New England teen turns citrus waste into reforestation pods

October 27, 2026 |

In Massachusetts, a 13 year old Kaia Minn has developed a biodegradable seed pod for use in reforestation following fires. The invention uses discarded citrus peels and other biobased raw materials and gives the seeds protection through germination. Dispersion could be done either by hand or drone, according to Economic Times. 

The Economic Times reported that Minn was moved to develop the seed conveyance after seeing news coverage of widespread fires in Canada and California. 

While the project still needs field testing, the work has earned Minn accolades. She was selected as a finalist for the Genspirational Prize as well as the US National Innovator Challenge. 

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Category: Chemicals & Materials

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