NEIOX ECO CYCLE: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Neiox Eco Cycle is a pioneering climate technology startup based in Kozhikode, Kerala, dedicated to transforming industrial waste into valuable, environmentally sustainable products. Founded in 2023, this innovative company confronts one of the most pressing global challenges—industrial pollution—by upcycling harmful chemical waste. Their breakthrough approaches not only reduce harmful emissions but also create economic value from environmental liabilities. With roots in cutting-edge research and strong institutional support, Neiox Eco Cycle is rapidly gaining attention for its promising solutions such as sustainable marine coatings. This article explores 10 key facts about Neiox Eco Cycle, revealing how it blends innovation with climate action to forge a greener future.

1. Origin and Founding Background

Neiox Eco Cycle was established in 2023 by Akhil Raj Pottekkat, an environmental sustainability entrepreneur with over a decade of industry experience. Motivated by the environmental damage he witnessed during his tenure in pigment manufacturing, Pottekkat embarked on a four-year journey to develop technologies that convert industrial waste into valuable products. The company is incubated at the Technology Business Incubator of the National Institute of Technology Calicut, providing a research-driven foundation that bolsters its innovative projects in climate technology.

2. Core Technology and Upcycling Innovation

At the heart of Neiox Eco Cycle’s mission is upcycling industrial chemical waste, including pollutants that would otherwise harm the environment. Their technology transforms these harmful substances into sustainable products, effectively reducing the release of pollutants. This upcycling process not only mitigates industrial waste but also aligns with circular economy principles by converting liabilities into assets, supporting both ecological and economic sustainability.

3. Climate Action Focus and Sustainable Development Goals

Neiox Eco Cycle's efforts directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those linked to climate action, good health and well-being, and responsible consumption and production. Their innovations target reducing industrial pollution, mitigating climate change impacts, and promoting sustainable industrial transformation, positioning the company as an important player in India’s and the global green technology landscape.

4. Breakthrough Marine Hull Coating Innovation

One of Neiox Eco Cycle’s most recognized innovations is the development of the world’s first sustainable, non-toxic, carbon-negative marine hull coating. This groundbreaking product, derived from captured air pollutants, offers strong anti-corrosive and anti-biofouling properties, which enhances ship fuel efficiency while lowering CO₂ emissions. By protecting marine ecosystems, this coating exemplifies the company’s vision to create climate-positive industrial solutions with global marine relevance.

5. Recognition and Funding Achievements

Since its inception, Neiox Eco Cycle has attracted significant recognition and financial support. In 2024, the startup secured a ₹30 lakh grant from Cochin Shipyard Limited to accelerate its climate tech innovations. In 2025, it further won a ₹75 lakh prototyping grant under Cochin Shipyard’s USHUS Maritime Innovation Scheme, demonstrating confidence in its marine coating technology and sustainable solutions. These grants are pivotal for advancing their prototypes and scaling impact.

6. Institutional Support and Collaborations

Neiox Eco Cycle benefits from strong collaborative support through incubation at the National Institute of Technology Calicut’s Technology Business Incubator, and associate partnerships with Kerala Startup Mission and LIVE at Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode. These collaborations contribute expertise, mentorship, and access to vital resources, positioning the company for rapid growth and impact in the climate tech sector.

7. Environmental and Societal Impact

Beyond technological innovation, Neiox Eco Cycle aims to address public health concerns by reducing pollutants that are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Their solutions reduce carbon footprints, improve industrial waste management, and promote cleaner manufacturing processes. This focus aligns environmental benefits with improved community health outcomes, enhancing their role as a sustainability-driven company.

8. Company Structure and Leadership

Operating as a private company incorporated in August 2024, Neiox Eco Cycle is headquartered in Kozhikode, Kerala, with a modest but focused team of fewer than 10 employees. Founder and CEO Akhil Raj Pottekkat leads the company with co-founders and researchers supporting its R&D and operational goals. Their leadership combines entrepreneurial vigor with scientific rigor, driving the company’s mission to fend off industrial pollution through innovation.

9. The Kerala Model for Sustainable Industrial Transformation

Neiox Eco Cycle exemplifies a growing trend within Kerala of climate-conscious innovation, often referred to as the “Kerala model.” By integrating cutting-edge climate action with traditional knowledge and regional resources, Neiox acts as a beacon demonstrating how local initiatives can achieve global environmental impacts. Its marine coating project and industrial upcycling technologies highlight this region’s leadership in sustainable industrial solutions.

10. Future Prospects and Global Potential

Looking ahead, Neiox Eco Cycle is poised to expand its technological offerings and market reach. With ongoing prototyping funded by significant grants and collaborative ecosystem support, the startup aims to commercialize its marine coatings and upcycling technologies at scale. Their solutions offer a replicable blueprint for other industries seeking to reduce pollution and enhance sustainability, positioning Neiox as a potentially influential global player in climate technology innovation.

Conclusion

Neiox Eco Cycle embodies the transformative power of innovation in the fight against environmental degradation caused by industrial pollution. Founded on a vision of upcycling waste into wealth, the company is quickly gaining stature through its advanced climate technologies like the carbon-negative marine hull coating. Its efforts exemplify the fusion of entrepreneurship, science, and social good, providing hopeful pathways toward a circular economy and healthier planet. As climate challenges become more urgent, initiatives like Neiox Eco Cycle’s offer tangible solutions with broad implications—will this model inspire wider adoption and create lasting global impact?