FOUNDERS: KUMAR LOGANATHAN & JYOTSNA RAVIKUMAR

THE COMPANY

The journey of Elbow Engineers began with a profound realization. In my homeland, India, I was deeply involved in water purification and air-to-water machines. My primary research focused on developing an atmospheric water generator, a device that produces drinking water from atmospheric water vapor. This innovation stemmed from the pressing issue of groundwater contamination in India. However, I soon recognized that air quality was equally affected, though less visibly. It became clear that both air and water pollution often originate from waste landfills.

Driven by a desire to comprehend this complex issue, I began analyzing various waste materials, seeking to understand their properties and interconnections. Fate brought us to the (DFID) team during a university demo day, where we showcased our air-to-water technology. Impressed by our work, they extended an invitation to bring our business to the UK. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our immediate plans.

Undeterred, I made the decision to pursue further education in the UK, allowing me to gain a global perspective on the problem at hand. It was during this time that I discovered the alarming fact that Scotland, my new home, exports a staggering 100 tons of plastic waste to other countries every month.

This realization underscored that the issue at hand was not confined to a specific region; it was a global crisis. With this newfound clarity, we embarked on the journey of Elbow Engineers in the UK. Our mission is to address the interlinked challenges of air and water pollution, originating from waste landfills, with innovative solutions that have far-reaching impacts.

THE PROBLEM

Elbow Engineers is addressing the pressing issue of waste and pollution in the UK, specifically in the construction industry. The construction sector generates a significant amount of waste, contributing to pollution and environmental degradation. In the UK, construction and demolition waste accounts for approximately 100 million tonnes annually. This waste often ends up in landfills or is incinerated, leading to adverse environmental impacts.

To put this issue in perspective, consider that construction is responsible for 40% of the world's total energy consumption and nearly 30% of raw material use. Moreover, the traditional brick industry is one of the leading contributors to pollution, ranking as the 3rd most polluting industry in the UK.

Elbow Engineers' innovative eco-brick solution offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative by utilizing recycled plastic waste and demolition waste. This significantly reduces waste going to landfills, minimizes pollution, and promotes a circular economy. By addressing these environmental challenges, Elbow Engineers aims to make a positive impact on the UK's construction industry and contribute to a more sustainable future.

THE SOLUTION

Elbow Engineers' groundbreaking solution addresses the UK's construction industry waste and pollution problems with eco-bricks. Crafted from recycled plastic and demolition waste, these bricks offer a sustainable alternative to traditional ones. In the UK, 5.1 million tonnes of plastic waste contribute to pollution annually. Our eco-bricks divert this waste, reducing landfill usage and cutting carbon emissions associated with brick production.

Valued at £100 billion, the UK construction industry demands sustainability and cost-efficiency. Elbow Engineers' eco-bricks deliver by conserving resources, promoting an environmentally responsible sector. Our innovation consumes 100 grams of CO2 per brick, a low-carbon option. With each brick produced, we save 2.5 kilograms of waste from landfills, equating to approximately half a pound per brick used in construction. Elbow Engineers' eco-conscious building materials offer an efficient solution for a greener, more sustainable future in the UK.

TOP TIPS

Be prepared to work hard. Starting a business is a lot of hard work. There will be long hours, setbacks, and challenges. But the rewards are highly gratifying and therefore worth the effort.

Be flexible. Things don't always go according to plan, so it's important to be flexible. Be prepared to adapt your plans as needed.

Don't be afraid to fail. Failure is a part of the entrepreneurial journey. Everyone fails at some point. The important thing is to learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.

Celebrate your successes. It's important to celebrate your successes along the way. This will help you to stay motivated and keep moving forward.