The Year 13 students, Adit Mital, Anushka Harlalka, and Maanit Misra, were inspired by the vast quantities of poultry feathers discarded globally each year, which pose environmental challenges due to their resistance to natural degradation. Their process focuses on extracting useful materials from feathers without resorting to energy-intensive methods like burning.
After months of research and laboratory experiments, including initial trials in December 2025, the team developed nine nutrient-rich formulations. Early controlled tests on bok choy and radishes showed promising results, with growth measurements indicating a 20-30% increase compared to commercial treatments, though further validation is needed.
The project has moved beyond the laboratory, with trials conducted at 16 farms and nurseries in the UAE, Oman, and India, involving over 1,200 farmers. This real-world testing helps the students understand the practical applications and requirements for scaling up their innovation. The teenagers have also filed a provisional patent application for their unique process.
Balancing their academic commitments with the demanding research, the students adapted to challenges such as limited laboratory access by conducting experiments at home. They are now planning to present their findings to Dubai Municipality and explore opportunities within the Dubai Farms program to further expand their biofertilizer initiative.