LAYA POTHUNURI
INDIA, 19
Project: Sustainable Solutions
Basic Human Needs: Environment, Health, Shelter, Water
From a young age, Laya had a passion for protecting the planet. When she was 12 years-old, Laya decided to apply her interest in science to create environmental solutions accessible to everyone. Laya’s first venture was to implement and promote urban agricultural methods in developing areas throughout India. Laya’s next innovation was an air filter to reduce pollution from vehicular emissions and the health problems it caused, which were both major issues in India. As a participant in India’s National Children's Science Congress, Laya worked to strengthen the aquatic mangrove ecosystem to help reduce global warming effects. Her various innovations earned Laya the 2016 National Child Award for Exceptional Achievements, given to her by the former President of India, Sri. Pranab Mukherjee. Shortly after, Laya created a system to generate electricity from organic substrates, with the potential to control improper waste disposal and reduce industrial pollution. Along with upscaling her projects, Laya is currently working on a sustainable way to replace plastics with 4-dimensional printing of ceramics. Her solutions to improve the environment have received several prestigious awards. Most recently in February 2019, she was recognized by the State Bank of India as a 20 under 20 ‘Promising Game Changer,” and had the opportunity to meet the President of India, Sri. Ramnath Kovind. Laya will continue challenging herself to create ways that contribute to the planet and its people.