery cathodes.
- Garima Raheja, a PhD candidate at Columbia University, works at the intersection of air quality, big data, and energy.
- Mahendra Patel, a PhD student at EPFL, Switzerland, is advancing solar fuel technology by creating an integrated photoelectrochemical device that converts sunlight, water, and CO₂ into sustainable fuels.
- Dr. Monali Priyadarshini, an Assistant Professor at VIT Vellore and IIT Kharagpur alumna, specializes in wastewater treatment using cutting-edge bio-electrochemical systems.
- Vikas Dhamu, a PhD student at the National University of Singapore, is pioneering methods to store CO₂ in deep-sea sediments as clathrate hydrates—a potentially game-changing strategy for carbon sequestration and reducing global emissions.
The Impact of the Inflection Awards
The awardees participated in a high-impact bootcamp in Paris, where they gained access to world-class mentorship and opportunities to amplify their work. They will continue to receive support to help drive innovative climate solutions and influence global environmental change.
The ceremony also highlighted the significance of early-career scientists in addressing climate change. The selected awardees were chosen for their scientific excellence, innovation, and potential to drive real-world environmental change.
The Inflection Awards are a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in addressing one of humanity’s greatest challenges. By recognizing and supporting early-career scientists, the awards aim to accelerate the development of breakthrough solutions to combat climate change.
Why is Climate Change Mitigation Crucial?
Climate change mitigation is a pressing global issue that requires immediate attention and collective action. Rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events are just a few of the consequences of climate change. The effects of climate change are far-reaching, affecting economies, ecosystems, and human well-being.
Addressing climate change requires a multifaceted approach that involves governments, industries, and individuals working together. Innovative solutions, such as those developed by the 30 awardees, are crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
The work of the selected awardees has the potential to make a significant impact on climate change mitigation. Their innovative solutions can help reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency, and promote sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Inflection Awards are a shining example of the power of innovation and collaboration in addressing climate change. By recognizing and supporting early-career scientists, the awards aim to accelerate the development of breakthrough solutions to combat climate change.
