Published:
We are thrilled to announce that Prof Mercedes Maroto-Valer, esteemed Director of the Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre (IDRIC) and Deputy Principal for Global Sustainability at Heriot-Watt University, has been named a finalist in the Female Innovators category at the Net-Zero Industries Awards. This recognition is a testament to her outstanding contributions to the field of industrial decarbonisation.
The Net-Zero Industries Awards, presented by the Net-Zero Industries Mission (NZIM), recognizes pioneers who are driving the global adoption of decarbonisation technologies in challenging, energy-intensive industries. Prof Maroto-Valer's dedication and innovative work in the field have rightfully earned her a place among the finalists.
IDRIC, under Prof Maroto-Valer's leadership, stands as the focal point of the green transformation in the UK’s industrial heartlands. Fueled by research and innovation and supported by over £20 million in funding as part of the £210 million Industrial Decarbonisation challenge (IDC), IDRIC is committed to developing innovative decarbonisation solutions at pace and scale in areas where it matters most.
The Industrial Decarbonisation challenge is a crucial initiative aimed at decarbonizing the UK’s largest industrial clusters, aligning with the country's goal of achieving net-zero emissions. The ambitious plan involves creating two low-carbon clusters by the mid-2020s, an additional two by 2030, and, most notably, the world’s first net-zero carbon industrial cluster by 2040.
The NZIM, with its mission to drive global decarbonisation efforts, and Mission Innovation, focused on advancing clean energy research and development, play pivotal roles in pushing towards the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Prof Maroto-Valer's recognition as a finalist for the Net-Zero Industries Awards reflects not only her personal achievements but also the collective efforts of Heriot-Watt University and IDRIC in contributing to a sustainable and decarbonized future.
We eagerly anticipate the awards ceremony on December 8th at COP28 in Dubai, where the winner will be celebrated. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.