CNN’s latest episode of Tomorrow Transformed, aired on December 28, 2025, highlights key innovations that are shaping a more sustainable future. The series examines how businesses and societies are evolving through technological advancements, focusing on diverse initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact across various industries.
One significant feature of the episode is a visit to Sydney, Australia, home to the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Renowned for its contributions to photovoltaics, UNSW is led by Professor Martin Green, often referred to as the “father of solar energy.” His innovative design, the PERC Cell, is now utilized in over 90% of solar cells installed globally. The university is also home to Professor Ned Ekins-Daukes and PhD student Jamie Harrison, who are exploring ways to harness energy naturally lost as heat escapes from the Earth’s surface.
While solar energy has reached unprecedented affordability, researchers are actively working to enhance production efficiency. Vince Allen, co-founder of the startup SunDrive, is leading efforts to replace the costly and rare material silver in solar cell manufacturing with copper, a significantly more abundant and economical alternative.
The episode continues its journey to Cape Town, South Africa, where HYENA (Hydrogen Energy Applications) is innovating energy solutions using the world’s most abundant element, hydrogen. Co-founder Jack Fletcher shares insights on their “Power Pod” technology, which offers a quieter, more efficient, and cleaner alternative to traditional diesel generators. By converting fuels such as LPG into electricity through a chemical process rather than combustion, HYENA significantly reduces emissions and noise pollution associated with standard engines.
In Johor, Malaysia, CNN visits EcoCeres, a biofuels company at the forefront of producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The company is pioneering advanced jet fuels from renewable resources, effectively transforming waste and residue oils from food production into viable fuel alternatives. Matti Lievonen, CEO of EcoCeres, emphasizes that while the science behind their innovation is commendable, the real breakthrough lies in the operational model they have developed. The biorefinery is set to produce 420,000 tonnes of fuel annually, with partners such as Cathay Pacific, Qantas, and British Airways already utilizing their SAF.
As EcoCeres expands its operations across Southeast Asia and strengthens its supply chain in China, the potential for future flights powered by recycled materials becomes increasingly likely. The next time you board an aircraft, it may be fueled by cooking oil sourced from local restaurants or food factories.
Through the lens of Tomorrow Transformed, CNN illuminates the transformative power of innovation and technology in advancing sustainability. The episode serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to address global challenges and highlights the significant strides being made toward a greener future.
