Each year, the MIT Technology Review compiles a distinguished list of 35 innovators under the age of 35, spotlighting individuals who are making significant contributions to technology. The latest edition showcases nine remarkable innovators focused on climate and energy, each with unique backgrounds and a commitment to tackling pressing environmental challenges.
This year’s awardees highlight the intersection of artificial intelligence and climate technology. AI has emerged as a pivotal player, offering both opportunities and challenges. Innovators like Jae-Won Chung are leading the charge by developing software to enhance the energy efficiency of AI applications. His work aims to quantify the energy consumption of open-source AI models, thus advancing the industry’s understanding of AI’s environmental impact. Other innovators are also leveraging AI for environmental monitoring; Jing Wei is utilizing machine learning to improve pollution tracking, while Zhonghua Zheng is creating AI-driven climate models tailored for urban settings, addressing a gap in conventional methodologies.
As the demand for sustainable technologies grows, the availability of critical materials becomes increasingly vital. Lithium, essential for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems, is at the forefront of this concern. With potential shortages looming, innovators are seeking alternative extraction methods. Mohammad Alkhadra, CEO of Lithios, is pioneering a more efficient lithium extraction process from brines, while Benjamin Mowbray, co-founder of Rock Zero, is focused on hardrock ore extraction. Beyond materials, the push for net-zero emissions requires a comprehensive approach across various industries. Laureen Meroueh is innovating cleaner steel production with a novel furnace design, while Joseph Nguthiru is developing bioplastics from invasive weeds, aiming to replace fossil fuel-derived packaging. Additionally, Jinyoung Seo is working on solid refrigerants that promise to reduce energy consumption significantly. This diverse group of innovators demonstrates that addressing climate change involves rethinking not just energy sources, but also materials and processes across the board. For an in-depth look at all the featured innovators, explore the complete 2026 list from MIT Technology Review.
Source: Meet the innovators under 35 shaping climate tech via MIT Technology Review