Walnut Creek Student Honored By EPA

WALNUT CREEK, CA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a freshman at Las Lomas High School in Walnut Creek for creating an innovative solution to microplastic pollution.

Melanie Quan was selected from a pool of 1,793 students who competed in the Intel Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburgh beginning on May 13.

Her project is titled "Microplastics, Macro Problem," and aims to filter microplastics out of water using sustainable, low-cost technology. Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces smaller than 5 millimeters that can be harmful to aquatic life, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Quan's project suggests using a modified electrostatic smoke precipitator, a filtration system, to minimize microfibers in everything from laundry loads to commercial and industrial waste.

"I can't believe I won a special award from the EPA," Quan said in a statement. "What an honor!"

She said she hopes her project is an inspiration to other people who want to find solutions for microplastic pollution.

With the award, Quan will receive funding to present her project at the EPA National Design Expo next year in Washington, D.C.

— Bay City News; Image via EPA