Carbon8 Systems Ltd Triumphs in Springboard National Final 2008

2008-03-06 09:53:34

Carbon8 Systems Ltd - a project that can turn everyday rubbish from landfill into building materials such as bricks has scooped the top prize in this years Shell Springboard National Final.

Based in Kent the company scooped the award for its Accelerated Carbonation process, beating off competition from over 130 other Springboard entrants throughout the UK.

Prof. John Beddington, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Government and Shell UK's Chairman James Smith presented the award last night to Dr Paula Carey, Commercial Director and Robert Williams, CEO at London's Grosvenor House hotel.

It had been a grueling day for Paula and Robert who presented their case to the judges in a head-to-head battle with five other UK finalists.

The winners Carbon8 Systems Ltd pictured (from back row left to right) Lord Oxburgh, Prof. John Beddington and Prof. Stef Simons. Front row - Colin Hills, Robert Williams, James Smith, Chairman of Shell UK and Paula Carey.

Paula Carey, said: "Winning this award has already opened doors for us. We've confirmed a partnership with Kent Council to create a pilot project on a local landfill site. It's a really positive move for the business and demonstrates how forward thinking our council is when it comes to tackling climate change."

In addition to receiving £40,000 in Springboard funding, Paula and Robert will also visit the Ferrari Factory in Italy and benefit from a 2 day business consultancy session.

James Smith, Chairman of Shell UK, said: "Carbon8 Systems Ltd embodies the creative thinking that so many of this year's contenders have shown - combining business acumen and environmental awareness to best effect. Shell Springboard aims to support firms whose ideas are both environmentally and commercially sound - and once again the finalists have proved there are great innovators out there who can make a valuable difference. They're an inspiration to other UK businesses."

Professor John Beddington, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Government and keynote speaker at the event, said: "We need innovators to provide solutions to the problem of climate change and entrepreneurs to take them to market - and that's what Shell Springboard is all about."

Runner-up to Carbon8 Systems Ltd was 2D Heat Ltd based in Liverpool, which has developed a new element which can be sprayed onto the article that needs to be heated - for example a hob or back panel of an oven.

For more information on the UK finalists please see Winning Ideas 2008.