ORSL and IIT Roorkee Join Hands for Biomass and Biochar Research
On October 31, 2025, Organic Recycling Systems Limited (ORSL), a prominent Indian clean-tech company, announced a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee). This collaboration aims to advance research in biomass valorisation, biochar development, and innovative environmental technologies.
Collaboration Overview
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ORSL and IIT Roorkee combines the industrial expertise of ORSL with the academic prowess of IIT Roorkee’s Department of Hydro and Renewable Energy (HRED). This partnership is expected to accelerate innovation in renewable energy, circular economy models, and carbon-neutral technologies.
Key Focus Areas
Under the MoU, both organizations will concentrate on several critical areas:
- Biomass Research Applications: This includes the characterisation and pretreatment of biomass, development of biofuels, biochemical conversion processes, and evaluation of agricultural residues for industrial applications.
- Biochar and Activated Carbon Development: The production, characterisation, and application of biochar will be explored for soil enhancement, carbon sequestration, water purification, and heavy metal adsorption.
- Torrefaction of Biomass and Municipal Solid Waste (MSW): The project will focus on optimising torrefaction processes and integrating them with pyrolysis and gasification technologies to improve energy recovery.
- Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building: The collaboration will include joint training programmes, internships, research projects, and the establishment of an academia–industry ecosystem to foster innovation and skill development in renewable energy and environmental technologies.
Statements from Leadership
Sarang Bhand, Managing Director of Organic Recycling Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This partnership with IIT Roorkee marks a significant milestone in ORSL’s R&D journey. Together, we aim to accelerate technology development in biomass and MSW valorisation with a strong focus on biochar and torrefaction. This collaboration will play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s pathway toward clean energy and carbon neutrality.”
Prof. Vivek Kumar Malik, Dean of Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy at IIT Roorkee, noted, “Our partnership with ORSL reflects IIT Roorkee’s commitment to translating advanced research into impactful industrial applications. This collaboration will pave the way for innovative, scalable solutions in biomass processing and environmental management.”
Additionally, Prof. (Dr) Sonal K. Thengane, an Associate Professor in the Department of Hydro and Renewable Energy at IIT Roorkee, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with ORSL on the torrefaction of MSW and biomass. Together, we hope to develop a replicable model that can be implemented nationally to drive sustainable waste-to-energy practices.”
Importance of the Collaboration
The partnership between ORSL and IIT Roorkee is significant for several reasons:
- Advancement of Clean Technologies: The collaboration aims to enhance the development of clean technologies that can contribute to India’s energy needs while reducing environmental impact.
- Promotion of Circular Economy: By focusing on waste valorisation and biochar production, the partnership supports the principles of a circular economy, where waste is transformed into valuable resources.
- Research and Development: The joint efforts in R&D will lead to innovative solutions that can be scaled and implemented across various sectors, including agriculture and waste management.
- Educational Opportunities: The collaboration will provide students and researchers with opportunities for hands-on experience and training in cutting-edge technologies.
Conclusion
The partnership between ORSL and IIT Roorkee represents a significant step forward in the field of renewable energy and environmental technologies. By combining their strengths, both organizations aim to foster innovation, enhance sustainability, and contribute to India’s goals of clean energy and carbon neutrality.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates as of October 2023.
