easy, low-cost method of purifying freshwater by substituting active carbon with biochar. Her idea would improve the efficiency and lower the cost of water filters. Jha, a student at Lynbrook High School in San José, California, has discovered a more easy and low-cost technique to clean freshwater by substituting biochar in place of active carbon. Water filters will become more effective and less expensive as a result of this.
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize is awarded to the 15 to 20 age group winner in which they must solve serious water problems. The World Food Prize was previously awarded to Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted, a Trinidadian with ties to India. Jha expressed pride over winning the prize. She said, “I am honored to receive this prize, particularly with so many excellent contributions from around the world. I hope we can make a better water world. We really are the future of water-related science.”
Her innovation focussed on specific types of contaminants including pesticides, emerging pollutants, and heavy metals. She improved the biochar’s capacity to absorb these pollutants, resulting in a super sponge. According to the jury, water pollutants are increasing globally. It said, “Around the world, new water contaminants are being discovered and increasing concentrations of existing pollutants are being recorded.” The prize was established in 1997 by the Stockholm International Water Institute, SIWI, along with Xylem as a founding partner. This year’s award ceremony was held entirely virtual.
