30k in funding awarded to our top 3 innovators
The University of Newcastle celebrated outstanding innovation in climate action at the Net Zero Grand Challenge Awards Night, held at the University Gallery on October 17th, 2024. This culmination of the Net Zero Grand Challenge showcased innovative solutions for reducing Scope 3 carbon emissions, with teams presenting diverse approaches to tackling indirect carbon emissions across large organisation operations and beyond.
This event marked the culmination of months of intensive work, where students, staff, researchers, and industry partners collaborated to tackle the challenge of reducing Scope 3 carbon emissions—the indirect emissions tied to university operations but outside of its direct control.
Each team brought a unique solution to this complex problem, demonstrating the power of innovation in the fight against climate change and three teams were awarded $10,000 each in funding to develop and prototype their idea over a six-month period.
Award Winners
Noble Innovations: "Waste-to-Wonder"
Noble Innovations, comprised of a team of undergraduate students, is a project that reimagines the lifecycle of HDPE plastic. This ‘waste to wonder’ project aims to transform waste from campus cafes into eco-friendly merchandise, including artistic plates that celebrate regional unity and cultural heritage. By localising production, minimising the need for virgin plastics, and reducing waste transportation, Noble Innovations is aiming to make a tangible impact on the university's carbon footprint.
EcoFusion: "CO₂ Conversion System"
This ambitious project stood out for it’s innovative use of genetically engineered cyanobacteria to convert CO₂ emissions into valuable biofuel and fertiliser. The team's closed-loop system demonstrates potential for reducing Scope 3 emissions by up to 70% when fully implemented, offering a scalable solution for both agricultural and industrial applications.
CALC COLLAB: "Democratising Carbon Accounting"
CALC COLLAB aims to empower companies by providing open-source, low-code tools that simplify Scope 3 carbon accounting, enabling all organisations, regardless of size, to participate in meaningful carbon reduction efforts. The project targets the complex and resource-intensive nature of Scope 3 carbon accounting, starting with heavy industries such as the global lithium supply chain
People's Choice Award
EcoFusion doubled their success for the evening by also claiming the People's Choice Award. They were awarded a $1000 cash prize for this category.
The winning teams will now receive funding and support to implement their projects, marking the beginning of their journey from innovative concepts to practical solutions.
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Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.