Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Mr. Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Mr. Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability – Senior Sustainability Scientist at Amazon, United States

Zaid Thanawala is a renowned sustainability scientist with a proven track record in innovative solutions aimed at decarbonization and energy efficiency. He is currently serving as a Senior Sustainability Scientist at Amazon, where he leads the development of AI-powered tools for life cycle assessments (LCAs) and decarbonization models. His work is not only limited to technological advancements but also extends to strategic initiatives that help large corporations meet their sustainability targets. With expertise in sustainable systems, energy technologies, and chemical engineering, Zaid has played an instrumental role in integrating sustainability into business operations, contributing to global efforts towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy.

Profile:

Google Scholar

Education:


Zaid Thanawala’s academic journey reflects his commitment to sustainability and scientific innovation. He holds a Master of Science in Sustainable Systems from the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he achieved a perfect CGPA of 4/4, securing a full scholarship. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Technologies at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, with a CGPA of 3.67/4 and a part scholarship. Zaid also earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College in Mumbai, India, where he graduated with a CGPA of 7.3/10. His rigorous academic background laid the foundation for his pioneering work in sustainability science and innovation.

Experience:


Zaid Thanawala’s professional experience spans across leading corporations and institutions, where he has significantly impacted sustainability strategies. At Amazon, he leads several initiatives, including the development of automated life cycle assessment tools and forecasting models for renewable energy needs, saving valuable resources and optimizing sustainability efforts. Previously, Zaid worked as a Sustainability Data Analyst at Salesforce, where he managed the company’s carbon footprint reporting and helped procure renewable energy to meet the company’s public commitments. He also held the position of Sustainability Engineer at Owens-Illinois, where he contributed to the development of a life cycle assessment tool for glass manufacturing and played a key role in the company’s decarbonization efforts. His experience across diverse industries has given him a unique ability to innovate and lead sustainability initiatives at scale.

Research Interests:


Zaid Thanawala’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable systems, renewable energy, and data-driven environmental solutions. He is particularly focused on the development of advanced life cycle assessment (LCA) tools and predictive models for decarbonization, with an emphasis on automating these processes to increase efficiency and reduce resource consumption. His research extends to the integration of artificial intelligence in sustainability, where he applies machine learning algorithms to enhance forecasting accuracy for energy needs and carbon emissions. Zaid is also interested in the application of circular economy principles in product life cycles, specifically the recycling and reuse of materials like lithium-ion batteries, which are key to reducing environmental impacts in electronics and energy storage systems.

Awards:


Zaid Thanawala’s work has been widely recognized for its innovation and impact on the sustainability field. While he has not received specific individual awards, his leadership in creating and implementing sustainability strategies has contributed to the recognition of the companies he works for, including Amazon and Salesforce. His work on AI-powered LCA tools and forecasting models for renewable energy procurement has been instrumental in achieving significant corporate sustainability milestones. Zaid’s ability to lead high-impact sustainability initiatives has positioned him as a thought leader and innovator in the field.

Publications:

  1. “A Thin-Film Silicon/Silicon Hetero-Junction Hybrid Solar Cell for Photoelectrochemical Water-Reduction Applications” ☀️ (2016) – Published in Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, cited by 24 articles.
  2. “Measure of Primary Data as a Quality Indicator in Life Cycle Assessments” 📊 (2025) – Published in International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research.
  3. “The Application of AI for Solving Critical Challenges within LCAs” 🤖 (2025) – Published in International Journal on Science and Technology.
  4. “Importance of Product Carbon Footprints in Sustainable Procurement” 🌍 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation.
  5. “Understanding the Potential for Renewable Energy in Supply Chain Decarbonization” 🔋 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Social Science Exceptional Research.
  6. “Enabling Sustainable Product Development through the Use of AI and Life Cycle Assessment” 🔄 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Innovative Research in Engineering.
  7. “The Importance of Including Water Footprints in Life Cycle Assessments” 💧 (2023) – Published in International Scientific Journal of Engineering and Management.

Conclusion:


Zaid Thanawala exemplifies the qualities of an innovative sustainability scientist, consistently driving technological advancements that contribute significantly to environmental sustainability. His expertise in life cycle assessments, renewable energy forecasting, and decarbonization strategies has had a measurable impact on major global companies, helping them meet their sustainability targets. Zaid’s ability to blend cutting-edge technology with real-world applications in sustainability makes him an outstanding candidate for the “Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award.” His research and contributions continue to inspire progress in the fields of sustainable systems and renewable energy, offering promising solutions to some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

 

Zahra Ghasemi | Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zahra Ghasemi | Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zahra Ghasemi | Pollution – Associate Professor at University of Hormozgan

Dr. Zahra Ghasemi Laleh Vajeh Sari is an esteemed Associate Professor in Environmental Science, specializing in environmental pollution. With extensive research contributions in nanomaterials, wastewater treatment, and sustainable environmental management, she has significantly advanced the field of environmental sustainability. Her dedication to research and innovation has earned her recognition as a leading scientist in her domain.

Professional Profile

ORCID | Scopus

Education

Dr. Ghasemi obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Engineering from the Industrial University of Isfahan, followed by a Master’s in Environmental Science from Tarbiat Modares University. She later pursued her PhD in Environmental Science with a specialization in Environmental Pollution, conducting a pioneering dissertation on the removal of organic pollutants from petroleum refinery wastewater using TiO2-Fe-ZSM-5 nanoporous photocatalyst. She further enriched her academic expertise through a research opportunity at the University of Western Ontario, Canada.

Experience

Throughout her career, Dr. Ghasemi has been actively involved in research projects addressing environmental challenges, particularly in pollution control and wastewater management. She has collaborated with national and international institutions, leading groundbreaking research on nanomaterials, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable resource utilization. Her contributions include working with the Persian Gulf Star Oil Company on environmental management projects and advancing the industrial production of microalgae for sustainable applications.

Research Interests

Dr. Ghasemi’s research primarily focuses on environmental pollution, nanomaterials, and wastewater treatment technologies. Her work delves into advanced photocatalytic and adsorption techniques for pollutant removal, environmental impact mitigation strategies, and sustainable water resource management. She has played a crucial role in the synthesis of innovative materials for environmental remediation, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and industrial applications.

Awards

Dr. Ghasemi has received multiple accolades for her contributions to environmental science and sustainability. Her innovative research on nanomaterials has been recognized by national scientific bodies, and she has been an active member of technical committees for developing environmental and nanotechnology standards. Her dedication to advancing environmental policies and sustainable solutions has earned her prestigious recognition in academic and industrial sectors.

Publications 📚

“Synthesis of Nanozeolite Sodalite from Rice Husk Ash Without Organic Additives” – Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, 2011. Cited by 120 articles.
“Preparation and Characterization of Nanozeolite NaA from Rice Husk Without Organic Additives” – Journal of Nanomaterials, 2011. Cited by 95 articles.
“Application of Zeolites in Aquaculture Industries: A Review” – Reviews in Aquaculture, 2016. Cited by 180 articles.
“Efficiency of Titanium Dioxide Photocatalyst Immobilized on Fe-ZSM-5 Zeolite in Removing Organic Pollutants from Petroleum Refinery Wastewater” – Scientific-Research Journal of Water and Wastewater, 2016. Cited by 75 articles.
“Application of Integrated Ozone and Granular Activated Carbon for Decolorization and COD Reduction of Vinasse from Alcohol Distilleries” – Journal of Environmental Management, 2016. Cited by 150 articles.
“Preparation, Characterization and Photocatalytic Application of TiO2/Fe-ZSM-5 Nanocomposite for the Treatment of Petroleum Refinery Wastewater” – Chemosphere, 2016. Cited by 200 articles.
“Synthesis of Nanosized ZSM-5 Zeolite Using Extracted Silica from Rice Husk Without Adding Any Alumina Source” – Applied Nanoscience, 2015. Cited by 130 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Zahra Ghasemi Laleh Vajeh Sari’s exceptional contributions to environmental science, particularly in nanotechnology applications for pollution control, make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her extensive research, academic leadership, and dedication to sustainability have positioned her as a key figure in the field. With a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, she continues to drive impactful advancements in environmental science, reinforcing her eligibility for this esteemed recognition.

Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr. Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research | South Africa

Dr. Basanda Xhantilomzi Nondlazi is a dedicated climate change researcher with over 18 years of experience in ecological research, remote sensing, and biodiversity conservation. He has specialized expertise in understanding the impacts of climate change on freshwater ecosystems and savanna environments, blending advanced technological approaches with traditional ecological methods. His work has contributed to policymaking, environmental management, and academic development, positioning him as a leader in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Dr. Nondlazi holds a Ph.D. in Ecological Remote Sensing from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2022), where his thesis focused on spatial relationships between plant functional types and hydrological gradients in freshwater ecosystems. He also earned an MSc in Ecology from the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in the effects of tree densification on grassland understory, and a BSc Honors in Botany with a focus on altitudinal gradients. His academic journey is complemented by a National Diploma in Animal Health and Production, which provided a strong foundation in veterinary sciences and pasture management.

Experience
Dr. Nondlazi has held various research and leadership roles, including his current position as a Climate Response Planning Specialist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). His career spans roles as a postdoctoral researcher in climate adaptation and precision agriculture and as a research associate in wetland ecological remote sensing. He has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of depressional wetlands and savanna ecosystems in response to climate variability, providing actionable insights for environmental legislation and sustainable management.

Research Interest
Dr. Nondlazi’s research interests center on ecological remote sensing, climate change adaptation, and sustainable environmental management. He is passionate about using cutting-edge tools like UAVs, machine learning, and geographic information systems to address pressing ecological challenges. His work on wetland conservation, bush encroachment mitigation, and biodiversity protection demonstrates his commitment to creating resilient ecosystems in the face of global climate change.

Awards
Dr. Nondlazi received the Golden Key Excellence Award during his MSc studies, recognizing his outstanding academic and research contributions. His innovative approaches to ecological challenges have garnered respect and recognition from peers and institutions, reflecting his dedication to excellence in climate change research.

Publications

  1. “Spatial Variability of Edaphic Factors in Depressional Wetlands: A Remote Sensing Approach” (2023, Journal of Wetland Ecology), cited by 15 articles.
  2. “Impacts of Tree Densification on Grassland Understory” (2021, African Journal of Ecology), cited by 23 articles.
  3. “Altitudinal Gradients and Grass-Specific Leaf Area” (2019, Plant Ecology and Diversity), cited by 12 articles.
  4. “Advances in Remote Sensing for Wetland Monitoring” (2022, Remote Sensing in Ecology), cited by 18 articles.
  5. “Bush Encroachment: Quantitative and Trait-Based Approaches” (2020, Ecological Applications), cited by 21 articles.
  6. “Wetland Buffer Zones and Climate Resilience” (2023, Journal of Environmental Management), cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion
Dr. Nondlazi exemplifies the integration of research, policy, and technology in addressing climate change challenges. His work not only advances academic understanding but also offers practical solutions for sustainable environmental management. As a leader in his field, he continues to inspire collaborations and innovations that support global climate resilience efforts.

Madhab Chandra Jena | Environmental impact assessment and control | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr . Madhab Chandra Jena | Environmental impact assessment and control | Best Researcher Award 

PhD scholar , BPUT , India

Madhab Chandra Jena is a highly accomplished professional pursuing a PhD in Sustainable Energy and Environment. He holds multiple degrees, including an M-Tech in Production Engineering, BEs in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, and an MBA in Production Management. With certifications as a Certified Energy Manager, Energy Auditor, and Machinery Safety Expert, Madhab has a strong foundation in engineering and environmental sustainability. His career is marked by significant contributions to the fields of energy management, production optimization, and environmental impact reduction.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse and Extensive Qualifications: Madhab Chandra Jena holds a wide array of academic qualifications, including a Ph.D. in progress, M.Tech in Production Engineering, two B.E. degrees in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, and an MBA in Production Management. His extensive certifications, including those in energy management, machinery safety, Six Sigma, and various ISO standards, highlight a strong foundation in both technical and management domains.
  2. Professional Expertise and Contributions: Jena’s expertise is further reinforced by his certification as an Energy Manager and Auditor by the Government of India, alongside his roles as a certified Lead Auditor and Internal Auditor for multiple ISO standards. His involvement as an editorial board member of recognized journals like Environmental Progress and Sustainable Energy and Journal of Chemical Engineering Research Updates underscores his influence and contribution to the academic community.
  3. Patents and Publications: With 10 patents and 6 research papers published in reputable journals such as Springer, Wiley, and Taylor & Francis, Jena demonstrates a significant contribution to innovation and research. His work covers a broad spectrum of topics, including sustainable engineering, environmental impact mitigation, and integration of Industry 4.0 with environmental management systems.
  4. Professional Recognition: Jena’s professional membership as a corporate member of the Institution of Engineers (India) and his editorial roles reflect his standing and recognition in the engineering community.

Areas for Improvement 

  1. Consolidation of Research Focus: While Jena has a diverse range of qualifications and research interests, a more concentrated focus on a specific area of research might strengthen his impact. Specializing further in one area, such as sustainable energy or environmental management, could lead to more significant contributions and recognition in that field.
  2. Publication Quantity and Impact: Although Jena has published in several reputed journals, increasing the volume of his publications and targeting higher-impact journals could enhance his academic profile. Additionally, expanding his research network and collaboration could lead to higher citation rates and more influential work.
  3. Engagement with Global Research Community: Jena could benefit from more active participation in international conferences and workshops, which would provide greater exposure to global research trends and opportunities for collaboration.

    Education 🎓

    Madhab’s educational journey is extensive, reflecting his commitment to academic and professional excellence. He earned his Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from Govt. Engg. School (O.S.M.E), Keonjhar, topping his class in 2001. He later completed his BE in Mechanical Engineering from the Institution of Engineers (India) Kolkata, followed by an MBA in Production Management from AIHE, Patna. Madhab’s academic credentials are further bolstered by an M-Tech in Mechanical (Production Engineering) from REC, Bhubaneswar, and coursework in PhD in Sustainable Energy and Environment from BPUT, Odisha.

    Experience 💼

    Madhab has extensive experience in engineering and management, with a focus on sustainable practices. His career includes roles in production engineering, energy management, and environmental sustainability. He has contributed significantly to optimizing solar power plants, enhancing sustainability in cement plants, and integrating Industry 4.0 with environmental management systems. Madhab’s expertise is recognized by his involvement on the editorial boards of prestigious journals and his professional membership with the Institution of Engineers (India).

    Research Interests 🔬

    Madhab’s research interests are centered around sustainable engineering, with a particular focus on integrating advanced technologies like Industry 4.0 with environmental management systems. His work explores the optimization of production processes, the sustainability of manufacturing practices, and the environmental impact of industrial activities. Madhab is passionate about developing innovative solutions to enhance environmental sustainability and mitigate the negative impacts of industrial processes.

    Awards & Recognitions 🏆

    Madhab has been recognized for his contributions to engineering and sustainability, receiving several awards and accolades throughout his career. His achievements include topping his class in Mechanical Engineering, qualifying the GATE exam twice, and earning certifications as a Certified Energy Manager, Energy Auditor, and Machinery Safety Expert. Madhab’s work has been acknowledged by leading academic and professional institutions, further establishing him as a leader in his field.

    Publications 📚

     

    Madhab Chandra Jena has published numerous research papers in prestigious journals, showcasing his expertise in sustainable engineering and environmental management. Here are some of his key publications:

    1. Integration of Industry 4.0 With Environment Management System (EMS) to Enhance Environmental Sustainability
    2. Integration of Industry 4.0 with Reliability Centered Maintenance to Enhance Sustainable Manufacturing
      • Published in Environmental Progress and Sustainable Energy, 2024. DOI: 10.1002/ep.14321
      • Cited by: Upcoming
    3. Introduction of RCA Pyramid Model: A Problem-Solving Tool to Achieve Business Excellence
    4. Introduction of ERAC (Environmental Risk Assessment and Control) Framework in Manufacturing to Enhance Sustainability
    5. Challenges and Way Forward in the Handling and Disposal of Battery Waste: Towards Sustainable Practices

 

 Conclusion

Madhab Chandra Jena is a highly qualified and multifaceted researcher with significant contributions to the fields of mechanical and production engineering, sustainability, and environmental management. His diverse academic background, professional certifications, and editorial roles demonstrate his capability and influence in his areas of expertise. However, to strengthen his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award, focusing on a specialized research area, increasing the quantity and impact of his publications, and engaging more actively with the global research community would be beneficial. Overall, Jena presents a strong case for the award, particularly in the context of his contributions to sustainable engineering and environmental management.