VivaTech and Pollutec Paris have teamed up to drive tech-powered sustainability with the VivaTech x Pollutec Paris Startup Challenge. This partnership highlights European startups using digital innovation to tackle environmental challenges. Meet the six finalists heading to Pollutec Paris on November 26th and 27th, each bringing groundbreaking solutions for a greener future.
Sailboat with a Solar Cloth. Photo credit: Solar Cloth
Solar Cloth
Solar Cloth is a French startup pioneering ultra-light, flexible solar panels crafted with advanced CIGS technology, providing a sustainable alternative where traditional solar solutions fall short. Founded in 2014 by Alain Janet, the company offers a unique, foldable photovoltaic textile that can be deployed on complex surfaces and in dynamic environments—from field hospitals to mobile installations. By making renewable energy accessible in challenging contexts, Solar Cloth addresses the need for adaptable solar power while minimizing environmental impact.
Drone airship HyLighter flying over a field. Photo credit: HyLight
HyLight
HyLight is revolutionizing infrastructure management with its innovative drone airships, the HyLighters, designed for precise, carbon-free inspections of critical energy infrastructures. With 80 million kilometers of power lines and pipelines requiring regular monitoring to prevent failures, traditional inspection methods using helicopters and planes emit high levels of greenhouse gases. The HyLighters not only eliminate emissions in flight but also enable large-scale methane leak detection—addressing leaks that account for 4% of global emissions. Founded in 2022, HyLight’s mission extends beyond energy, with future applications in forestry, coastal observation, and agriculture.
Carbon capture technology from Revcoo on a work site. Photo credit: Revcoo
Revcoo
Revcoo, founded in 2019, is on a mission to reverse climate change by reducing industrial CO₂ emissions through its groundbreaking CarbonCloud® technology. Designed for flexible deployment across various industries—from cement and glass production to waste incineration—CarbonCloud® offers an innovative Point Source Carbon Capture solution with a minimal environmental footprint. The technology captures CO₂ even at low concentrations without consuming water or producing waste. The produced CO₂ is transported to logistical devices for storage and utilization and can be used as a substitute for fossil raw materials.
Woodflow material examplem from Strong by Form. Photo credit: Strong by Form
Strong by Form
Strong by Form is transforming construction and mobility with its Woodflow technology, which uses advanced wood composites as sustainable alternatives to concrete and steel. Founded in 2018 in Spain, the startup addresses the environmental impact of traditional materials by creating lightweight, high-performance composites that leverage the natural intelligence of trees. With a B2B model and partnerships with industry leaders like VINCI and Deutsche Bahn, Strong by Form aims to disrupt lightweight construction and promote sustainability.
Team photo of the 8 Impact. Photo credit: The 8 Impact
The 8 Impact
The 8 Impact is pioneering the circular economy by transforming used sneakers and sports equipment into high-performance recycled elastomers. Founded in 2021 in France, this deeptech startup addresses the significant issue of 750,000 tons of wasted sneakers annually, diverting them from incineration and reducing CO₂ emissions by 120,000 tons. With patented separation techniques that ensure a 98% purity rate, The 8 Impact produces elastomers that meet the growing demand for sustainable materials in industries like footwear and plastics.
Microscope on Algreen’s technology. Photo credit: Algreen
Algreen
Algreen is on a mission to revolutionize the plastic industry by providing sustainable alternatives to polyurethane, which accounts for 8% of global plastics. Based in the United Kingdom, this innovative startup leverages biotechnology, chemistry, and material science to create 100% natural biobased polyurethane products across various sectors, including fashion, automotive, cosmetics, and packaging. With a commitment to a plastic-free world, Algreen's biodegradable solutions, such as fabric glues and vegan leather made from sustainable algae, address pressing environmental issues while ensuring a net-zero impact.
Meet the Startups
From flexible solar textiles to recycled shoes, these startups are paving the way for a more sustainable future. Meet us at Pollutec Paris this 26-27 November in Paris to explore these groundbreaking sustainable innovations and more.