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I am a 26 years old environmental specialist and entrepreneur with a BSc in Ecology and MSc in Environmental Impact Assessments. While I was a student (2010) I started my own business in making eco-friendly, handmade soap from 100% natural ingredients. Over the years Jovis Cosmetics (www.jovis-homemade-beauty.ro) grew into what is now a family run company, based in Romania. In parallel, I have also focused on developing my skills in environmental science, working in environmental consultancy and also at European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, Sustainable Resources Directorate. I am creative and dynamic, and driven to evolve and excel.
Ioana Matei - Romanian, Europe
2017 Winner | | Romanian
Used cooking oil (UCO) pollutes the environment when disposed of improperly. It is one of the least recycled waste products in households, mainly because UCO collection from individuals is not yet well developed in most countries. Most commonly it is poured down sinks, clogging drainage systems and adding substantial costs for cleaning pipes and treating wastewater. My idea is to develop a green business model based on making soap and detergents from used cooking oil, aiming to: 1) increase UCO recycling rate; 2) produce environmentally friendly cleaning products; and 3) help create sustainable communities and circular economies (local material, local produce and local use). Once validated and established, this model can be adopted and implemented by municipalities with benefits for the local communities. Moreover, the project has the potential to stimulate people’s involvement in UCO collection by offering them an end product that can be used directly in their households.
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NOTE: This content was shared online for the 2019 cycle of the Young Champions of the Earth programme and has not been updated. This listing does not constitute any endorsement by nor status with the UN Environment Programme.
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Young Champions of the Earth is a forward-looking prize designed to breathe life into the ambitions of brilliant young environmentalists.