Climate change is disrupting global wind patternsClimate change is disrupting global wind patterns, which is intensifying sand and dust storms, wildfires, and extreme weather events, Mongabay reports. This poses a growing threat to human and planetary health, with sand and dust storms affecting 330 million people annually. Conversely, some regions are experiencing "wind droughts," which can concentrate pollutants and impact renewable energy.
Serena closes $215M AI and climate tech fundParis-based venture capital firm Serena has closed the first part of its fourth flagship fund at €200 million, ESG News reports. The fund will invest in early-stage startups focused on artificial intelligence and climate technology, with up to €15 million per company. Notable previous investments include Dataiku and Electra. The firm aims for a final target of €250 million by 2026.
OpusFlow secures €3.8M for renewable energy automationOpusFlow, a European startup, has raised €3.8 million in an oversubscribed funding round, Tech Funding News reports. The company's all-in-one platform automates renewable energy installations and aims to reduce administration time by up to 80%. The new capital will be used for European expansion, including the UK, Germany, and Spain.
IGRPL secures largest single-bank funding for biofuelsIndianOil and GPS Renewables joint venture, IGRPL, has secured a $95 million loan from Indian Bank, the company said in a press release last week. The funding, the largest single-bank debt for the sector, will be used to build nine compressed biogas plants. These plants will convert agricultural waste, like paddy straw, into biofuel, with all projects expected to be completed in 2026.
Tata Chemicals and TERI launch biochemicals centreTata Chemicals and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) have launched a Centre of Excellence on Biochemicals in New Delhi, according to a press release. The center will develop technologies for sustainable biochemicals from renewable feedstocks. Its initial focus is on producing 2,3-Butanediol, a chemical used in plastics, pharmaceuticals, and bio-jet fuel. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art bioreactors to help bridge the gap between lab-scale innovation and commercial production.
Boson Whitewater wins award for wastewater treatmentBoson Whitewater, a water utility company, has won an award for Excellence in Wastewater Treatment and Reuse at the FICCI-ISC Sanitation Awards. Supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the company was recognized for its advanced 11-step filtration process that converts treated sewage into drinking water. The award is expected to help the company expand its operations across India.
SusVentures, PIEDS launch climate tech residency programmeSusMafia and the Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society (PIEDS) have launched the SusVentures Climate Residency Programme, a one-month in-person programme in Bangalore, according to a post by SusVentures. The programme offers founders at the earliest stage of their climate tech journey mentorship, business insights, and networking opportunities. It also provides a practical action plan and Rs. 15-20 lakhs in grant support to help founders validate their ideas and build a proof of concept. The last date to apply is this week Friday, Oct. 10.
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