The Hitachi Global Foundation Asia Innovation Award is an award program launched in 2020 to promote science, technology and innovation that contributes to solving social issues and realizing a sustainable society in the ASEAN region.
This award recognizes individuals and groups that undeniably served public interests through their outstanding achievements in research and development (R&D) in the fields of science and technology, including their visions of an ideal future society and social implementation plans for R&D as a means of achieving SDGs.
In the fiscal year of 2024, we solicited research and R&D achievements from 26 universities and research institutions in 6 ASEAN countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam) contributing to each of selected targets of Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).
Goal 12 "Responsible Consumption and Production"
Targets 12.2 Achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, 12.3 Reduce food losses along production and supply chains, 12.4 Significantly reduce emissions of chemicals and all wastes to air, water and soil, 12.5 Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse, 12.8 Sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature, 12.a Strengthen scientific and technological capacity
Goal 13 "Climate Action"
Targets 13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity, 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning, 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity, 13.b Focus on women, youth and local and marginalized communities
We received applications from eligible universities and research institutions by recommendation, and the 14 recipients were selected through document screening and an online interview by the selection committee.
We would like to introduce the selection committee members, the review by chairperson of the selection committee, the outline of the awardee's research, and the awardee’s greetings as follows.
Chair Monte Cassim, Professor
President, Chair of the Board, Akita International University
Yasuyuki Kono, Dr. Agri.
Vice-President for International Strategy, Kyoto University
Yuri Sato, Dr.
Executive Vice President, The Japan Foundation
Yoshitaka Nishino, Dr. Eng.
Professor, Deputy Director
Headquarters for International Industry-University Collaboration, University of Tsukuba
Eisaku MAEDA, Dr. Eng.
Dean and Professor, School of System Design and Technology, Tokyo Denki University
Monte Cassim, Chairperson of the selection committee
The Hitachi Global Foundation Asia Innovation Award is an award program launched in 2020 to promote science, technology, and innovation that contributes to solving social issues and realizing a sustainable society in the ASEAN region. This award has been recognizing individuals and groups that undeniably served public interests through their outstanding achievements in research and development (R&D) in the fields of science and technology, including their visions of an ideal future society and social implementation plans for R&D as a means of achieving the United Nation's SDGs.
In fiscal year 2024, we solicited research and R&D achievements from 22 universities and 4 institutions in 6 ASEAN countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam) contributing to each of selected targets of Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).
As this program enters its fifth year, we have observed a notable improvement in the quality of research being considered for the award. This year, we received more submissions related to Goal 12 than Goal 13, and there was a heightened interest in research connected to industrial technologies. These trends reflect a growing movement in Southeast Asia towards linking research with social implementation.
Particularly noteworthy were projects that demonstrated a good balance between research and social implementation. These included initiatives that had achieved significant research outcomes, such as obtaining patents, and were conducting pilot projects for product development in collaboration with local companies. Such projects received high evaluations from the selection committee.
While differences in research levels between countries persist, we are committed to continuing our careful deliberations from various perspectives when selecting award-winning projects. We aim to actively encourage research that is deeply rooted in local contexts and contributes to addressing regional challenges.
The Selection Committee conducted a rigorous selection process between September and October 2024, comprehensively evaluating applications, academic papers, other supporting materials, and online interviews, as well as considering the differences in national R&D capabilities. In the end, we selected a total of 14 research and R&D achievements (1 Best Innovation Award, 4 Outstanding Innovation Awards and 9 Encouragement Awards) and recommended a total amount of 11,500,000 Yen for the approval of the President of the Foundation.
We hope that this prestigious award will serve as a significant driving force for the recipients to bring their visions to fruition.
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Best Innovation Award
 "Zero Waste Process of Brown Seaweed for Environmentally Friendly Aquaculture Disease Control and Bio Fertilizer Production" Target 12.2 12.4 12.5 12.8 12.a |
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| Name | Alim Isnansetyo |  |
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| Affiliation/Title | Professor Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture Gadjah Mada University (UGM) |
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| Country | Republic of Indonesia  |
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| Research Title | "Zero Waste Process of Brown Seaweed, Sargassum sp. for Environmentally Friendly Aquaculture Disease Control and Bio Fertilizer Production" | |
| Social Issue |
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| Achievement of R&D | Brown seaweed, Sargassum sp. are seaweeds that are abundant and have not been exploited commercially in Indonesia. Alginate is the main carbohydrate compound of Sargassum sp. In addition, Sargassum sp. also contains fucoidan, a bioactive sulfated carbohydrate. I made an innovation to use alginate and fucoidan as an immunostimulant in fish and shrimp aquaculture with simple methods by supplementing fish feed. Fucoidan is also incorporated as an adjuvant in the Vibriosis vaccine. The applications of immunostimulants and vaccines in aquaculture are environmentally friendly ways to combat disease because they can reduce or even eliminate the use of antibiotics. The Sargassum sp. by-product after alginate and fucoidan extraction can be used for producing bio-fertilizers by fermentation process to establish a zero-waste process. The R&D achievements can be classified as follows:
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| Social Implementation | Fish farmers need simple, effective, and environmentally friendly technology to control fish diseases. In addition, farmers also need high-quality bio-fertilizer at affordable prices. The products of this R and D have been implemented at various business levels and farmer groups. The innovative products, especially immunostimulants have been implemented for small-scale fish farmers and social organizations, by conducting training and application in fish culture. The training and application of fucoidan-adjuvanted vaccine have been carried out for the fish farmers group, and small and medium scale private companies. The fucoidan-adjuvanted vaccine has been distributed to marine fish farmers and implemented to improve the immune system of fish. Commercially, the vaccine will be marketed by a private company under a signed MoU. The implementations have also collaborated with marine and fisheries agency in several provinces. Furthermore, the bio-fertilizer produced from the waste of sequential extraction of Sargassum is ready to be up scaled for mass production. | |
| Social Impact, Contribution to the SDGs | Zero waste production system of immunostimulant, a fucoidan-adjuvanted vaccine, and bio-fertilizer contribute significantly to sustainable aquaculture and agriculture for improving productivity. This R&D contributes to achieving the number 12 SDGs goal (responsible production and consumption) with the target of efficient use of natural resources and reducing emissions and waste. Furthermore, it contributes to the achievement of SDG goals number 2 (zero hunger), 3 (Good health and well-being), 6, 8, 14, and 17). | |
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| Message from Awardee | The seaweed zero-waste production system (SZwPS) and circular economy are essential for sustainable aquaculture and agriculture. Integrated seaweed upstream-downstream industries are an Indonesian economic development priority to maximize the role of the blue economy. The blue economy based on (SZwPS) contributes significantly to SDG's goals achievement, especially Responsible Consumption and Production. | |
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Outstanding Innovation Award
 "Synthesis of Nanomaterials from Biomass for Applications in Furfural Production and Wastewater Treatment" Target 12.4 12.5 |
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| Name | Hieu Huu Nguyen |  |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor, Dr. Faculty of Chemical Engineering Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT) |
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| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam  |
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| Research Title | "Synthesis of Nanomaterials from Biomass for Applications in Furfural Production and Wastewater Treatment" | |
| Social Issue | Contamination from organic dyes, heavy metals, and antibiotics endangers human health and ecosystems. Additionally, the surplus release of agricultural by-products generates limited economic value while imposing significant costs for proper waste management and processing. These challenges highlight the urgent need for sustainable development and reduction of environmental pollution. | |
| Achievement of R&D | Developing bio-based materials offers a pathway to expand product applications, improve sustainability, and boost consumer acceptance, addressing both economic and environmental concerns. Enhanced biofuel production methods can yield cleaner, more efficient alternatives to traditional fuels, contributing to reduced air pollution. Additionally, these materials can be transformed into effective agents for environmental remediation, targeting contaminants such as heavy metals and organic pollutants (e.g., antibiotics, and dyes). With a focus on innovative synthesis and optimization techniques, bio-based materials stand as promising solutions for sustainable environmental and industrial applications. | |
| Social Implementation | Expanding research into practical applications, particularly in wastewater treatment, plays a vital role in addressing environmental pollution and supporting sustainable development. By collaborating with businesses, pilot projects can be scaled up to treat real wastewater, with outcomes measured against international water quality standards to ensure safety in local water bodies. Furthermore, leveraging natural resources in innovative ways contributes to social development by linking technological advancements with sustainable practices. Organizing global workshops, training, and collaborative research initiatives across laboratories fosters scientific progress and delivers sustainable solutions aimed at enhancing environmental health, reducing emissions, and improving the overall quality of life. | |
| Social Impact, Contribution to the SDGs | Utilizing biomass resources fosters environmental protection through waste reduction and pollution remediation. It promotes economic growth via job creation and energy security while improving public health by reducing pollution and enhancing access to clean water. Additionally, it supports sustainable development, mitigates climate change, and enhances rural livelihoods. | |
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| Message from Awardee | Together, through innovations in advanced materials research and application, we strive to make a meaningful contribution by converting waste biomass into materials that can be applied to generate energy clean, remediate the environment, and minimize climate change, providing a better living environment for future generations. | |
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Outstanding Innovation Award
"Geopolymers and Alkali-Activated Materials as Eco-Innovative Composite Products" Target 12.2 12.4 12.5 12.a |
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| Name | Michael Angelo Baliwag Promentilla |  |
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| Affiliation/Title | Professor Chemical Engineering Waste and Resource Management Unit of the Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research (CESDR) De La Salle University (DLSU) |
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| Country | Republic of the Philippines  |
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| Research Title | "Transforming Industrial Waste as Resource for Green Cementitious Materials: Geopolymer and Alkali-Activated Material as Eco-Innovative Composite Products" | |
| Social Issue | We face critical environmental and industrial challenges such as high carbon emissions from cement production, unsustainable resource use, industrial waste management issues, mainly coal fly ash and mining waste. Meanwhile, our growing cities need more buildings and infrastructure built from sustainable cementitious materials with lower carbon footprints. | |
| Achievement of R&D | Our research program provides a portfolio of solutions in sustainable construction by developing innovative geopolymer technology and alkali-activated materials with lower embodied carbon that transform locally available industrial waste into valuable building materials. These include the addition of natural waste fibers and microorganisms to improve its mechanical properties and self-healing capability, respectively. Our eco-friendly material from coal-fly ash and nickel laterite mine waste has been successfully demonstrated in the form of pavers installed at the De La Salle University Laguna campus, proving its potential real-world viability. We've secured at least two patents and one utility model while publishing more than 30 scientific papers showcasing the innovation's technical success and its potential for wide-scale implementation. | |
| Social Implementation | Our proposed social implementation will provide a transformative solution that connects multiple industries in a circular economic approach. Using waste from coal-fired power plants and mining operations to create construction materials, we're helping decarbonize the building industry while solving waste management challenges. Our approach to working with local government units and partner industries demonstrates this interconnected system. The project would create green jobs through local workforce training, engage universities for knowledge sharing, and collaborate with the building and construction sector to use these sustainable materials, including in their future application to 3D printed constructions. This integrated approach reduces carbon emissions and transforms waste from one industry into valuable resources for another. | |
| Social Impact, Contribution to the SDGs | Our research program advances multiple SDGs: reduces carbon emissions (SDG13), promotes responsible consumption (SDG12), creates local jobs (SDG8), supports sustainable infrastructure (SDG9), and enables sustainable cities (SDG11). It aims to transform industrial waste into valuable resources while creating economic opportunities in sustainable construction. | |
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| Message from Awardee | Imagine our preferred future where buildings are constructed with materials that heal themselves, where industrial waste becomes a valuable resource, and where construction helps heal our planet rather than harm it. Through our innovation, we're not just building structures - we're building our sustainable, climate-resilient future. | |
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Outstanding Innovation Award
"Research and Development of Pharmaceutical Products Derived from Vietnamese Endemic Medicinal Plants" Target 12.2 12.4 12.5 12.8 12.a |
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| Name | Nhung Ai Thi Nguyen |  |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor, Ph.D. Chemistry Department Head of Physical Chemistry Section, Chemistry Department Director of Center for Research, Production and Technology Transfer, Institute of Applied Research in Science and Technology Hue University (HU) |
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| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam |
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| Research Title | "Research and Development of Pharmaceutical Products from Endemic Medicinal Plants by Environmental-friendly Extraction Technology and Modern Simulation Methods" | |
| Social Issue | Pollution, climate change, and pesticide residues not only harm health but also contribute to antibiotic resistance, reducing the effectiveness of drugs. Research into natural-origin drug aims to enhance treatments, boost immunity, and reduce resistance. However, unsustainable herbal harvesting can damage the environment. Combining simulation, experimentation, and eco-friendly extraction methods provide effective, timely treatments for diseases. | |
| Achievement of R&D | Developing a national medicinal herb database for Thua Thien Hue facilitates effective management and conservation by providing essential data on indigenous and rare plants. Conservation areas for medicinal herbs have been established in Bach Ma National Park and Phong Dien Nature Reserve, while nurseries test and propagate endemic species. Advanced extraction methods are employed to safely isolate bioactive compounds. These initiatives promote green production, raise public awareness, and enhance educational programs. A technology center fosters research in medicinal chemistry and sustainable development. The research focuses on the biological and chemical analysis of endemic medicinal plants such as Distichochlamys spp., Cordyceps spp., to develop treatments for bacterial infections and disease syndrome treatments, utilizing computational modeling and laboratory experiments to address antibiotic resistance. | |
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| Social Impact, Contribution to the SDGs | Research results enable large-scale production of high-quality Vietnamese health products, benefiting both public health and economic growth. A joint venture with HUSCI facilitates the commercialization of medicinal herbs, herbal teas, and mushrooms. Intellectual property is managed by the Science Institute of Hue University’s Science Institute. Transfer options include technical process transfers, partnerships, and direct product transfers. | |
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| Message from Awardee | The 2024 Hitachi Global Foundation Asia Innovation Award honors contributions to scientific research, technology, and innovation, especially in natural medicinal substances and sustainable development. This recognition promotes Vietnamese medicinal plants, responsible production, and global sustainability. We are committed to advancing research for community benefit and fostering sustainable practices for a prosperous future. | |
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Outstanding Innovation Award
"Production of Mycoprotein Utilizing Byproducts from the Tempeh Industry" Target 12.2 12.4 12.5 |
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| Name | Rachma Wikandari |  |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor, Dr. Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology Gadjah Mada University (UGM) |
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| Country | Republic of Indonesia |
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| Research Title | "Conversion of Food Industrial by Products to Mycoprotein as Nutritious, Sustainable, and Affordable Alternative Protein to Strengthen Circular Economy and Food Security" | |
| Social Issue | Indonesia's tempeh industry produces approximately 3,057,000 liters of soybean boiling water a day, contributing to significant environmental load. My research transforms this by-product into nutrient-rich mycoprotein using filamentous fungi. This innovative, sustainable protein source addresses Indonesia's protein needs, reduces waste, and enhances the value of food industry by-products through circular economy principles. | |
| Achievement of R&D | Our team successfully cultivated and produced mycoprotein from soybean boiling water, resulting in a nutrient-rich product with a high protein and fiber content, low fat, as well as complete essential amino acids. This mycoprotein has been formulated into various meat analogs, which were sensory tested by 200 participants, with the majority finding them acceptable. Additionally, over 80% of consumer test participants expressed willingness to purchase these products. This research has received significant funding support from Indonesian sources (Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, Loreal Indonesia) and international sources (Swedish Research Council). The project has also been recognized by the IUFoST for its innovation in food science. | |
| Social Implementation | The social implementation plan for my R&D project aims to collaborate with tempeh factories, converting their soybean boiling water into mycoprotein to produce meat analogues for commercialization. With over 81,000 tempeh producers generating substantial waste daily, this initiative could improve the livelihoods of industry workers. Currently, we collaborate with UD Super Dangsul, one of the biggest tempe industry in Yogyakarta Province. A successful partnership could lead to broader applications in similar industries, promoting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and enhancing protein availability across Indonesia. | |
| Social Impact, Contribution to the SDGs | This R&D initiative converts by-products from the tempeh industry into sustainable mycoprotein, tackling protein scarcity and advancing waste management. It supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through Targets 2.1, 2.3, and 2.4, and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) via Targets 12.2, 12.4, and 12.5, enhancing food security and reducing waste in Indonesia. | |
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| Message from Awardee | It is a great honor to receive this outstanding innovation award from The Hitachi Global Foundation. I am grateful to The Hitachi Global Foundation for its commitment to fostering impactful research that addresses critical challenges in developing countries, and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I strongly hope to see more research in Indonesia that is deeply rooted in pressing local issues but addressed through a global approach and multi-stakeholder collaboration, enabling broader and more substantial impact across communities and sectors. | |
 "Development of Highly Active Gold Catalysts and Biomass-based Nanocomposites Using Mechano-chemistry and Surface Approaches (MCS)" Target 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.8 12.a |
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| Name | Dien Xuan Luong |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor, Senior Lecturer, Vice Director of Center for Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship School of Chemistry and Life Science Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) |
| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam |
| Research Title | "Development of Highly Active Gold Catalysts and Biomass-based Nanocomposites Using Mechano-chemistry and Surface Approaches (MCS) to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)" |
| Summary Green industrial and agricultural production and the environment required new technologies with less pollution and highly effective operations (energy-saving; without wastewater and toxic substances in solid and gas states). Human demands always need better and more convenience while they have healthier living and also need tools to prevent disasters (powerful materials and devices for controlling and supporting living activities and health care). He pioneered the use of mechanochemistry and surface engineering to develop innovative catalytic materials for sustainable applications. These approaches enabled the creation of highly active gold catalysts capable of operating below 0 °C and under high humidity, revolutionizing air purification technologies. In waste and biomass valorization, he combined mechanochemical techniques with green hydrothermal carbonization to transform waste into functional materials with enhanced porosity, morphology, and surface properties. These materials found applications in energy, environment, medicine, and air purification. His mechanochemistry-based advancements also led to the development of vanadium- and manganese-based DeNOx catalysts, optimized through surface engineering for high efficiency. Successfully implemented by Vietnam Electricity Corporation, these catalysts provided effective solutions for NOx emissions in thermal power plants. Through these innovations, he established a foundation for scalable, eco-friendly technologies with broad applications in sustainability and environmental protection. The application of MCS technology enhances the quality of human life across three key dimensions: socially, it creates more jobs, adds value, and expands opportunities; environmentally, it fosters greener practices and promotes sustainability; and financially, it drives wealth generation through production valorization, improves healthcare and food quality, and enables energy savings. Our technologies help us with green production and environment, healthier living (without wastewater and controlling exhaust gases, toxic reagents such as mercury, preventing climate change - Goal 12 and Goal 13), healthful and nutrient-dense foods, biomass valorization to increase farmer’s income and proper technology solutions for energy, environment, and healthcare (Goal 12 and Goal 13). |
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 "Promoting Climate Resilience through Improving the Weather Predictability in Indonesia Using Ensemble Forecast" Target 13.1 |
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| Name | Heri Kuswanto |
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| Affiliation/Title | Professor Department of Statistics & Center for Disaster Mitigation and Climate Change Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS) |
| Country | Republic of Indonesia |
| Research Title | "Promoting Climate Resilience through Improving the Weather Predictability in Indonesia Using Ensemble Forecast" |
| Summary Climate change increases weather unpredictability, posing significant risks to Indonesian agriculture and livelihoods. Our R&D has developed an ensemble-based drought monitoring and forecasting system and a novel calibration method using gamma and Fréchet distributions to improve sub-seasonal and extreme event predictions, such as heavy rainfall. Additionally, we created an artificial ensemble forecast that performs well for stable weather events and has been used to develop a planting calendar. To maximize social impact, we ensure these tools are accessible to local communities, particularly rural farmers, as part of a broader climate adaptation strategy. This approach empowers communities to better prepare for climate-related hazards and improve resilience. Our efforts support informed decision-making and align with SDG 13: Climate Action by fostering proactive measures to reduce disaster risk, protect livelihoods, and promote sustainable development in response to a changing climate. |
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 "Development of Versatile Biofunctionalized Biomedical Materials for Infection Control and Immune Modulation" Target 13.1 13.3 |
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| Name | Ika Dewi Ana |
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| Affiliation/Title | Professor Dental Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry Gadjah Mada University (UGM) |
| Country | Republic of Indonesia |
| Research Title | "Development of Versatile Biofunctionalized Biomedical Materials for Infection Control and Immune Modulation towards Adaptive Healthcare Technology" |
| Summary Rising infection rates and autoimmune diseases linked to climate change demand extended antibiotic treatments that are often costly, less effective, and contribute to antibiotic resistance. This raises the urgent need for safe, dual-functional technologies that both fight infections and bolster immune defenses. In response, our study has developed carbonate apatite (CHA) nanoparticles, which can be biofunctionalized to deliver adaptive responses to viral outbreaks and other infections, helping mitigate societal impacts driven by climate shifts. Our innovation lays the groundwork for future drug and vaccine development to address emerging diseases. Aligned with SDG Goal 12, this approach aims to strengthen society's resilience and adaptability. In addition, building a collaborative network among biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, government, and academia will foster sustainable innovation, advancing SDGs 3, 8, 9, and 11. |
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 "Understanding Philippine Lakes’ Contribution to Global Methane Budget" Target 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.b |
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| Name | Milette Mendoza Pascual |
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| Affiliation/Title | Assistant Professor Environmental Science Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) |
| Country | Republic of the Philippines |
| Research Title | "Understanding Philippine Lakes’ Contribution to Global Methane Budget" |
| Summary Tropical lakes have great potential to play as both sinks and sources of methane (CH4), a more potent greenhouse gas compared to carbon dioxide. We aim to lay the groundwork in documenting stored lake CH4 concentrations in Philippine lakes. As lakes require a well-designed monitoring scheme and in-depth analysis to understand trade-offs among the lakes’ ecosystem services and their looping feedback to the changing environment, this work should describe the lake CH4 produced, stored, and emitted, and scale its significance to global CH4 budgets. We tried to describe the natural factors affecting the CH4 dynamics in tropical lakes. Specifically, these factors include CH4-driven trophic pathways and different lake mixing regimes. Our future directions should focus on the closer look on the changes in tropical lakes’ CH4 production and contribution to atmospheric greenhouse gases when faced with sudden physical disturbances and extreme environmental changes, and anthropogenic threats such as eutrophication as well as establishing long-term lake monitoring in different parts of the country. As for the impact we are making through this project, local partnerships, collaborations and student involvement were being sustained to strengthen our motivations. We envision that our work will help enhance the sustainable management of our limited freshwater resources. On a bigger scale, this should contribute useful data and novel knowledge to the scientific community, experts, and stakeholders in creating models and environmental management targets and plans in the hopes to maintain the Earth’s future climate. |
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 "Management of Pig Manure Pollution Effect to Environment and Climate Change at Luangprabang Province, Lao PDR" Target 13.1 13.2 13.b |
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| Name | Nouphone Manivanh |
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| Affiliation/Title | Ph.D. Head of Department of Animal Science Faculty of Agriculture and Forest Resources Department of Animal Science Souphanouvong University (SU) |
| Country | Lao People's Democratic Republic  |
| Research Title | "Management of Pig Manure Pollution Effect to Environment and Climate Change by Raising Pig in Deep Pit Litter System at Luangprabang Province, Lao PDR" |
| Summary Major challenges on smallholder pig farm are poorly practical management, un-control disease, poor nutritional diets, low liter sizes of sows, high mortality of piglets and the farmers keep their pig in free-scavenging system that improper animal health, and bad smell in the community. Hence, the main objectives project tries to solve this problem especially how to increase growth performance of the pig with low cost. The application of microorganism fermentation is possible to improve the nutritive value of local feed (Cassava root) which helps in reducing feed cost and bringing economic benefits to the farmers, together with raising pig in deep pit litter system helps to reduce the methane gas emission that is a problem of animal production regarding climate change. All the activities had 120 participants, after finishing the project:
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 "Eco-strategies for Rice-fish Cultivation Sustainability" Target 12.4 12.5 12.8 12.a |
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| Name | Phuong Nguyen Xuan Vo |
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| Affiliation/Title |
Dr. Faculty of Applied Sciences Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU) |
| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam |
| Research Title | "Eco-strategies for Rice-fish Cultivation Sustainability" |
| Summary High dose of fertilizer used for intensive agriculture and high release rate of N, P and organic C from intensive aquaculture have driven climate change, fisheries decline and pollutes entire ecosystem of the Lower Mekong Basin. We developed naturally slow-released 18-7-7-TE and 8-15-15-TE fertilizer pellets from fish pond sediment, rice husk ash, inorganic NPK precursors and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens biostimulant, releasing sufficient nutrients for rice healthy growth. During the 1-year cultivation of OM-5451 rice variety in a 2000-m2 field, comparable yield and quality of rice, two-fold increase of nitrogen utilization efficiency and two-fold decrease of fertilizer and pesticide costs, significantly reduced nutrient run-off to the water column have been observed. A guide practice, including rate/frequency of the fertilizer application and field water management during various seasons have been proposed to avoid fertilizer overdosage and resultant nutrient runoff. This work has shown mutual benefits of agricultural economics and environmental resilience in a sustainable way. |
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 "Conversion of Paper Waste Sludge into Bacterial Nanocellulose for Sustainable Paper Production" Target 12.2 12.5 |
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| Name | Quan Dinh Nguyen |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor Faculty of Chemical Engineering Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT) |
| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam |
| Research Title | "Conversion of Paper Waste Sludge into Bacterial Nanocellulose for Sustainable Paper Production" |
| Summary This research addresses the social issue of excessive waste and pollution from paper mills, particularly the disposal of paper sludge. Traditional methods of sludge management, such as incineration or burial, waste resources and contribute to environmental degradation. Through innovative R&D, this project has developed a method to hydrolyze paper sludge, which is then converted to bacterial nanocellulose via fermentation. This material can be reintegrated into recycled paper, enhancing quality and simplifying production, as well as other potential applications. Social implementation involves pilot testing at paper mills, aiming for scalable application. The solution contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by reducing waste, conserving resources, and creating a circular economy in paper production. This approach helps utilizing waste to create new economic opportunities within the paper industry. |
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 "Cambodian Soybean Innovation through Value Addition of Soybean Meal and Soybean Residues" Target 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.a |
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| Name | Reasmey Tan |
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| Affiliation/Title | Assistant Professor, Dr. Deputy Director of Research and Innovation Center Food Technology and Nutrition Research Unit, Research and Innovation Center Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) |
| Country | Kingdom of Cambodia  |
| Research Title | "Soybean Innovation for Achieving Sustainability of Cambodian Soybeans and Zero-waste by Turning Soybean Cake and Soybean Residue into High-value Added Products" |
| Summary Cambodia is an agricultural country where soybeans are grown for local consumption and exportation. However, Cambodian soybean oil has not yet been introduced into the markets. In addition, the quality of local soy sauces still needs to be improved. Moreover, large amounts of soybean residue (okara) obtained from soymilk and tofu processing should be transformed into high value-added products as well as the soybean cake from soybean oil extraction. As achievements, the soybean oil extraction, refining conditions, and blending of oils were optimized. The soy sauce fermentation process using different raw materials, enzymes, defatted soybean cake, and germinated soybeans was evaluated. Cookies, gluten-free cookies and tempeh can be made by using okara. Blended oil should be considered for Cambodian people as it is healthy oil that provides many health benefits. And soy sauce made by germinated soybeans provides higher levels of bioactive compounds, and amino acid nitrogen. Thus, food waste reduction can also be achieved. This can contribute to SDG 12 "Responsible Consumption and Production", especially Target 12.2-12.5 and 12.a. |
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 "Development of Health Benefit and Sustainable Plant-based Products from Vietnamese Agriculture Crops" Target 12.2 12.a |
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| Name | Trang Thu Vu |
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| Affiliation/Title | Associate Professor, Deputy Head Department of Food Engineering School of Chemistry and Life Sciences Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) |
| Country | Socialist Republic of Viet Nam |
| Research Title | "Development of Health Benefit and Sustainable Plant-based Products from Vietnamese Agriculture Crops" |
| Summary The production alternative dairy products from Vietnamese agriculture products such as plant-based/analogue drink, yogurt and cheese have significant impacts on climate change and on the protection of ecosystems by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in comparing with animal products. They also create a complete nutritional source of amino acids and fatty acids to consumers, making an important contribution to the community's nutritional resources, minimizing the shortage of fresh milk (provide only 30 % of demand of Vietnamese market), and enhancing the added value of local agricultural products with lower price, helping a wider range of consumers. This is of great importance to public health, suitable for busy modern society, promotes model lifestyles in harmony with nature. The transfer of our innovation technology in industrial processing will support for the Vietnamese industrial companies strengthening their scientific and technological capacity in sustainable processing, creates jobs and promotes local culture products. Our research works contribute to the SDG 3; 12; 12a; 12.2; 12.9. |
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Reference link
The Hitachi Global Foundation
Office of The Hitachi Global Foundation Asia Innovation Award
