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WELCOME TO CREALGAE
Based at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, CreAlgae is creating an algae-based bioplastic and bioresin using harmful algal blooms from local waterways.
Please join us by supporting our efforts to make a measurable difference in our community and environment.
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WHO WE ARE
CreAlgae is a subsidiary of Illinois Enactus, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign devoted to creating innovative solutions to address social and environmental issues in the Champaign-Urbana community.
Here at CreAlgae, we know that sometimes all it takes to change the world is a little support. Since we were founded in 2019, we have been determined to make a tangible impact by reducing the harmful algal blooms from local waterways.
CreAlgae is built on three main pillars:
01
Development
Over the course of a few years, our team has developed a variety of formulas aimed to target different material characteristics. Our most recent and successful formulas have been our thin and flexible and thin and rigid ones. Through testing different ratios of locally sourced algae, chitosan, carrageenan, and a handful of other ingredients, we have produced a few promising products.
02
Research
Our team has recently been spending more time in performing market research in order to determine where our niche fit might be. After a period of time, we decided that we fit best in small businesses who value sustainable practices. For example, an art shop in chicago where everything is recycled or made from biodegradable materials. In addition to this, we also see an avenue for an online market where it would be easier for buyers to purchase our product.
03
Community
CreAlgae aims to involve anyone and everyone in efforts to combat the damage plastic has done to the environment. At the top of this list is simply education, and teaching people that their buying habits really impact the environment around them.
WHAT WE ARE DOING
CreAlgae involves six main factions to make a tangible difference: Prototyping, Market Research, LCA, TAB, Community Outreach, and Awareness & Education.
The first essential step in achieving our project's mission is prototyping. This is where the magic happens. Our project fellows and associates work hours upon hours perfecting procedures to develop strong, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and most of all eco-friendly prototypes of our bioplastic and bioresin. This has been the primary focus in past semesters and we have reached a point where we can start prioritizing other key components of the project.
Our focus for this semester is market research. This involves the marketability of our product. We want a product that not only fulfills our mission but also truly makes a difference by having a critical role in the bioplastic and bioresin market. Essentially, we want our product to sell so we can aid our planet, which is no light task. This involves conducting a thorough Life Cycle Analysis, communicating with our Technical Advisory Board, reaching out to our C-U community to whom these products will ultimately go, and spreading awareness.
To stay up-to-date with CreAlgae, follow our Instagram @crealgae!