NZ start-up wins $150,000 in international environmental challenge

Carbon-refining company CarbonScape became one of three finalists in the international Postcode Lottery Green Challenge in Amsterdam on Monday night, and has already won at least €100,000 (NZ$156,000) to help the company bring its CO₂-reducing business plan to market.

CarbonScape directors Nick Gerritsen and Tim Langley will travel to New York for the Postcode Lottery Green Challenge 2012 final on 23 September, having already beaten off competition from more than 500 other companies to be selected as a finalist by the jury at the PICNIC Festival 2012 in the Netherlands.

At this year’s final, the first to take place in New York, the jury will announce the winner of the €500,000 (NZ$783,000) grand prize at a special dinner organised by the Dutch Postcode Lottery in conjunction with the Clinton Global Initiative’s annual meeting.

CarbonScape has developed patented continuous-flow microwave technology in an energy self-sufficient process to convert wood and other waste into high-value graphite, activated carbon (AC) and metallurgical coke. All products are made from renewable feed stocks and, in the case of both graphite and coke, replace fossil fuels. AC is a molecular filter used in diverse applications, including water treatment and flue gas scrubbing.

The widespread introduction of CarbonScape’s renewable ‘green coke’ to replace fossil fuels in the steel industry would significantly impact total global greenhouse gas emissions.

“This is a real breakthrough for CarbonScape. This win will give us huge exposure to potential customers and investors. These awards have a big following internationally and the dinner in New York is very much a top drawer affair,” said Gerritsen.

He added that the company is already attracting serious engagement from international investment fund managers looking to invest in sustainable business.

The other finalists are:

• Molly Morse (United States): Mango Materials - Mango Materials uses bacteria to convert methane into biodegradable plastic, which can be made into products that can ultimately undergo recycling in the same microbial process.
• Daan Weddepohl (the Netherlands): Peerby BV - Through an app and website, Peerby puts consumers in touch with neighbours who can rent or loan them goods they need, lessening the need for new products and thus cutting CO₂ emissions.

This major award has been presented to leaders in environmental change and innovation every year since 2007.