12/11/2025
I was browsing for news when I saw this post. Immediately, I searched about AuREUS and found that this invention is indeed real and recognized. I first looked into the creator before reading the whole blog, because the student’s name was not initially mentioned. And to give credit where it is due, the creator is Carvey Ehren Maigue, a student of Mapúa University, from the Philippines.
The award he received was The Sustainability Award under The James Dyson Award.
A proud moment for Filipino ingenuity and innovation.
Being a climate warrior in the NATCCO Network, this invention is truly something to look forward to. I hope that its development and public accessibility will progress quickly — because our Mother Earth is not well, and she needs every effort, invention, and act of stewardship to recover for the next generations.
Maraming salamat, Carvey, for using your talent and creativity for the good of our planet. Your work brings inspiration and hope.
As someone who has walked alongside communities and cooperatives advocating for climate resilience, this stirred something in me.
Because we know this truth deeply:
Mother Earth is tired.
And the next generation is counting on us.
So, to all cooperatives, social enterprises, youth organizations, and local change-makers:
May we continue to support Filipino innovations.
May we invest in renewable solutions.
May we create ecosystems that nurture climate warriors — not just admire them after awards are given.
Carvey, maraming salamat.
Thank you for your vision, courage, and love for this world. You remind us that hope is not abstract — it is invented, built, tested, and shared.
The future we’re fighting for is not lost.
It is on the workbench. In classrooms. In communities. In us.
Let’s keep pushing.
Let’s keep educating.
Let’s keep acting.
For the Earth. For our children. For each other. 💚🌍✨
(Here's the link to the blog https://www.jamesdysonaward.org/en-US/2020/project/aureus-aurora-renewable-energy-uv-sequestration)
A Filipino scientist has created a groundbreaking solar panel called "Aureus," made entirely from recycled food waste. What makes this innovation extraordinary is its ability to generate electricity using UV light, even when there is no direct sunlight. This development represents a significant step forward in sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.
By repurposing food waste into functional solar technology, Aureus not only reduces environmental pollution but also contributes to renewable energy production. The panel’s unique design allows it to harness ultraviolet light efficiently, making it suitable for regions with limited sunlight or during cloudy days. This versatility enhances its potential applications in homes, schools, and remote areas where traditional solar panels may be less effective.
The invention reflects the power of combining scientific innovation with environmental consciousness. It demonstrates that solutions to global energy challenges can emerge from creative thinking and resourceful use of waste materials. Aureus could inspire further research into sustainable energy technologies that minimize ecological impact while providing practical benefits to society.
This achievement highlights the growing contributions of scientists from diverse backgrounds in addressing critical issues like climate change and energy scarcity. By turning food waste into clean energy, Aureus offers a promising path toward a greener and more sustainable future.