Sammamish teens win business pitch with an idea that stinks

In a remarkable display of entrepreneurial innovation, three Eastlake High School students, Bharat Dwivedi, Ajay Raghavan, and Rohan Kalra, clinched first place in the Emerging Entrepreneurs Challenge on July 10, 2024, with their groundbreaking idea of transforming cow manure into cement. The competition, co-hosted by the King County Library System and the Sammamish Chamber of Commerce, recognized their project that aims to combat methane emissions, a significant contributor to climate change. Kalra explained that the cement industry accounts for 8% of global gas emissions, and since cow manure emits considerable methane, their solution could effectively reduce both emissions and agricultural waste. The students uncovered that Washington state produces more than 5. 7 million pounds of cow manure each year, presenting a substantial local issue that their project addresses.

Drawing on their experiences from DECA, a business-focused student organization, and relevant marketing classes, they crafted a detailed business plan. Their winning idea not only demonstrates their entrepreneurial capabilities but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in addressing environmental concerns. This achievement highlights the potential for young innovators to make a meaningful impact on both local and global challenges. With a $250 prize, they are encouraged to further develop their innovative concept.