USC, SEARCA wins global accolade for bioplastics project

The University of San Carlos (USC) and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) shared the spotlight when the SEARCA Grants for Research towards Agricultural Innovative Solutions (GRAINS) project of USC was named one of the Top 10 entries in the prestigious Nature Awards for the Science in Shorts filmmaking competition.

This recognition shines a spotlight on groundbreaking work in sustainable agriculture, with the SEARCA x USC entry competing against 250 global submissions.

The winning video, titled “Unusually sustainable – bioplastics from shrimp shells plus mango waste!”, introduces an innovative approach to tackling plastic pollution by creating biodegradable bioplastics from shrimp shells and mango waste. This eco-friendly, low-carbon solution is a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics and addresses one of the most pressing environmental issues of today.

The project was led by Dr. Francis Siacor of USC with financial support from SEARCA GRAINS, which funds innovative agricultural research projects, supports knowledge sharing, and facilitates partnerships to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies.

USC’s bioplastics project exemplifies how GRAINS nurtures agricultural solutions that have both environmental and societal impact.

The USC project highlights the role of circular agriculture in waste management. By transforming discarded materials into bioplastics, the project not only mitigates plastic pollution but also adds value to agricultural waste products. This aligns with SEARCA’s mission of advancing agricultural innovation and fostering sustainable development.

The Nature Awards for Science in Shorts is a global competition that encourages researchers to communicate complex scientific ideas through creative and concise videos.

The competition showcases the importance of science communication to bridge the gap between research and public understanding.

USC’s entry was celebrated at the Curious2024 Future Insight Conference in Mainz, Germany where the Top 10 films were premiered.

“This recognition is a testament to the potential of agricultural research in addressing global challenges like plastic pollution, Dr. Glenn Gregorio, SEARCA Center Director, said.

He added that “We are proud to support projects like this through GRAINS to accelerate the adoption of groundbreaking technologies that benefit both people and the planet.”

Atty. Eric Reynoso, SEARCA Program Head for Emerging Innovation and Growth, said the Top 10 distinction garnered by the SEARCA x USC collaboration showcased the potential of local research to make a significant impact on the global stage.

The Top 10 videos, including the SEARCA x USC entry, are available for viewing on the official Nature Awards Science in Shorts platform.