In a vibrant display of innovation and environmental consciousness, students from the Elko County School District showcased their groundbreaking projects at the recent STEM fair, held on March 25, 2025. Among the standout presentations was Avery Scholpi's exploration of biodegradable algae plastic, a creative solution to the pressing issue of plastic pollution.

Avery, with a passion for sustainability, shared her journey of researching alternatives to traditional plastics. Instead of aiming to eliminate plastic entirely, she focused on developing a more sustainable option using biopolymers derived from seaweed. Her experiments led to the creation of three different plastic prototypes, each varying in strength and flexibility based on the amount of carrageenan, a biopolymer extracted from algae. While the prototypes demonstrated promising characteristics, Avery candidly noted that they emitted an unpleasant odor, a challenge she hopes to address in future iterations.

The excitement in the room was palpable as board members and attendees engaged with Avery, offering encouragement and suggestions for further development. One board member even recommended collaborating with a company that specializes in seaweed-based fabrics to tackle the odor issue, highlighting the potential for Avery's project to evolve into a commercially viable product.

Another student, Max Fraley, presented his own project on polymers, delving into the fascinating world of milk-based plastics. His research revealed how different types of milk, particularly their fat content, influenced the properties of the plastics he created. Max's experiments demonstrated that 0% milk produced a more rigid plastic, while whole and 2% milk resulted in a more flexible material. His enthusiasm for the project was evident, as he expressed interest in exploring other milk types and acids to further enhance his findings.

The STEM fair not only showcased the ingenuity of these young minds but also underscored the importance of addressing environmental challenges through innovative solutions. As the students prepare for national competitions, their projects serve as a reminder of the potential for creativity and science to intersect in meaningful ways. The Elko County School District continues to foster an environment where students can explore, experiment, and contribute to a more sustainable future.