MSc Carbon Management (online learning) student, Sandra Namboozo, and partner Samuel Muyita have been listed as finalists for the European Patent Office's Young Inventors Prize 2025. They have developed an eco-friendly product, Karpolax, to extend the shelf life of fruits. Their biodegradable sachets are added to fruit boxes during storage and transport, where they release a blend of plant-based volatile organic compounds. These compounds work together to inhibit ethylene production, slowing down the ripening process. By extending the shelf life of fruits, this helps smallholder farmers and retailers cut waste and boost profits, while making fresh produce more widely available.To learn more about Sandra and Samuel's development of Karpolax, and to vote for them in the People's Choice category, see below:Sandra Namboozo and Samuel Muyita (Karpolax) Publication date 23 May, 2025
