M. Tenith Adithyaa, Plus Two student from Watrap, has won gold medal at the International Environment Sustainability Project Olympiad for his invention of a method to preserve banana leaves up to a year.
He got the award, comprising a gold medal, a trophy, an achievement certificate and a cash award of 250 Euros, at the Olympiad held between June 1 and June 6 at Hague, the Netherlands. He was one among 400 students from 60 countries who participated in the event. His was one of the five projects selected from India by the Science Society of India for the Olympiad.
Explaining his project, Mr. Adithyaa said that banana leaves turn dry within two to three days and go waste. “But, my technology preserves them for a year without use of any chemical. Besides, it increases their durability, stretch-ability and crushability. Preserved leaves can resist extreme temperatures and hold more weight than their original nature.”
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The patent-pending technology strengthens cell walls of leaves and prevents pathogenic agents from destroying cells. The processed leaves could replace plastics for making plates, cups and containers. “These leaves are biodegradable; so, they are eco-friendly. They will also be cost-effective by at least 80 per cent,” he said.