American Sisters Transform CO₂ into Sustainable Materials and Win Big

American Sisters Transform CO₂ into Sustainable Textiles

In a remarkable achievement geared towards sustainability, twin sisters Neeka and Leila Mashouf have been celebrated as the winners of the Nature Guardians prize at the Young Inventors Prize 2025. The award ceremony took place in Iceland, where their groundbreaking innovation was acknowledged for its potential to reshape the fabric of the textile industry.

At the age of 28, these American inventors have made a substantial breakthrough: instead of allowing industrial CO₂ emissions to contribute to climate change, they have developed a process that converts this harmful gas into biodegradable cellulose. This cellulose can be transformed into sustainable textiles and other essential materials, offering a promising alternative to the traditional, carbon-intensive methods of production.

A Revolutionary Approach

Their company, Rubi Laboratories, employs an innovative process inspired by nature. Just as trees absorb carbon dioxide, the Mashouf sisters utilize special enzymes to mimic that function. By functioning outside living cells within a controlled environment, their system captures CO₂ emissions and transforms it into usable cellulose pulp.

“By focusing on energy efficiency, our method requires ten times less energy compared to conventional thermochemical techniques, making it a more sustainable option,” Neeka explained. The process not only minimizes energy usage but also reintegrates carbon into the natural cycle, making it a dual-benefit solution: reducing harmful emissions while creating valuable resources.

Recognition and Impact

The Nature Guardians prize, administered by the European Patent Office (EPO), is awarded to initiatives that advance ecosystem protection and address critical environmental issues. The Mashouf sisters received a total of EUR 20,000 for their exceptional contribution to sustainable material manufacturing. Their work stands as a testament to how innovation can strike a balance between economic gains and ecological responsibility.

“As we move forward with Rubi, this recognition motivates us to further our mission of creating a manufacturing process in harmony with the planet,” added Leila.

The sisters were chosen among ten outstanding innovators recognized at the Young Inventors Prize 2025, which received over 450 applications globally. Their project not only contributes significantly to the fight against climate change but also aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to industry, innovation, and climate action.

Driving Change in the Textile Industry

The global textile industry is notorious for being an ecological adversary, responsible for approximately 8% of total global CO₂ emissions according to the United Nations Environment Programme. Recognizing this alarming statistic, the Mashouf sisters are dedicated to finding sustainable alternatives. Their technology has already gained traction, with major companies like Walmart, Patagonia, and H&M showing interest in their cellulose derived from CO₂.

Both Neeka and Leila are aware of the challenges ahead but remain dedicated to refining their process and scaling their innovation. Their team, which includes 17 experts in enzymology and carbon capture, is continuously working on integrating diverse talents essential for this niche field.

The Future of Rubi Laboratories

Now that they are at a crucial point in their journey, Neeka emphasized their commitment to engineering and execution: “Our future focus is on scaling the technology and broadening its applications. We envision a day when our innovation can make a significant dent in the textile industry's carbon footprint.”

With their aspirations firmly rooted in scientific exploration and environmental conservation, the Mashouf sisters not only illustrate the potential of youth-driven innovation but also pave the way for future advancements in sustainable practices. Their story serves as an inspiring reminder of the role that passion and creativity can play in shaping a healthier planet.

For more insights on the impact of their work and Rubi Laboratories, please visit their official website.