A fleet of self-driving electric boats from Hong Kong-based marine technology startup Clearbot will embark on a mission to clean India's water bodies with unprecedented efficiency starting in March this year
Hong Kong-based marine technology startup Clearbot unveils plans to launch a cutting-edge fleet of larger solar-powered autonomous boats to address escalating river and ocean pollution issues in India. Slated for deployment in March, these advanced vessels aim to boost Clearbot's ongoing efforts to cleanse polluted waters significantly.
Clearbot's new self-driving electric boats can collect around 500 kg of plastic waste and other debris from rivers and oceans. This represents a doubling of the capability compared to the company's existing robotic cleaners operating across Indian seas and lakes.
Clearbot, founded in 2019 by graduates from the University of Hong Kong, aims to revolutionise the marine services sector by automating and electrifying tasks traditionally performed by manned diesel boats. The co-founder and chief technology officer, Utkarsh Goel, highlights the vision of fostering sustainability within the industry.
Initially conceived as a student initiative to assist Indonesian surfers in efficiently cleansing waterways, Clearbot has since expanded into a global endeavour. Founders Goel and Sidhant Gupta broadened their focus due to the significant demand for sustainable marine infrastructure.
Over the past year, Clearbot has deployed 13 boats capable of collecting up to 250 kg of plastic waste daily, addressing projects in Hong Kong and India. These autonomous electric vessels navigate waters independently, retrieving surface debris and depositing it for subsequent recycling.
India, which contributes approximately 13 percent of global ocean plastic, remains a focal point for Clearbot's expansion. Recent pilot projects in cities like Shillong and Bengaluru have showcased the effectiveness of Clearbot's technology in significantly reducing waterborne waste.
Clearbot's latest endeavours come at a critical juncture as global awareness of the detrimental effects of ocean pollution continues to grow. With at least 11 million tonnes of plastic entering oceans annually, initiatives like Clearbot's represent vital steps towards mitigating environmental degradation.
Moreover, Clearbot's commitment to sustainability extends beyond waste collection. The company eliminates carbon emissions associated with conventional diesel-powered vessels by harnessing solar power for its fleet.
The innovative approach has garnered attention and investment, with a notable $4 million valuation secured during Clearbot's seed funding round. Backers include prominent entities like the Alibaba Entrepreneurship Fund and Gobi Partners GBA, underscoring confidence in Clearbot's potential to drive positive change in the marine services industry.
As Clearbot continues to forge partnerships and expand its reach, introducing its advanced autonomous boats signifies a significant stride towards cleaner, more sustainable oceans.