We recently caught up with the national champion and runners-up of the 2024 Innovation and Impact Challenge, powered by Enactus Alumni, to learn about the progress and new developments in their projects. From new branding to advancements in research and development, these teams have some impressive updates to share.
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EmerAlt (formerly Plastarch Packaging) – Saint Mary’s University, Champion
EmerAlt offers a bioplastic solution for single-use cutlery and packaging, providing environmentally conscious business owners with a durable and affordable alternative.
This summer, the team tested multiple iterations of their formula with expert guidance from Dr. Said Elkoun, a professor of Mechanical Engineering at Sherbrooke University. Dr. Elkoun helped the team develop a new formula which pilots this year. The team has already received letters of intent from several restaurants eager to try their products.
Between funding from the challenge and The John Dobson Foundation, the team purchased new equipment to support further research and development.
The product also rebranded from Plastarch to EmerAlt, meaning “green alternative”. Logo and brand redesign are underway, with plans to promote the social enterprise on a larger scale in the near future.
The team expressed their appreciation for the Innovation and Impact Challenge, stating, “It allows us to showcase our newer projects and show the time and effort that goes into coming up with these ideas and solutions. We also enjoy the opportunity to speak directly to alumni as they also have shared experiences and understand the Enactus environment,”
EmerAlt’s team with product pilot partner, Lakeview Cafe & Eatery | Image Credit: Enactus Saint Mary’s (submitted)
Aqua Analyzer – Simon Fraser University, Runner-Up
Aqua Analyzer is a water monitoring technology that tests water quality by measuring parameters including total dissolved solids, pH, and temperature. The team’s goal is to empower Indigenous communities to perform essential water testing and collect actionable data to address water quality issues. Their project also has environmental applications, helping to monitor and mitigate the impact of environmental changes on aquatic ecosystems.
The team has focused on optimizing project management and research and development, expanding the scope of their sensors and improving their device case design.
They’ve also been refining the code to make the device more user-friendly, minimizing errors in data collection and analysis. “Our improved prototype design focuses more on the user, making more efficient use of space and energy, and thus decreasing the estimated commercial price as we make more portable prototypes.”
When it comes to why they enjoy the Innovation and Impact Challenge they shared that “the emphasis on real-world impact motivates us to think bigger and strive for even greater contributions to our community.”
Aqua Analyzer team conducting research & development | Image Credit: Enactus Simon Fraser University (submitted)
Project R3D – Memorial University of Newfoundland, Second Runner-Up
Project R3D addresses discarded fishing or “ghost” gear pollution in oceans by repurposing plastic waste into 3D printing filament.
The team has made significant progress in improving the structure and innovation, focusing on developing a stronger final product. By applying their expertise in sustainable 3D printing, they hope to present these new developments in upcoming Enactus competitions this year.
Their progress has received positive feedback from business owners in their community. Project Manager Gavin Janes said, “Representing a project that cultivates such strong enthusiasm from our entire province is a monumental success”.
Colin Murphy, a 3D printing entrepreneur and student at the Marine Institute, discovered Project R3D while seeking eco-friendly 3D printer filament. He’s thrilled to support local entrepreneurs and says, “Since dealing with Project R3D, I have not only been able to improve my own entrepreneurial pursuits in the 3D printing field, but also peace of mind that simply by getting my filament from Project R3D, I am also contributing to cleaner and safer oceans for everyone.”
The team enjoys the Innovation and Impact Challenge because it “embodies the Enactus spirit we all signed up for.” They added, “Creating a student-led company is astounding, but creating a student led company which continuously innovates on its ideas and positively impacts everything around it, is incredible.”
Enactus Memorial at the 2024 Enactus Canada Regional Exposition – Atlantic Canada | Image Credit: Enactus Canada
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We’re excited to see these projects continue to grow and the positive impact they will have on their communities.
Want to stay updated on this year’s Impact Challenge finalists?
The 2025 regional competitions are just around the corner starting with Atlantic Canada on February 27-28, Central Canada on March 5-6, and Western Canada on March 13-14. Follow us on social media for updates after each event!