Sri Lankan scientist and innovator Dr. Nadeesha Chandrasena has been crowned the 2026 Australian National Winner of ClimateLaunchpad, one of the world’s leading international competitions for green business ideas and climate-focused innovation.
ClimateLaunchpad supports innovative business concepts addressing climate change, clean energy, environmental protection and sustainable development, helping promising ideas move towards international markets.
As part of the competition, participants present their business concepts, practical value, environmental benefits, market potential and future growth plans before an international judging panel.
Dr. Nadeesha Chandrasena was recognised as the 2026 Australia National Winner for an innovative smart drain technology developed by her and her team.
To further develop the technology, the team has established an innovation company called URBAN INVENTORS, operating in both Australia and Sri Lanka.
The ClimateLaunchpad title marks the second major international achievement for the URBAN INVENTORS team. The group previously won a 2025 World Intellectual Property Global Award, further highlighting its commitment to innovation and intellectual property.
The latest victory is being seen as significant international recognition of Dr. Chandrasena and her team’s scientific knowledge, innovative capabilities and commitment to developing sustainable solutions to global climate challenges.
With this achievement, Dr. Chandrasena has also earned the opportunity to advance to the international stage of the ClimateLaunchpad competition.
She and her team will now have the chance to represent Australia and compete alongside leading green business innovators from around the world.
The achievement is a proud moment for both Australia and Sri Lanka, highlighting the ability of Sri Lankan innovators to develop groundbreaking solutions with the potential to create a positive impact on the world.
AUSTV extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Nadeesha Chandrasena and the URBAN INVENTORS team, and wishes them continued success as they take their innovative idea to the international stage.
