TUT student innovator turns agricultural waste into award-winning ‘biomulchies’
Tshwane University of Technology student Onndinadaho Rasilwela has won a top prize for developing 'Biomulchies,' a biodegradable plastic made from agricultural waste. This innovation offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic mulch used in agriculture.
Why it matters
This project addresses the dual challenge of agricultural waste management and soil degradation caused by non-biodegradable plastics in farming.
ednews.africa Jul 01, 2026 Share Onndinadaho Rasilwela, a member of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme’s (SWEEP) bioplastic innovation has won first prize at the 2026 Green Youth Indaba, taking home R150 000 in cash for a project that transforms sugarcane bagasse and maize stalk into biodegradable mulching plastic. This innovation could change the face of sustainable agriculture in South Africa.
The report is a straightforward account of an award-winning innovation and its environmental benefits.
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