A 14-year-old student from Brazil has demonstrated how a simple school science project can inspire practical solutions to one of the world’s biggest environmental challenges. Lucas Tadao Sugahara Wernick developed biodegradable food trays using cassava peels, araucaria tree residues and natural cassava starch, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional Styrofoam packaging. By transforming agricultural waste into sustainable packaging, Lucas is highlighting the potential of circular innovation while encouraging the use of renewable materials over petroleum-based plastics. From School Science Project to Sustainable InnovationWhat began as a classroom science project evolved into an award-winning research initiative focused on reducing plastic pollution and agricultural waste. A student at Colégio Bom Jesus Centro in Curitiba, Brazil, Lucas explored whether discarded plant materials could replace conventional Styrofoam trays commonly used for packaging fruits and vegetables.