Tag: Environmental Stewardship Prize

Chitra Sulkan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Chitra Sulkan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Lead Research and Technology at Elecsome Pty Ltd, Australia

Dr. Chitra Sulkan is an innovative researcher specializing in solar panel recycling and sustainability. With a Ph.D. in Chemical Science and Built Environment, she has dedicated over six years to pioneering novel chemical, mechanical, and thermal recovery processes for valuable materials like silicon, silver, and glass. Currently leading research and technology development at Elecsome Pty Ltd in Australia, Dr. Sulkan focuses on scaling lab-based innovations for industrial applications. Her work contributes significantly to circular economy solutions, enhancing sustainable practices within the solar energy sector. Through numerous publications, conference presentations, and industry collaborations, she remains at the forefront of photovoltaic (PV) waste management and environmental sustainability.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Sulkan completed her Ph.D. in Chemical Science and Built Environment through a collaborative program between AcSIR (India) and RMIT University (Australia). She earned her Master of Science in Chemistry from MDU Rohtak, Haryana, India, in 2016, following her Bachelor of Science in Applied Science from the same institution in 2014. Her academic journey has provided her with expertise in solar panel recycling and material recovery, establishing a strong foundation for her research in sustainability.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sulkan serves as the Lead Research and Technology expert at Elecsome Pty Ltd, where she spearheads research initiatives for industrial-scale solar panel recycling. Previously, she worked as a Ph.D. researcher at AcSIR and RMIT University, focusing on innovative material recovery methods from end-of-life solar panels. Her research included life cycle assessment (LCA) studies and process optimizations for polymer and aluminum separation. Earlier in her career, she held academic positions, including Assistant Professor at Hindu Girls College and Visiting Faculty in the Chemistry Department at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University.

Research Interests

Dr. Sulkan’s research interests encompass solar panel recycling, material recovery, and sustainability. She is dedicated to developing efficient and eco-friendly recycling techniques for PV modules, with a focus on recovering high-value materials. Her work integrates life cycle assessment (LCA), thermal analysis, and chemical treatments to enhance recycling processes. She is also passionate about circular economy solutions and the industrial applications of sustainable energy practices, actively contributing to the transition toward renewable and sustainable technologies.

Research Skills

Dr. Sulkan possesses expertise in advanced material characterization techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Her proficiency in these analytical methods enables precise evaluation of recovered materials from solar panel waste. Additionally, she has significant experience in experimental design, process optimization, and sustainability assessments related to solar panel recycling.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Sulkan has received multiple accolades for her contributions to solar panel recycling research. She won the People’s Choice Award at the Haiku Thesis Competition (2024) at RMIT University and was honored with the Best Oral Presentation Award at the National Conference on Advances in Solar Energy (ASEM-2023). She has also received Best Poster Awards at various national and international conferences, including events at CSIR-NPL, Delhi, and the International Conference on Purification and Recycling of Electronic Materials (ICPREM). Additionally, she secured prestigious research grants from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in India.

Conclusion

Dr. Chitra Sulkan is a dedicated sustainability expert making significant strides in solar panel recycling and material recovery. Her extensive research contributions, academic endeavors, and industry leadership underscore her commitment to advancing environmentally sustainable solutions. Through innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, she continues to drive impactful changes in the field of renewable energy recycling. With a strong academic and professional background, Dr. Sulkan is poised to shape the future of solar waste management, promoting circular economy principles and sustainable technology solutions worldwide.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Structural Composition and Thermal Stability of Extracted EVA from Silicon Solar Modules Waste
    Authors: Chitra, Sah, D., Lodhi, K., Kant, C., Saini, P., Kumar, S.
    Year: 2020

  2. Extraction and Analysis of Recovered Silver and Silicon from Laboratory Grade Waste Solar Cells
    Authors: Sah, D., Chitra, Lodhi, K., Kant, C., Srivastava, S. K., Kumar, S.
    Year: 2022

  3. Recovery and Analysis of Valuable Materials from Discarded Crystalline Silicon Solar Panel
    Authors: Sah, D., Chitra, Kumar, S.
    Year: 2022

  4. Recovery and Analysis of Polymeric Layers from Waste Solar Module by Chemical Route
    Authors: Chitra, Dheeraj Sah, Parveen Saini, Sushil Kumar
    Year: 2022

  5. Extraction and Analysis of Back Sheet Layer from Waste Modules
    Authors: Chitra, Dheeraj Sah, Parveen Saini, Sushil Kumar
    Year: 2022

  6. Growth of Polycrystalline Silicon Ingots Using Recycle Silicon from Waste Solar Module
    Authors: Sah, D., Chitra, Upadhyay, N.K., Muthiah, S., Sushil Kumar*
    Year: 2023

  7. Investigation and Recovery of Copper from Waste Silicon Solar Module
    Authors: Dheeraj Sah, Chitra, Sushil Kumar*
    Year: 2022

  8. Optimized EVA Decomposition in Bifacial Solar Panels: Sustainable Recovery of Polymerized Oil and Materials
    Authors: Chitra Sulkan*, Prashant Kumar Thakur, Shailza Sharma, Neeraj Das
    Year: 2025

  9. Evaluation of Environmental Footprint: Life Cycle Assessment of Laboratory-Scale Thermal and Chemical Processes Used for Materials Extraction from Waste Silicon Solar Panels
    Authors: Chitra Sulkan, Prashant Kumar Thakur, Rebecca Yang*, Sushil Kumar
    Year: 2025

  10. Sustainable Energy Practices: Analysis of Gases and Particulate Matter Emissions During Pyrolysis of Polymeric Layers of Waste Silicon Solar Panels for Recycling Process
    Authors: Chitra Sulkan, Dheeraj Sah, Rahul, T.K. Mondal, Parveen Saini, Rebecca Yang, Sushil Kumar

 

 

Belén Fernández | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Belén Fernández | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Researcher of IRTA, Spain .

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela (2004), is a dedicated researcher in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. She specializes in organic waste valorization, focusing on processes like anaerobic digestion and fermentative bioreactors. With an h-index of 20, Dr. Fernández García has led numerous research projects and supervised doctoral theses, contributing significantly to the field of sustainability and renewable energy. Her expertise extends to pretreatment techniques for enhancing biological degradation of organic wastes and developing innovative solutions for renewable energy production and emissions mitigation. Dr. Fernández García’s current research emphasizes agroindustrial waste valorization for renewable energy, nutrient recovery, and emissions reduction. She is actively involved in several ongoing research projects aimed at promoting sustainability in agriculture and waste management. Her work underscores a commitment to scientific excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García earned her PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela in 2004. Since 2012, she has been a dedicated researcher in the Sustainability in Biosystems Program at IRTA. Her research spans environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering, focusing on organic waste valorization processes. Dr. Fernández García has extensive experience in developing and demonstrating waste valorization methods at laboratory and pilot scales, specializing in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and microbial activity assessments. She has led numerous EU and national research projects, supervised doctoral theses, and contributed to innovative initiatives for renewable energy production and emissions mitigation in agroindustrial settings. Currently, she is actively involved in projects promoting sustainability in olive cultivation and optimizing resource use in agriculture. Her work exemplifies a commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, a Chemical Engineering PhD from the University of Santiago de Compostela (2004) and researcher at IRTA since 2012, specializes in environmental sciences and biotechnology. With expertise in organic waste valorization, anaerobic digestion, and bioreactor technologies, she leads innovative projects in renewable energy and emissions reduction. Dr. Fernández García has contributed to numerous EU and national research initiatives, supervising doctoral theses and master’s projects. Her current focus involves agroindustrial waste valorization for energy and nutrient recovery, alongside emissions reduction strategies in farm-scale settings. Committed to sustainable practices, she champions novel solutions in environmental engineering and biotechnology, aligning her work with global efforts toward a greener future.

Research Interest

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, with a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela, is a dedicated researcher focusing on environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her expertise lies in the valorization of organic waste through innovative processes, such as anaerobic digestion and fermentative bioreactors, to produce renewable energy sources like biogas and biohydrogen. Dr. Fernández García is well-versed in pretreatment methods for optimizing organic waste degradation and nutrient recovery from agroindustrial residues. She has an extensive track record in both EU and national projects, with a strong commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction in agri-food systems. Currently, her research explores novel approaches to waste valorization, nutrient recovery, and emissions mitigation, contributing significantly to the field of environmental engineering and biotechnology.

Award and Honors

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García is a distinguished researcher specializing in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. She obtained her PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela in 2004 and currently holds an impressive h-index of 20. Dr. Fernández García is renowned for her expertise in organic waste valorization processes, with extensive experience in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and pretreatment techniques to enhance biological degradation. Throughout her career, Dr. Fernández García has actively contributed to 23 EU and national public projects and 93 private R&D&i contracts. She has supervised 8 completed doctoral theses and continues to mentor 2 ongoing doctoral candidates, along with overseeing 15 master’s final projects and 28 internships for professional and university degree students. Her research focuses on sustainable energy production, nutrient recovery from waste, and innovative emissions mitigation strategies, making significant strides in environmental engineering and sustainability.

Research Skills

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in research methodologies and techniques, particularly in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her research spans the development and demonstration of organic waste valorization processes at laboratory and pilot scales, with expertise in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and microbial activity assessments. She specializes in employing pretreatment techniques such as high-pressure/temperature treatment, hydrothermal carbonization, and ultrasonic treatment to enhance the biological degradation of organic wastes. Dr. Fernández García has extensive experience managing EU and national research projects, private R&D&i contracts, and supervising doctoral and master’s theses. Her collaborative approach and innovative solutions contribute significantly to the field of sustainability and renewable energy. With a focus on agroindustrial waste valorization, she is dedicated to developing solutions for renewable energy production, nutrient recovery, and emissions mitigation. Her research skills underscore her commitment to addressing environmental challenges through scientific excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Publications

  1. Publication Title: “Effectiveness of precision feeding in reducing N excretion in dairy cattle”
    • Authors: Morey, L.; Bach, A.; Sabrià, D.; Fernández, B.; Terré, M.
    • Journal: Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2023, 304, 115722
    • Citations: 0
  2. Publication Title: “Acidification and solar drying of manure-based digestate to produce improved fertilizing products”
    • Authors: Morey, L.; Fernández, B.; Tey, L.; Cots, M.; Riau, V.
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Management, 2023, 336, 117664
    • Citations: 7
  3. Publication Title: “Near infrared spectroscopy for fast characterization of animal by products feedstocks for biogas production: Calibration of a handheld device”
    • Authors: Otero, A.; Segura, C.; Tey, L.; Comaposada, J.; Fernández, B.
    • Journal: Biomass and Bioenergy, 2023, 169, 106691
    • Citations: 1
  4. Publication Title: “Use of wood and cork in biofilters for the simultaneous removal of nitrates and pesticides from groundwater”
    • Authors: Escolà Casas, M.; Guivernau, M.; Viñas, M.; Biel, C.; Matamoros, V.
    • Journal: Chemosphere, 2023, 313, 137502
    • Citations: 4
  5. Publication Title: “Assessment of a novel microalgae-cork based technology for removing antibiotics, pesticides and nitrates from groundwater”
    • Authors: Rambaldo, L.; Ávila, H.; Escolà Casas, M.; Bayona, J.M.; Matamoros, V.
    • Journal: Chemosphere, 2022, 301, 134777
    • Citations: 14
  6. Publication Title: “Influence of pH and temperature on struvite purity and recovery from anaerobic digestate”
    • Authors: González-Morales, C.; Fernández, B.; Molina, F.J.; Matamoros-Veloza, A.; Camargo-Valero, M.A.
    • Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland), 2021, 13(19), 10730
    • Citations: 26
  7. Publication Title: “Biogas production from slaughterhouse waste: Effect of blood content and fat saponification”
    • Authors: Otero, A.; Mendoza, M.; Carreras, R.; Fernández, B.
    • Journal: Waste Management, 2021, 133, pp. 119–126
    • Citations: 9
  8. Publication Title: “The determination of fertilizer quality of the formed struvite from a WWTP”
    • Authors: González, C.; Fernández, B.; Molina, F.; Camargo-Valero, M.A.; Peláez, C.
    • Journal: Water Science and Technology, 2021, 83(12), pp. 3041–3053
    • Citations: 6
  9. Publication Title: “Combined acidification and solar drying of pig slurries for nutrient recovery and controlled atmospheric emissions”
    • Authors: Prenafeta-Boldú, F.X.; Fernández, B.; Viñas, M.; Soler, J.; Illa, J.
    • Journal: Agronomy, 2021, 11(2), 222
    • Citations: 3
  10. Publication Title: “Solar drying in the vineyard: A sustainable technology for the recovery of nutrients from winery organic waste”
    • Authors: Prenafeta-Boldú, F.X.; Burgos, L.; Noguerol, J.; Mercader, M.; Soler, J.
    • Journal: Water Science and Technology, 2020, 82(1), pp. 27–38
    • Citations: 2

 

 

Marcelo Cohen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Prof. Marcelo Cohen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Full Professor at Federal University of Para, Brazil.

Prof. Marcelo Cohen is a highly skilled researcher in the field of geosciences, possessing expertise in data analysis, interdisciplinary research, fieldwork, laboratory techniques, statistical analysis, literature review, communication, and problem-solving. With a strong foundation in geology, geochemistry, and oceanography, he employs an interdisciplinary approach to tackle complex environmental questions. Prof. Cohen’s proficiency in data analysis, both in the field and laboratory, ensures the accuracy and reliability of his research findings. His ability to integrate diverse perspectives and conduct rigorous statistical analyses enables him to generate comprehensive insights into environmental dynamics. Through effective communication and collaboration, Marcelo disseminates his findings and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in geosciences. Overall, his research skills, coupled with his dedication and commitment, position him as a respected figure in the scientific community, driving impactful research and addressing critical challenges in the field.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Prof. Marcelo Cohen pursued his academic journey with zeal and dedication, culminating in a remarkable educational background. He attained his Ph.D. in Geochemistry from the Federal University of Pará, Brazil, marking the beginning of his scholarly pursuits. Following this, he embarked on a postdoctoral program at the University of São Paulo, Brazil, further enriching his expertise in his field. Driven by a quest for knowledge, he then pursued another Ph.D. at the University of Bremen, Germany, where he excelled in his studies, earning magna cum laude honors. Prior to his doctoral pursuits, Marcelo earned his Master’s degree in Geology and Geochemistry, as well as his Bachelor’s degree in Geology, both from the Federal University of Pará, Brazil. These educational milestones laid a strong foundation for his illustrious career in academia and research.

Research Experience:

Prof. Marcelo Cohen’s research experience is extensive and spans various geographical and interdisciplinary domains. With a focus on paleoclimatology, paleoecology, and sea-level changes, he has conducted pioneering research that contributes to our understanding of Earth’s history and its implications for the future. His expertise extends to the Holocene history of mangrove dynamics, particularly in the Brazilian coast, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean regions. Through meticulous analysis of remote sensing data, fossil pollen, stable isotopes, and sedimentary features, Marcelo reconstructs paleoenvironments affected by climate and sea-level changes over decadal to millennial timescales. His work on the impacts of extreme weather events on mangroves underscores the urgency of climate resilience measures. Prof. Cohen’s research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, drawing from fields such as geology, geochemistry, and oceanography. His contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also provided valuable insights for policymakers and environmental practitioners grappling with the challenges of climate change.

Research Interest:

Prof. Marcelo Cohen’s research interests are diverse and deeply rooted in understanding the complex interactions between Earth’s systems and climate dynamics. His primary focus lies in the fields of paleoclimatology, paleoecology, and sea-level changes. By delving into the past, Marcelo seeks to unravel the intricate patterns of environmental change and their implications for the present and future. He is particularly intrigued by the Holocene history of mangrove dynamics, a critical ecosystem that serves as a barometer for climate variability and resilience. Through innovative methodologies such as remote sensing, fossil pollen analysis, stable isotopes, and sedimentary features, Marcelo reconstructs past environments with precision, shedding light on the drivers of change over different temporal scales. Additionally, his research delves into the impacts of extreme weather events on mangroves, providing valuable insights into ecosystem responses to climate variability. Prof. Cohen’s interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from geology, geochemistry, and oceanography, positions him at the forefront of scientific inquiry into Earth’s past and its implications for the future.

Award and Honors:

Prof. Marcelo Cohen’s dedication and contributions to the field of geosciences have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. As an affiliate member and Young Scientist of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences from 2011 to 2015, he was acknowledged for his outstanding research and scholarly achievements. This prestigious recognition underscores his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and understanding. Additionally, his appointment as a Researcher of Scientific Productivity and Ad Hoc Consultant of the National Council of Scientific and Technological Development (CNPQ) at Level 1B since 2004 reflects his ongoing impact and influence in the field. Prof. Cohen’s work has also been acknowledged internationally, as evidenced by his membership in the Commission on Stratigraphy and Chronology (SACCOM) of the International Union for Quaternary Research (INQUA). These honors reflect not only his individual achievements but also the broader recognition of his contributions to the scientific community.

Research Skills:

Prof. Marcelo Cohen’s research skills are a testament to his proficiency and dedication in the field of geosciences. With a strong foundation in data analysis, he navigates complex datasets with precision, extracting valuable insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of environmental dynamics. His interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise in geology, geochemistry, and oceanography, enables him to integrate diverse perspectives and generate comprehensive research outcomes. Proficient in fieldwork techniques, he conducts meticulous observations and sample collection, enriching his research with firsthand data. In the laboratory, Marcelo’s adeptness in various analytical methods ensures the accuracy and reliability of his findings, while his statistical acumen allows for rigorous interpretation of results. Coupled with his talent for synthesizing existing knowledge through literature reviews, he identifies research gaps and formulates impactful research questions. Through effective communication and problem-solving skills, Marcelo disseminates his findings and fosters collaboration within the scientific community. Overall, Prof. Cohen’s research skills exemplify his commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing critical challenges in geosciences.

Publications:

  1. A 1500-year multi-proxy record of subtropical mangrove dynamics in relation to sea level and climate changes on Babitonga Bay, Southern Brazil
    • Authors: Torres, A.E.C.; França, M.C.; Borges da Silva, F.A.; …; Pessenda, L.C.R.; Macario, K.
    • Year: 2024
  2. Miocene tropical storms: Carbonate framework approaches and geochemistry proxies in a reservoir model
    • Authors: Aguilera, O.; De Araújo, O.M.O.; Lopes, R.T.; …; Giraud-López, M.J.; Kütter, V.T.
    • Citations: 4
    • Year: 2023
  3. Eco-morphological evolution of the Bolivar Peninsula (Texas, U.S.A.) during the last 2,000 years: A multi-proxy record of coastal environmental changes
    • Authors: Yao, Q.; Liu, K.-B.; Fan, D.; …; De Oliveira, P.E.; Rodrigues, E.
    • Year: 2023
  4. Assessment the Impacts of Sea-Level Changes on Mangroves of Ceará-Mirim Estuary, Northeastern Brazil, during the Holocene and Anthropocene
    • Authors: Nunes, S.P.D.Q.; França, M.C.; Cohen, M.C.L.; …; Magalhães, E.A.S.; Silva, F.A.B.
    • Citations: 2
    • Year: 2023
  5. What Are the Most Effective Proxies in Identifying Storm-Surge Deposits in Paleotempestology? A Quantitative Evaluation From the Sand-Limited, Peat-Dominated Environment of the Florida Coastal Everglades
    • Authors: Yao, Q.; Liu, K.-B.; Zhang, Z.; …; Maiti, K.; Yang, Y.
    • Citations: 2
    • Year: 2023
  6. A palynological record of mangrove biogeography, coastal geomorphological change, and prehistoric human activities from Cedar Keys, Florida, U.S.A.
    • Authors: Yao, Q.; Liu, K.-B.; Rodrigues, E.; Fan, D.; Cohen, M.
    • Citations: 8
    • Year: 2023
  7. Pollen atlas and identification dataset from Santa Catarina, south Brazil
    • Authors: Rodrigues, E.; Cohen, M.C.L.; Figueiredo, B.L.; Liu, K.-B.; Yao, Q.
    • Citations: 1
    • Year: 2023
  8. A timely method for post-disaster assessment and coastal landscape survey using drone and satellite imagery
    • Authors: Cohen, M.C.L.; de Souza, A.V.; Liu, K.-B.; Yao, Q.
    • Citations: 4
    • Year: 2023
  9. Death and Regeneration of an Amazonian Mangrove Forest by Anthropic and Natural Forces
    • Authors: Cardenas, S.M.M.; Cohen, M.C.L.; Ruiz, D.P.C.; …; Pessenda, L.C.R.; Culligan, N.
    • Citations: 6
    • Year: 2022
  10. Mangrove expansion at poleward range limits in North and South America: Late-Holocene climate variability or anthropocene global warming?
    • Authors: Yao, Q.; Cohen, M.; Liu, K.-B.; …; Yin, D.; Carlos Ruiz Pessenda, L.
    • Citations: 12
    • Year: 2022