Gracelyn, this high school student created a microplastic free paper coffee cup
Jakarta – An Indonesian high school student, Gracelyn Atmadiah, offers a breakthrough that reflects the concern for health and environmental sustainability. Through adult scientific research and guidance of world -class scientists, Gracelyn has developed a plastic replacement layer for paper cups so far, paper cups are considered environmentally friendly, but actually keep hidden threats, namely microplastic release when in contact with hot fluids. “I want people to enjoy a cup of coffee without worrying about the long -term impact on the body and the environment,” Gracelyn said in his statement, Friday (5/30/2025). Browse to continue with the content. It was transferred by Gracarta Scholars Symposium (JSS) scientific presentation event entitled Advocacy in Action, held on Wednesday (28/5) at Soehanna Hall Scbd, South Jakarta. Under the guidance of the Nobel Nobel winner candidate, dr. Thomas Webster, has developed gracelyn solutions so that paper cups can naturally be dissolved and effectively recovered, while the microplastic risk can be reduced. This innovation uses iceternano particles (II) oxide that has magnetic properties and a high surface. These nano particles are combined with a layer of protective plastic in the cup, so that it remains waterproof, but it can easily be decomposed and easily separated during the recycling process using a magnetic field. This allows the caterpillar and the protective layer to be restored without polluting the environment. In Indonesia, disposable plastic waste, such as a cup of drinks, contributes a significant amount to the garbage crisis. This approach has the potential to be an environmentally friendly solution relevant to the local context, as well as supportive efforts to reduce microplastic pollution. “This innovation is here to answer the global challenges that often escape our daily attention,” he added. Photo: Special Coffee Cup paper cup that is used regularly is currently covered with thin plastic on the inside, making it difficult to decompose and cannot be fully recycled. More worrying, a number of scientific studies show that exposure to high temperature can cause this plastic microplastic to release in drinks. Microplastics were found in the human body, also in the blood and vital organs, thereby increasing long -term health risks. The technology developed by Gracelyn offers a real alternative that is safe and deserves to be adopted by the liquor and restaurant industry players. In addition to environmentally friendly, the magnetic separation system provides a high efficiency in waste treatment and supports the circular economic system that is increasingly needed by the world. “Keeping the earth is not just to put garbage in place. But also to pay attention to the little things we consume every day and its impact on this planet,” Gracelyn continued. Gracelyn’s vision doesn’t stop here. He was determined to bring this innovation to the Great Coffee Shop network and is currently in a discussion with a number of local cafes to begin the next phase trial with the acceptance of the realcycle cup he created. The innovation of Gracelyn Atmadja confirmed that the young generation of Indonesia not only had the potential, but also the courage and intelligence to be a driver of global change. His work is not just a technical solution, but a symbol of a new paradigm that can start a healthier and more sustainable future from small steps, but have a big impact, such as a coffee cup with an iron -nano particles based (ii) oxide that is safer for the body and the earth. With the Realcycle Cup, Gracelyn opens the way for a more concerned lifestyle, healthier and more sustainable. Photo: Special Initiative Gracelyn reaps broad appreciation of academics, industry players, to international scientists. One is Muhamad Amal, PhD, one of the researchers at the Nanotechnology System Research Center, the National Research and Innovation Agency has revealed “Gracelyn is a concrete example of an Indonesian young generation that is able to catch small problems that are often ignored by the broader community.” “By combining social sensitivity, a scientific approach and a strong determination, it has managed to formulate solutions that are not only locally relevant but also have the potential to have a global impact. In a complex and diverse Indonesian context, its sensitivity to micro -issues becomes important assets to encourage the real change of the root of the root. (AKN/EGA) HOEGENG Awards 2025 Read the inspiring story of the exemplary police candidate here