The Elsevier Foundation announced the winners of the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026 at the 10th Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference in Dresden, Germany. Two projects from Sri Lanka and Malawi were selected from 285 proposals, each receiving USD 25,000 for their innovative approaches to climate challenges.
The Sri Lankan project, led by Prof. Thilini D. K. Mudiyanselage of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and Dr. Amila K. Jeewandara of the University of Kelaniya, focuses on transforming sawdust into a sustainable timber alternative. By binding sawdust with natural rubber latex, the team created wood‑like sheets that meet international construction standards. The process requires minimal machinery, making it accessible to small‑scale manufacturers and creating employment opportunities for women. The prize will fund a pilot plant to advance the project toward commercialization.
In Malawi, Milemo Lusambya and the organization Let’s Be Transformed (MAGUFINA) developed a circular biomass system in the Dzaleka Refugee Camp. The initiative converts organic waste into biochar, clean‑burning fuel briquettes, and biodegradable sanitary pads. Women’s cooperatives manage the facilities, retaining most of the revenue. The project addresses deforestation, energy poverty, and menstrual health challenges while creating jobs and improving community well‑being.
Prof. Klaus Kümmerer, Chair of the Scientific Jury, noted that the winning projects demonstrated how sustainable chemistry can deliver practical solutions to pressing climate issues. Ylann Schemm, Executive Director of the Elsevier Foundation, emphasized that both initiatives exemplify innovation by turning discarded materials into resources that benefit communities.
The Challenge, a collaboration between the Elsevier Foundation and Elsevier’s sustainable chemistry journals team, highlights scalable solutions to climate‑related problems in Global South communities. Since its inception, it has supported 20 projects across 19 countries, with a strong focus on gender equity. This year’s winners integrate women’s participation at the core of their designs, ensuring that climate solutions also advance social inclusion.
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