An international and multidisciplinary team of students from Walla Walla University is developing a new biogas production process for clean, affordable and sustainable energy. Team BioNova was the recipient of the $5,000 EarthLab Community Impact Prize at this year’s Alaska Airlines Environmental Innovation Challenge hosted by the UW Foster School’s Buerk Center for Entrepreneurship. More than 100 cleantech entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors reviewed 21 business plans in the final round and awarded nearly $45,000 in prizes in the 15th year of the competition.
BioNova’s innovative coated nylon bag design breaks down animal waste to create fuel that can be used for cooking or in generators. While other methods of producing biogas require large investment and are still expensive to the end user, the BioNova bags are low cost and lightweight. Their production model and connections to the carbon credit market will ensure clean fuel at a fraction of the current rate. The team stood out on its commitment to community impact through thoughtful partnerships with NGOs in Zimbabwe and Tanzania to address community needs for stable employment, clean energy and economic empowerment for women.
Their first bioreactor will be deployed in Ludewa, Tanzania this year. Congratulations to the WWU Team: Mark Wilber, MSW; William Elloway, Computer Science; Nyasha Pazvakawambwa, Business; George Perez, Psychology & Marketing; Takudzwa Pazvakawambwa, Business.
