Young Minds Pitch ‘Waste to Wealth’ Ideas at AP Economy Ideathon
The event brought together bright young minds from across the state
VIJAYAWADA: At a time when sustainability is at the forefront of global discourse, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), in collaboration with the Commissionerate of Collegiate Education, organised a State-Level Circular Economy Ideathon to inspire students to be innovative.
As part of it, Maris Stella College auditorium in Vijayawada hosted the ideathon on Friday under the aegis of Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), with support from Youkthi R.I.S.E. The event brought together bright young minds from across the state.
The ideathon encouraged students to develop solutions that transform waste into valuable resources, while promoting awareness on sustainability and entrepreneurship. Undergraduate and postgraduate students presented ideas on recycling plastic, textile, agricultural, and municipal waste to generate livelihood opportunities.
The competition featured two categories — Srujana for innovative concepts and Aakruti for products created from waste. Out of nearly 500 applications received, 50 teams have been shortlisted for the final round.
Participants impressed the jury with concept presentations and live demonstrations, with some showcasing tangible products.
In the Srujana category, Sai Latha’s team from Maris Stella College bagged the first prize of ₹15,000 for developing eco-friendly containers using tamarind seeds as an alternative to plastic.
In Aakruti, Tarakeswari from Banaganapalle Government Degree College secured the top prize for demonstrating sanitary napkin production using banana fibre.
Speaking on the occasion, APPCB chairman Dr. P. Krishnaiah underscored the importance of instilling environmental consciousness among students at the college level to build a socially responsible generation.
Youkthi R.I.S.E. founder Yashaswini Peddi said such platforms nurture creativity and provide innovative solutions for environmental challenges.
