An internationally-renowned Irish scientist has been awarded an OBE from the Queen of England for his work in developing biofuels from whisky residues.
Professor Martin Tangney, originally from Cork, is based at Edinburgh Napier University. He is the founder of Celtic Renewables, which has hit the headlines worldwide for developing a process that converts whisky residue into a sustainable fuel called biobutanol.
Earlier this year, in a world first, Celtic Renewables used its biofuel to power a car in Edinburgh.
“This is an incredible honour that came very much out of the blue and I am humbled to be in the company of some outstanding Irish people who have received an Honorary OBE,” Professor Tangney said. “An honour of this magnitude reflects far more than I could accomplish as an individual and I am very grateful to the many people who have guided and shaped my career, and me as a person, over the years which has resulted in this tremendous recognition.”
Professor Tangney joins an elite group of Irish-born citizens, including actor Pierce Brosnan, in receiving recognition from the Palace.
