Sustainable Future Awards 2026 shortlist announced
Congratulations to all the finalists shortlisted for the IOM3 Sustainable Future Awards 2026.
The IOM3 Sustainable Future Awards celebrate the individuals, research teams, organisations and businesses that are helping to build a more sustainable future through innovation, circularity, responsible resource management and inclusive practices.
This year's awards have attracted an impressive range of entries from across academia, industry and the wider professional community, showcasing the vital role that materials, minerals, mining, packaging and engineering play in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Reflecting the growing breadth of innovation across the sector, the 2026 awards feature an expanded category structure, recognising excellence in both academic research and industry implementation.
The categories for the 2026 IOM3 Sustainable Future Awards are:
Circular Economy (Academic)
The shortlisted finalists are:
- The CAPPUCCINO Lab, University of Birmingham
- Jönköping University / Husqvarna Group
- Mintek Physical Separation Group
Circular Economy (Industry)
The shortlisted finalists are:
- Ecobelt
- Ever Resource
- Kinergica
- Packniche
Sustainable Materials Innovation for Net-Zero (Academic)
The shortlisted finalists are:
- Dr Ahmed I. Osman, Canterbury Christ Church University
- Dr Emiliano Bilotti, Imperial College London
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia
- Keio University, CHROMA LIFE PROJECT
- NTU Ultra-Thin Perovskite Photovoltaics Team
Sustainable Materials Innovation for Net-Zero (Industry)
The shortlisted finalists are:
- Calix - Zesty Green Iron Technology
- Composite Braiding Ltd
- Puraffinity
- Una Developments (Real Green Concrete)
- Woven Bio
Inclusive Practices & Social Responsibility
The shortlisted finalists are:
- ABMEC Future Talent Initiative
- Kineer Garima Foundation
- Rotaract Club of Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
Sustainable Resource & Environmental Management
The shortlisted finalist is:
- Karetic Energy, IIT Delhi
The 2026 shortlist reflects the diversity of innovation taking place across academia, industry and the wider professional community. From circular economy solutions and net-zero materials technologies to inclusive practices and sustainable resource management, this year's finalists demonstrate the critical role of materials, minerals, mining and engineering in building a more sustainable future.
Congratulations to all of our finalists, and thank you to everyone who submitted an entry. We look forward to celebrating your achievements.
