In an inspiring breakthrough for green tech, Wen Roujia has become the first Chinese winner of the prestigious 2025 EPO Young Inventors' Prize. Teaming up with collaborator Alisha Fredriksson, Wen developed a retrofittable carbon capture system that helps shipowners lower emissions without overhauling their fleets. 🚢🌱
The innovative system tackles the maritime challenge head on, capturing CO2 and converting it into solid limestone pellets using calcium‐based materials. Designed to withstand harsh sea conditions—from turbulent weather to salt corrosion—this invention offers a practical, scalable solution to reduce the roughly three percent of global CO2 emissions coming from ships.
Selected from over 450 candidates spanning five continents, Wen and her partner stood out among the top 10 innovators, a testament to their creative approach and commitment to sustainability. Their project aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the role of youth in solving real-world challenges through technology.
At the awards ceremony, jurors and fellow innovators celebrated a host of inventive solutions, from biodegradable sachets that extend fruit freshness to initiatives that promote sustainable resource access. Yet, Wen's achievement shines as a beacon for eco-friendly maritime innovation and a call-to-action for young entrepreneurs worldwide. 🚀
This victory marks not only a personal milestone for Wen Roujia but also a broader step forward in harnessing technology for a greener, more sustainable future. The journey of these bright minds inspires us all to think big and act boldly!
Reference(s):
Chinese entrant wins EPO Young Inventors' Prize for the first time
cgtn.com
