In Indiana, three students have won a soybean product innovation contest for their biodegradable, soybean-based drinking straw.
The $20,000 prize will be shared by “Team Stoy”—Natalie Stephenson, a senior in the Krannert School of Management; Morgan Malm, a graduate student in the College of Science; and Ruth Zhong, a senior in the College of Engineering.
“I … developed a passion for biodegradable material production,” says Stephenson. “It’s so rewarding to put time and energy into a product worth fighting for, and I wholeheartedly believe that Stroy has a true potential to significantly positively impact the environment.”
Runner up went to Team Soy Seal’s soy nanocellulose wood finish, while Team Soyshield came in third for soy-based windshield wiper fluid.
The competition is funded by the Indiana Soybean Checkoff.