AdminA team from Monash University Malaysia has clinched the top prize at the 4th Universities for Goal 13 competition, a prestigious global challenge organised by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) in partnership with Siemens Energy. Their groundbreaking project, “Turning algae into the future of a clean industry”, outperformed entries from renowned institutions such as University College London, University of Hamburg, and Tsinghua University.
Innovative solution for climate action
The award-winning proposal demonstrates how microalgae photobioreactors can capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial flue gases while generating valuable by-products for food, pharmaceuticals, and energy. In simulated pilot studies, the system captured 8.5 tonnes of CO₂ annually, produced 5 tonnes of biomass, and achieved a two-year payback period—a breakthrough that could accelerate net-zero goals by 2050.
“This well-deserved and impactful victory at the global level, fostering sustainable development goals, especially SDG 13: Climate Action, is a testimony to the excellent teaching and research studies we carry out at Monash University Malaysia, and Monash University’s commitment to the Impact 2030 vision, addressing climate change,” said Associate Professor Saman Ilankoon, who led the team.
The project also forms part of the Centre for Net-Zero Technology (CNZT) at Monash University Malaysia, which focuses on advancing net-zero innovations for ASEAN and beyond.
A collaborative effort across disciplines
The winning team comprised PhD scholars Shafeeq Ahmed Syed Ali and Manuja Dayanath from the School of Engineering, and Lourdes Loh Ye Shing (Morgan) from the School of Business. They credited their success to months of research and cross-disciplinary collaboration, aided by mentorship from Siemens Energy experts.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to represent both Monash University Malaysia and Monash University at a global stage. This is a big win for us and a culmination of more than 10 months of work, in addition to our usual research and teaching duties,” said Shafeeq Ahmed Syed Ali.
Team member Manuja Dayanath added, “I’m particularly elated as this work is part of my PhD topic, and the recognition further strengthens its impact and potential. This win motivates me to carry my research forward and contribute to meaningful solutions for climate change. I am deeply grateful to my PhD supervision team, Associate Professor Saman Ilankoon, Professor Ir. Dr Chong Meng Nan and Dr Foo Su Chern, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout this journey.”
From a business perspective, Lourdes Loh Ye Shing shared, “Coming from a non-engineering background, I am grateful to be involved in this unique and exciting experience. The mentorship provided by industry experts from Siemens Energy was an eye-opener, providing us with a fresh, outsider perspective on our project. It’s given me the chance to contribute from a multidisciplinary perspective and shown how collaboration across different fields can be strengthened.”
Recognition and opportunities ahead
The award was presented during the SDSN’s 25th Leadership Council Meeting, held alongside the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. The win secures a USD 10,000 cash prize and valuable international networking opportunities to further develop and scale the project.
The Universities for Goal 13 competition is part of SDSN’s initiative to empower students from member institutions to create practical, multidisciplinary solutions for climate action. With its potential to decarbonise industrial zones and megacities, the Monash team’s achievement underscores Malaysia’s growing presence in global sustainability innovation.
Their success also reinforces the importance of academic-industry partnerships in tackling the climate crisis—a crucial step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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