Newton A. Ihoeghian (Ph.D.) has built a career in sustainable energy systems. His work focused on turning waste into renewable energy, offering environmentally friendly solutions for power generation. As William James aptly stated, "The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it" - a philosophy that perfectly embodies Dr. Ihoeghian's commitment to sustainable development.
While pursuing his master's degree at the University of Lagos from 2013-2014, Ihoeghian began his environmental journey as an Environmental Scientist with Environmental Accord, Lagos State. There, he conducted environmental audits and impact assessments of base transmission stations across southeastern Nigeria. Developed and presented comprehensive assessment reports. This early experience laid the groundwork for his flourishing career in environmental sustainability.
Dr. Ihoeghian gained hands-on experience in energy metering at the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), where he earned the title of "Most Outstanding Trainee." His role included a range of tasks, such as reporting data, analyzing customer consumption, training new engineers, leading teams for residential and commercial meter inspections, and managing metering for high-demand customers. He soon assumed the role of a Meter Engineer, where he played a key role in regional energy audits, helping his team in recovering an estimate $98,000 in revenue in 2015. This experience strengthened his analytical and problem-solving skills, preparing him to take on larger challenges in energy and environmental fields.
At the University of Benin, Benin City, Dr. Ihoeghian earned both his B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering with an MSc. Degree from University of Lagos, Akoka. His Ph.D. research focused on sustainable biogas production, specifically the co-digestion of cattle rumen content and food waste. His findings, particularly on optimal mixing ratios, laid the groundwork for the ACTUATE Biogas Production Project, funded by the UK's Global Challenges Research Fund. He successfully implemented his research findings through the design and operation of a community-scale anaerobic biodigester plant at the University of Benin, which featured a 6.5 kVA generator and demonstrated the effective processing of 7.5 tonnes of abattoir waste per batch. His research findings have been published in various academic journals and have received citations from researchers worldwide, demonstrating their significance and impact within the scientific community.
Dr. Ihoeghian's work in sustainable energy and biogas production has applications beyond academia. His development of biogas canisters that generate energy from abattoir waste laid the foundation for the ACTUATE Project, which aims to create sustainable energy alternatives in Africa. The success of his biogas canister research proved instrumental in securing funding for the ACTUATE project through the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF). This 30m³ biogas production project demonstrated the benefits of anaerobic digester technology and circular economy principles through community-based demonstration systems in Nigeria. His research outputs and efforts were crucial both in securing the funding and successfully executing the project. Supported by the UK's Global Challenges Research Fund, this initiative shows how his research can contribute to cleaner waste management and energy solutions. His work has made significant contributions to multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically addressing affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), and zero hunger (SDG 2).
The impact of this work extended to communities across the Niger Delta region in Nigeria. Local residents were educated and encouraged to adopt green energy practices using their domestic waste in collaboration with the Partnership Initiative for Niger Delta (PIND), Coastal and Marine Areas Development Initiative (CMADI), and the Institute of Mangrove Ecology Environmental Technology (MEET). Dr. Ihoeghian and his research team expanded their outreach through targeted workshops for local artisans and abattoir operators, ensuring practical implementation of sustainable practices. Recognizing the importance of early environmental education, they also conducted workshops and seminars in primary and secondary schools, helping to cultivate environmental consciousness in younger generations. This comprehensive approach to education and training demonstrated their commitment to building a sustainable future through both immediate action and long-term community development.
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In recognition of his contributions to these fully funded projects and their successful outcomes, Dr. Ihoeghian was awarded the prestigious MITRE (Maximizing Impact Through RECIRCULATE) fellowship by RECIRCULATE team Lancaster University UK, joining other distinguished scholars in this honor.
Dr. Newton A. Ihoeghian's journey in sustainable energy engineering shows the value of expertise in addressing environmental challenges. As Alan Kay once said, "The best way to predict the future is to invent it". This typifies the proactive approach Dr. Ihoeghian takes in contributing to environmental solutions through innovative research. By his approach, Dr. Ihoeghian is not just making strides in research; he is dedicating himself to help shape a more sustainable future for communities worldwide.
