Meet the innovators under 35 shaping climate tech

Every year, MIT Technology Review publishes a list of 35 innovators under the age of 35 who are making significant contributions in fields like biotech, climate, computing, and AI. For 2026, the list includes nine individuals focused on climate and energy solutions. These innovators were selected after months of research by the editorial team. The list highlights young researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs whose work addresses urgent global challenges. By examining the climate and energy category as a whole, the article suggests that these innovators reflect the current state and future direction of climate technology. Their projects range from improving energy efficiency to developing new materials and technologies for a sustainable future.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a major theme among the innovators, both for its potential benefits and its environmental challenges. For example, Jae-Won Chung developed software to measure the energy demands of open-source AI models, helping the industry understand and reduce AI’s carbon footprint. AI is also being used to improve climate research: Jing Wei employs machine learning to track pollution by combining data from satellites and weather stations, while Zhonghua Zheng created AI climate models specifically designed for urban areas, which traditional models often overlook. These projects demonstrate how AI can enhance efficiency and accuracy in addressing climate issues, despite its own energy-intensive nature.

Lithium is a critical material for modern technologies, particularly lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage. Experts warn of potential lithium shortages as early as this decade, and similar supply risks apply to other essential minerals like copper. Currently, brine is the cheapest source of lithium, but extracting it can take months and harm local environments. Mohammad Alkhadra cofounded Lithios, a startup working on a faster and more efficient method to extract lithium from brine. Meanwhile, Benjamin Mowbray cofounded Rock Zero, which focuses on extracting lithium from hardrock ore, a more expensive but common source. These innovations aim to secure the supply of lithium and reduce environmental damage.

Heavy industry, including steel production, accounts for about 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Laureen Meroueh is addressing this issue by developing a new type of furnace that simplifies the chemical process for making steel, resulting in cleaner and cheaper production. This innovation could significantly reduce emissions from one of the most polluting industries. By improving efficiency and lowering costs, Meroueh’s work supports the transition to a low-carbon economy while maintaining industrial productivity.

Plastics are traditionally made from fossil fuels, contributing to climate change. Joseph Nguthiru is tackling this problem by creating a bioplastic from an invasive weed, offering a renewable alternative to fossil-derived packaging. This approach reduces reliance on non-renewable resources and helps manage invasive plant species. Additionally, Diana Orembe is repurposing food waste to produce fish food for aquaculture, demonstrating how waste materials can be transformed into valuable resources. These projects highlight creative solutions to reduce the environmental impact of plastic production and waste.

Refrigerants used in cooling systems are often potent greenhouse gases that can leak and contribute to climate change. Jinyoung Seo is developing solid refrigerants as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional gas-based refrigerants. Devices using these new materials could reduce energy consumption by 20% compared to conventional technology. This innovation addresses both the environmental risks of refrigerant leakage and the energy inefficiency of current cooling systems, offering a dual benefit for climate mitigation.