Emerging from a humble student initiative at the University of Hong Kong in 2020, Clearbot has evolved into a promising start-up poised to revolutionize marine industry research. Spearheaded by co-founders Utkarsh Goel and Sidhant Gupta, Clearbot’s mission is to alleviate ocean plastic pollution through the deployment of AI-powered autonomous marine robots.
These robots, operating as an all-electric fleet of 12 self-driving units, possess the capability to remove substantial quantities of ocean waste, ranging from 250 to 300 kilograms per operation. Their versatility extends beyond waste management, encompassing the transportation of goods on water and the execution of marine inspections, all while maintaining zero emissions due to their reliance on solar power.
Clearbot’s technological prowess extends to the development of specialized modules designed to tackle specific marine challenges. One such module is dedicated to clearing aquatic plants that impede waterways, while another is equipped to absorb and collect oil from the water’s surface.
The impetus for Clearbot’s growth can be attributed to the pivotal guidance and support received through the City I&T Grand Challenge, an initiative that provided funding and training to the start-up. This support enabled Clearbot to conduct thorough market research, refine its product design, and establish a solid foundation for prototyping and manufacturing.
Within a year of this transformative support, Clearbot’s team expanded from four to 20 members, and its fleet of automated bots surged from one to twelve. The start-up’s reputation and capabilities have garnered the attention of multinational tech giants such as Razer and Microsoft. Clearbot has also secured investments from the Alibaba Entrepreneur Fund and Gobi Partners Greater Bay Area, providing a financial springboard for its ambitious growth trajectory.
As Clearbot’s team continues to grow, the company remains committed to its mission of driving sustainability in the marine industry. The integration of AI into its robots empowers them to detect and analyze debris, extracting valuable information such as product brands and geolocation data. This data holds the potential to trace the origins of marine pollution, enabling Clearbot to collaborate with producers and implement sustainable practices at the source.
Clearbot’s success serves as an exemplar, demonstrating how innovative start-ups can simultaneously drive positive environmental impact and achieve commercial success. The company’s journey underscores the power of innovation and technology in addressing pressing environmental challenges and shaping a more sustainable future for the marine industry.
