Just like plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, a team of Bhutanese students has built a robot to turn carbon emissions from transportation into breathable gas. Transport accounts for about one-fifth of global carbon dioxide emissions, one of the main causes of global warming. The students from Thimphu represented Bhutan at the first Global Challenge held in Geneva, Switzerland recently.
Themed “Carbon Capture”, Team Bhutan competed with 180 countries and was ranked in the top 60. The challenge was held from October 13-17.
“We build small bots that would be driven by Artificial Intelligence, and with the process of the direct air filter and cryogenic chemical processes, it would convert the emitted carbon from the vehicles to oxygen,” said Roshan Dahal, a science student of Motithang HSS.
“Our analytical and critical thinking aptitude has been intensified. Our social aptitude such as networking, communicating and interacting with people has been amplified,” added Yangchub Dolma Thinley, also a science student from Yangchenphu HSS.
The team overcame a complete robot dis-functionality in one day. Their mentor said the team showcased resilience and team spirit in reconstructing the robot.
“While travelling, the robot underwent damage. But once we reached there, the team started fixing the robot right away with so much enthusiasm and dedication. After the competition, their effort was well received and applauded by the international spectators,” said Pema Yangzom, a teacher at Babesa Primary School.
According to her, a bright future awaits the youth in science and technology innovation with proper guidance. The students also received scholarships from renowned universities such as Yale and Massachusetts University of Technology. The team aspires to ignite a passion for the country’s youth to delve into the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math or STEM field.
Tashi Yangden
Edited by Sonam
