Safety
High School Students Innovate Eco-Friendly Cat Litter from Sugarcane Waste
Students from Nakhon Phanom have developed a biodegradable cat litter using recycled sugarcane waste, aiming to reduce PM2.5 pollution caused by agricultural burning.
A group of high school students from Saharat Rangsarit School in Nakhon Phanom has developed 'Caneko,' an innovative, biodegradable cat litter made from recycled sugarcane waste. According to Khaosod Online, the project emerged as a response to the common practice of burning sugarcane residue, which contributes to harmful PM2.5 dust levels in local communities.
The product was showcased as part of the 2025-2026 EnviroTech Innovation Competition, founded by International School Bangkok (ISB) students Pun Panjarungroj and Nopavee Vibulsiri. The team behind Caneko was one of five finalists to receive 30,000 THB in prototype funding. The litter, which incorporates zinc oxide and ash, is designed as a sustainable alternative to traditional bentonite clay, which can pose respiratory risks to both pets and owners.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights a growing trend in Thai youth-led environmental entrepreneurship. By repurposing agricultural waste, the students aim to provide a functional, eco-friendly consumer product. While the prototype has been refined over a month to improve clumping capabilities, it remains to be seen how the product will perform in a competitive retail market and when it will be available for widespread commercial purchase. The project serves as a notable example of how local waste management challenges are being addressed through student-led innovation.
