Chemistry Challenges for Climate Action: Cape Verde and the Sustainable Future
The "Elsevier Foundation Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge 2026" initiative represents a unique opportunity for Cape Verde to boost research and innovation in the field of chemistry, with a focus on mitigating climate change and promoting a more sustainable future. This international competition, funded by the Elsevier Foundation, aims to support projects that use chemistry to develop innovative solutions to global environmental challenges, with particular relevance to the realities and specific needs of Cape Verde.
The Republic of Cape Verde, an archipelago vulnerable to the effects of climate change, faces significant challenges such as rising sea levels, a shortage of drinking water and the degradation of marine ecosystems. Chemistry, with its ability to transform materials and processes, offers powerful tools to combat these challenges. The "Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge" opens the door to exploring concrete solutions adapted to the Cape Verdean context, promoting the development of:
- Renewable energy sources: The development of new energy storage technologies, such as high-performance batteries, and the optimisation of biofuel production from local resources, such as marine biomass, are promising areas.
- Sustainable water management: Research into more efficient and economical desalination technologies with less environmental impact and the development of innovative wastewater treatment methods are crucial to guaranteeing access to drinking water.
- Circular economy: The creation of biodegradable materials, the recycling of plastic and other waste, and the development of chemical processes that reduce waste production all contribute to a more resilient and sustainable economy.
- Pollution monitoring and mitigation: The development of chemical sensors to monitor air and water quality, as well as the implementation of technologies to remove pollutants, are essential to protect human health and the environment.
Cape Verde's participation in this challenge is crucial. The funding made available by the Elsevier Foundation can boost the development of projects led by Cape Verdean researchers, international collaborations and the strengthening of national capacities in research and development. The competition offers a platform for:
- Boosting research: The opportunity to obtain funding makes it possible to carry out cutting-edge research, acquire the necessary equipment and materials and attract talent.
- Promote collaboration: The challenge encourages collaboration between research institutions, universities and companies at both national and international level, facilitating the sharing of knowledge and resources.
- Empowering researchers: Participation in the competition requires the preparation of robust project proposals and the presentation of quality scientific results, contributing to the development of skills and the professional growth of researchers.
- Generate social and economic impact: The solutions developed can benefit Cape Verdean society, creating jobs and promoting sustainable economic development.
To ensure the success of Cape Verde's participation, a coordinated effort is needed involving the government, research institutions, universities and civil society. It is essential to identify promising projects and prepare high-quality proposals that demonstrate the project's relevance to Cape Verde's climate challenges and its potential positive impact. Support for training activities and the establishment of strategic partnerships with international organisations are equally important.
Participation in the Chemistry for Climate Action Challenge is an investment in Cape Verde's sustainable future, representing an opportunity to build a more resilient, prosperous and environmentally responsible future. It's time to mobilise our resources and talents to take advantage of this unique opportunity.
Application deadline: 1 October 2025.
Application link: https://elsevierfoundation.org/chemistry-for-climate-action-challenge/
