Earth Prize 2026: Indian teenagers win global praise for tamarind-based water microplastic removal solution

The students behind the project are Vivaan Chhawchharia, Ariana Agarwal, and Avyana Mehta, all aged 16, as per reports. They reportedly developed the solution with guidance from experts at Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. 

Plas-Stick uses biodegradable powder made from tamarind seed waste. The powder is added to contaminated water and mixed for a short time. It binds tiny microplastic particles into visible clumps. These clumps can then be removed using a handheld magnet. The system does not require electricity or expensive equipment.

The students reportedly said the idea was inspired by lack of affordable water purification systems in rural areas. They observed that many communities store drinking water in shared containers without access to advanced filtration technology. The team received a grant of $12,500 (₹11,92,033) to continue research and expand the project across India. 

According to global studies, more than 2.2 billion people do not have access to safely managed drinking water. Scientists have also found microplastics in human organs, including the brain and placenta, raising health concerns worldwide.

Tamarind, the main material used in Plas-Stick, is widely available across South Asia. The students believe this can help keep the solution affordable and accessible for rural communities.The project has reportedly reached more than 8,000 people through demonstrations and awareness campaigns. 

Recent studies have reportedly shown that microplastics are present in rivers, lakes, oceans, packaged food, and bottled drinking water around the world. These tiny plastic particles are created when larger plastic waste breaks down over time through sunlight, heat, and pollution.

India is one of the largest producers and consumers of tamarind in the world, especially in southern and central regions. 

The Earth Prize is organized by The Earth Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded during the 2019 climate movement to support youth-led environmental innovations.