Colombian Innovator Mariana Pérez Named Among Top 10 in 2025 Young Inventors Prize

According to the Air Quality Life Index, 99.3% of Colombia’s population is exposed to air pollution exceeding WHO safety limits, with average particulate pollution increasing by 52.8% over the past two decades. Colombian entrepreneur Mariana Pérez (27) has developed a system that not only removes CO₂ from the air but also captures nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which are pollutants linked to respiratory diseases. Her innovative solution has secured her a place among the ten global innovators of the Young Inventors Prize 2025, known as Tomorrow Shapers, selected from 450 candidates by an independent jury.

Mimicking the human respiratory system

Fine particulate matter and harmful gases pose serious health risks, contributing to respiratory diseases and premature deaths. While existing carbon capture technologies primarily target CO₂, Pérez’s invention goes further, capturing additional pollutants. Ecol-Air‘s technology is designed to mimic the human respiratory system, using mechanical bronchioles and alveoli to optimize pollutant absorption. It can be installed on chimneys to draw in and process polluted air or used as a freestanding unit to purify ambient air. The captured pollutants are neutralized and processed into biodegradable polymers, which can be used in eco-friendly packaging and industrial materials, like biodegradable bags or tiles.

From childhood curiosity to real-world impact

Pérez’s scientific interest began at the age of eight, when she noticed how rain washed away the residue of vehicle emissions from her father’s car. This curiosity later led her to develop early prototypes, refining them through science fairs and eventually securing investor support. Despite initial skepticism from industries, she installed her devices for free at large factories to prove their efficiency.

“There were moments in my journey when I doubted myself. But I believe all scientists need to realize that, while we can create incredible solutions for the planet, health, and people, scaling our projects and turning them into businesses is what gives our inventions a real future. We can’t stop at just having an idea; we need to develop it further,” Pérez explained.

Ecol-Air now collaborates with industrial and academic partners. Yamaha Colombia was the first to adopt the system commercially, followed by Sumicol-Corona. In 2023, the first air treatment plant using Ecol-Air technology opened in Girardota (Colombia), processing 70 tonnes of air daily with an 82% efficiency rate, according to the company’s estimations. The Air Innovation Center, set to open in Barbosa in 2025, is expected to process 497 tonnes of air per day and incorporate public awareness initiatives. To support the international expansion of her company, Pérez recently relocated to the United States.

The Young Inventors Prize celebrates worldwide innovators aged 30 and under who use technology to address the global challenges posed by the United Nations‘ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Pérez’s invention supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by reducing harmful air pollutants and creating sustainable by-products.

The prizes for the 2025 edition will be announced during a ceremony livestreamed from Iceland on June 18, 2025.

Find more information about the invention’s impact, the technology, and the inventor’s story.

Mariana Pérez. Video and photo credit: European Patent Office.