During the recent Bhutan Innovation Forum, Nobel Laureate Physicist Konstantin Novoselov said graphene could be an alternative energy source for Bhutan, alongside hydropower. He said using graphene as a renewable energy will help the country meet the Sustainable Development Goals. Konstantin Novoselov said this during the panel on leveraging science and innovation to deliver prosperity.
Graphene is made from carbon and is found in the air. It is known for being incredibly strong and lightweight. It is often used in making electronics and batteries, in health care and has the potential to be used in energy storage and production.
At the Forum, Konstantin Novoselov suggested setting up a research centre in Bhutan to study advanced materials such as graphene.
He said this centre would help Bhutan discover new technologies that could improve the economy.
He also mentioned that the centre could work with international scientists and universities, making Bhutan a place for leading research.
“We actually discussed with the Royal Society for STEM here about how to start working and start developing research groups. And the proposal at the moment please send your best students to work with us and we will share everything as there is no secret in science, and really try to be as open as possible.”
He added that this idea would promote innovation, helping Bhutan to lead in clean energy and technology.
Namgay Wangchuk, Paro
Edited by Tshering Zam
