Godavari Biorefineries Limited (GBL), a leading integrated biorefinery, has been honored with the prestigious ICC – K. V. Mariwala Award for Effective Chemical Industry–Academia Partnership at the 60th Annual ICC Awards held in Mumbai. The company, along with the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, received recognition for their collaborative efforts in developing innovative and sustainable solutions for the chemical industry.

Breakthrough in Green Technology

The award acknowledges GBL and ICT's joint development of a groundbreaking technology that converts CO₂ into di-methyl ether (DME) using a single-step catalytic conversion process. This innovative method stands out for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional approaches. DME, a versatile chemical, serves as a clean fuel substitute for LPG and diesel, while also supporting various chemical synthesis applications.

Collaborative Innovation

The technology was developed under the guidance of Prof. G. D. Yadav and Mr. Samir Somaiya, Chairman & Managing Director of GBL. This partnership exemplifies the power of industry-academia collaboration in driving innovation and sustainability in India's chemical sector.

Sustainable Impact

GBL's approach to sustainability is evident in its utilization of biogenic CO2 from ethanol fermentation for DME production. This process aligns with the company's commitment to renewable chemistry and circular economy principles.

Leadership Perspective

Commenting on the achievement, Shri Samir Somaiya, Chairman & Managing Director of GBL, said, "We are honored to receive this recognition and extend our sincere thanks to the Indian Chemical Council. This award reflects our longstanding collaboration with ICT Mumbai—a valued partner in research, innovation, and knowledge creation. At GBL, we remain firmly committed to sustainability, renewable chemistry, and the principles of a circular economy."

About Godavari Biorefineries Limited

Godavari Biorefineries Limited is a flagship company of the Somaiya Group. As a leading integrated biorefinery, GBL specializes in bio-based chemicals, ethanol, and sugar & power production. The company operates advanced facilities in Maharashtra and Karnataka, with three R&D centers strategically located in Mumbai and at plant sites.

GBL's commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it at the forefront of renewable energy and green chemistry advancements. The company continues to invest in research, innovation, and collaborations that pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the chemical industry.

Godavari Biorefineries Ltd (GBL) has achieved a significant milestone in the chemical industry, securing the prestigious ICC - K. V. Mariwala Award for Effective Chemical Industry Academia Partnership from the Indian Chemical Council. This recognition comes on the heels of the company's innovative development of a technology that transforms biogenic CO₂ from ethanol fermentation into di-methyl ether (DME) through a single-step catalytic conversion process.

Collaborative Innovation

The award-winning technology is the fruit of a collaborative effort between Godavari Biorefineries and the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai. This partnership, spearheaded by Prof. G. D. Yadav of ICT and Mr. Samir Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of GBL, exemplifies the power of industry-academia cooperation in driving sustainable innovations.

Technological Breakthrough

The developed process stands out for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional methods. It addresses two critical areas of focus in the chemical and energy sectors:

1. Clean Fuel Alternative: DME serves as a versatile substitute for LPG and diesel, offering a cleaner burning option for various applications.
2. Chemical Feedstock: Beyond its fuel applications, DME is a valuable chemical feedstock, expanding its utility in industrial processes.

Environmental and Economic Viability

Laboratory-scale validation of the technology has yielded promising results:

• Negative Carbon Intensity: The process shows potential for achieving negative carbon intensity, a crucial factor in the fight against climate change.
• Scalability: The technology's design allows for scalability, making it suitable for industrial-scale implementation.
• Global Replicability: Its adaptable nature makes it a viable solution for global adoption, potentially closing the carbon loop on a larger scale.

Industry Recognition

The ICC - K. V. Mariwala Award underscores the significance of this technological advancement in the chemical industry. It highlights Godavari Biorefineries' commitment to sustainable innovation and effective collaboration with academic institutions.

Market Impact

This achievement positions Godavari Biorefineries as a frontrunner in green chemical technologies. The development of such sustainable processes could have far-reaching implications for the company's market standing and the broader chemical industry's approach to carbon utilization.

Looking Ahead

As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, technologies like GBL's CO₂ conversion process are likely to gain increased attention. The company's success in this arena may open doors to new partnerships, investments, and market opportunities in the growing field of sustainable chemical production.

Godavari Biorefineries' innovative approach to CO₂ utilization not only demonstrates the company's technical prowess but also aligns with the global push towards more sustainable industrial practices. As the chemical industry continues to evolve, such breakthroughs will be crucial in shaping a more environmentally conscious future.