A breakthrough biomedical waste conversion technology developed by the Thiruvananthapuram-based National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) is awaiting clearance from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) before its official release. The technology enables the conversion of biomedical waste into soil manure in two stages by adding a solution, making it the first of its kind in the world.
NIIST Director C. Anandharamakrishnan revealed the details of the technology during his address at the 21st annual convocation of the National Institute of Technology-Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal. He emphasized the challenge of handling biomedical waste from hospitals and the inefficiency of incinerating the waste. The innovative technology developed by NIIST offers a sustainable solution to this problem.
Once the technology receives clearance from the CPCB, it can be utilized across India, providing an effective method for managing and recycling biomedical waste. The NIIST has a track record of success in waste conversion, with their technology currently being used at the Thiruvananthapuram airport to convert 500 kg of food waste into electricity on a daily basis.
NIIST is keen on collaborating with NITK’s strong mechanical engineering and material science teams to further develop sustainable products using agricultural residues. They share a common goal of converting waste into valuable resources, contributing to environmental preservation and the circular economy.
During his convocation address, G. Satheesh Reddy, the president of the Aeronautical Society of India and former chairman of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), highlighted the significant progress made in the defense sector in the past four decades. India has transitioned from being an importer to an exporter of defense equipment and technologies, demonstrating self-reliance and global competitiveness.
Reddy noted the growing trend of Indian startups, particularly in the defense technology sector, indicating the country’s potential to contribute significant advances in various areas such as drones, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. He encouraged young engineers to focus on developing state-of-the-art products and technologies to meet the increasing demand for innovative defense solutions.
The convocation ceremony saw over 2,000 graduates receiving their degrees, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students. A significant number of students also received B-Tech minor and honors degrees, demonstrating their academic accomplishments.
As India continues to prioritize alternative energy sources, conserving water, and reducing the cost of biomass conversion to ethanol, innovations like NIIST’s biomedical waste conversion technology and the efforts of young engineers are crucial in achieving sustainable development and meeting the country’s energy needs.
