Two Waubonsee Community College students, Briana Harris and Kevin Bustamente Fontanel, of Yorkville, achieved a second-place finish at the University of Illinois’ fourth annual “Reimagine Our Future” sustainability competition. The virtual event took place on December 7, 2024. It featured 250 undergraduate students from colleges and universities worldwide. Harris and Bustamente Fontanel stood out as the only community college students competing on an international stage.
Guided by Waubonsee faculty members Steven Zusman, Associate Professor of Philosophy, and David Voorhees, Professor of Earth Science and Geology, the Waubonsee team excelled in a rigorous challenge to develop an impactful, sustainable solution addressing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Harris and Bustamente Fontanel proposed a new product named “Return,” a 100% biodegradable water bottle crafted from waste-derived wax, cellulose acetate, and triacetin plasticizer. Unlike traditional plastic bottles, Return fully decomposes within two years, offering a sustainable and transformative solution to the global plastic crisis.
“Representing Waubonsee on the international stage was a proud moment for us,” said Bustamente Fontanel. “Our mission is to give back and create a lasting, positive legacy for our community, our college, and the world.”
Harris and Bustamente Fontanel dedicated eight weeks to developing their proposal, collaborating to tackle a real-world challenge. They competed against students from higher education institutions across the USA, UK, Ukraine, South Africa, China, Austria, Colombia, and Italy.
"Creating Return was not an effortless journey,” added Harris. “It took many failed ideas, extensive research, and countless brainstorming sessions to come up with what we believe to be a truly transformative product. We hope that one day Return will replace plastic water bottles on supermarket shelves. Addressing the global plastic crisis begins with innovative changes like this one.”
The “Reimagine Our Future” sustainability competition was made possible by the efforts of more than 100 volunteer specialist advisors, judges, and university contacts.
“Being part of the Sustainability Challenge was a transformative experience that showcased our power of determination and collaboration,” said Bustamente Fontanel.
Above: Waubonsee Community College students Briana Harris and Kevin Bustamente Fontanel captivated the audience with their engaging and entertaining presentation at the University of Illinois’ fourth annual “Reimagine Our Future” sustainability competition held virtually on December 7, 2024.
