Dr. Legena Henry, a Trinidadian scientist, has pioneered the world’s first vehicle powered by renewable natural gas (RNG), which is created from a unique blend of sargassum seaweed, rum distillery wastewater, and Blackbelly sheep manure. This innovative approach not only provides renewable energy but also addresses beach pollution and waste management challenges.
Educated at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Dr. Henry embodies the school’s motto, “Mens et Manus”—“Mind and Hand”—by applying scientific knowledge to real-world issues. In an interview with Trinidad Express Business, she emphasized her dedication to using science for the betterment of humanity.
The vehicle was unveiled on September 17 at the Guinea Plantation in St. John, Barbados, and now serves as the flagship project of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREE). Its branding, “Runs on sargassum,” highlights the potential to transform transportation in the Caribbean.
Barbados Energy Minister Lisa Cummins commended this advancement, noting its ability to reshape the region’s transportation landscape. Dr. Henry explained that the technology for dispensing this renewable fuel will be similar to that of compressed natural gas (CNG), ensuring it is accessible and user-friendly. This innovation marks a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions in the Caribbean.
Dr. Legena Henry emphasized that the team has been collaborating with Trinidadians to install compressed natural gas (CNG) kits in vehicles, leveraging their extensive technical expertise. The initiative began with the Sargassum Biofuel Research Team in the summer of 2019 at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, which included members McKenzie, Karyl Pivott, Kristen Lynch, Aria Goodridge, and Joshua Austin.
While the project originated in Barbados, Dr. Henry stressed its broader significance, as sargassum is a global challenge affecting regions such as West Africa, Mexico, South America, and Florida. She noted that this initiative will support Barbados in its ambitious goal of becoming fossil-fuel-free by 2030.
Spearheaded by Rum and Sargassum Incorporated and Supernova Lab of Future Barbados, the project has already attracted over $1 million in investments. Dr. Henry described it as a significant opportunity for the transport sector, given that Barbados has around 150,000 registered gas vehicles that will need alternative fuel sources by 2030. While some owners may opt for electric cars, many will likely require a more accessible solution. Retrofitting existing vehicles to run on renewable gas offers a practical and promising business model.
She estimated that the project could help eliminate approximately 103,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually in Barbados. “I believe in UWI for solving questions and making the region a better place,” Dr. Henry stated, underscoring her commitment to leveraging education for regional improvement.
