Seaweed Saves

Problem:

With an estimation of eight million tons of plastic being thrown into our oceans yearly, I was motivated to find a solution and find a way to prevent an accumulation of plastic waste in oceans. Damaging our oceans by littering are one of the most common ways to kill off oceanic species and damage reefs. Plastic bags and bottles can be consumed by aquatic animals, and other oceanic species, killing off our sea animals with a supply of toxins in our waters.

Idea:

A solution I have created is a biodegradable plastic bottle being made entirely of seaweed. Seaweed is biodegradable, and not harmful to oceanic species, as it is safe for them to eat and can improve the quality of our waters. Seaweed provides great nutrients for our aquatic animals and oceans, helping preserve our Earth.

Main Beneficiaries:

Seaweed is beneficial to our environment by being a material that is more safe for the animals and the ocean. As my product idea grows, I aim to reach as many people as I can with my biodegradable plastic idea. The more people using these bottles, the greater the benefit for our oceans and aquatic animals. My bottle idea will only take a few weeks to biodegrade, whereas plastic bags and water bottles take 100-1,000 years.

Stage:

Inspiration and ideation

SDG:

GOAL 14: Life Below Water

GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

University:

University of Miami (USA)