In a major breakthrough for sustainable bioenergy and carbon neutrality, Organic Recycling Systems Limited (ORSL) has launched an innovative BioCCUS (Biological Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration) research platform in collaboration with IIT Bombay and IIT Kharagpur. This cutting-edge initiative aims to revolutionize how carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from biogas plants are managed—by capturing and transforming them into valuable biofuels and biochemicals.

The collaboration was formalized through the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between ORSL and the two premier academic institutions. The project brings together biological and catalytic CO2 conversion technologies within a unified and scalable biorefinery model.

“This collaboration with ORSL gives us a real-world testing ground to scale up our work on algal photobioreactors,” said Prof. Indrajit of IIT Bombay. “With high oil yields and phytochemical recovery, we’re not just sequestering carbon—we’re converting it into useful resources.”

At the core of this breakthrough is an anaerobic digester using Napier grass to produce biogas. Instead of venting the CO2-rich fraction, the gas is purified and directed into two parallel processes:

Algal cultivation at IIT Bombay, which generates bio-oils and nutraceutical compounds

Photocatalytic conversion at IIT Kharagpur, which produces C2–C5 mixed alcohols, precursors for jet fuel

“Our photocatalytic systems utilize ambient light and mild conditions to convert waste CO2 into green alcohols,” explained Prof. Koustuv Ray from IIT Kharagpur. “This partnership enables us to move from lab research to real-world impact.”

The BioCCUS platform exemplifies a zero-waste, circular bioeconomy by integrating CO2 capture, bio-CNG generation, value-added chemical production, and digestate utilization as biofertilizer—making it suitable for both rural and urban deployment.

“We’re proud to spearhead this next-generation carbon circularity project,” said Dr. Manju D. Tanwar, Chief Scientist and Head of R&D at ORSL. “Together with IIT Bombay and IIT Kharagpur, we’re showcasing how India can transform biogenic CO2 into clean fuels, chemicals, and tangible climate solutions.”

This trailblazing initiative is poised to set new standards in bioenergy innovation, supporting India’s goals under the Net Zero 2070 and Atmanirbhar Bharat missions in green chemicals and energy security.