Seshadri Ramkumar, a Professor at Texas Tech University, emphasizes the importance of engaging with customers, the community, and the next generation to promote sustainability and new values. At the 6th annual Engaged Scholarship Symposium on April 17, 2024, cotton sustainability and advanced applications were showcased using a mobile laboratory called “Lab in a Bag.”
I had the chance to share our research on cotton with High Plains producers at a symposium on national defense, human health, and environmental protection. The focus was on finding new uses for cotton, creating plastic alternatives, and exploring its potential in defense and industry. The event showcased different engagement techniques like using theatre plays and visuals to simulate scenarios.
During a presentation, audience members from the education sector asked about sustainability practices in the cotton industry. Demonstrations showcasing the oil absorption capabilities of raw cotton through projects like “Lab in a Bag” highlighted the scientific mechanisms behind sustainable products.
People are recognizing the issue of microplastic pollution and the cotton industry needs to promote the positive aspects of cotton, like biodegradability and supporting farmers in developing countries. Collaborating with artists and musicians can help spread accurate information about cotton and other natural products.
