Wed Sep 18 16:14:00 UTC 2024: ## Cebuano Researchers Win International Award for Bioplastics Made From Shrimp Shells and Mango Waste

**Cebu City, Philippines** – The University of San Carlos (USC) and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) have earned international recognition for their innovative approach to tackling plastic pollution. Their collaborative project, “Unusually Sustainable – Bioplastics from Shrimp Shells Plus Mango Waste,” won a top-10 spot in the Nature Awards for the Science in Shorts filmmaking competition, held at the Curious2024 Future Insight Conference in Mainz, Germany.

The video, showcasing the creation of biodegradable bioplastics from readily available agricultural waste, captured the attention of a 2,000-strong audience and earned their vote as one of the most compelling entries.

The project, funded by SEARCA’s Grants for Research toward Agricultural Innovative Solutions (Grains), offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics. Led by Professor Francis Siacor and engineer Kristine Claire Villanueva, the USC team successfully transformed shrimp shells and mango waste into a sustainable and low-carbon bioplastic material.

This innovative solution not only addresses the urgent issue of plastic pollution but also exemplifies the potential of circular agriculture in waste management. By transforming discarded materials into valuable products, the project contributes to a more sustainable future, aligning with SEARCA’s mission of advancing agricultural innovation and fostering sustainable development.

“This recognition is a testament to the potential of agricultural research in addressing global challenges like plastic pollution,” said SEARCA Director Glenn Gregorio. “We are proud to support projects like this through Grains to accelerate the adoption of groundbreaking technologies that benefit both people and the planet.”

The winning video, now available on the official Nature Awards Science in Shorts platform, showcases the power of local research to make a significant impact on the global stage. This collaboration between USC and SEARCA serves as an inspiration for further innovation and collaboration in the fight against plastic pollution and towards a more sustainable future.

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