Green innovations from the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) were recognized in the recent Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF) 2024 in Seoul, South Korea.
The Korea Invention Promotion Association conferred the silver award to DOST-FPRDI’s multi-functional school furniture, also called Silyang Pinoy, because of its technical excellence, business potential, design, and explanation of the invention.
Silyang Pinoy is a chair-table combination that can easily be transformed into a bed. This innovation is especially useful during calamities when public schools are converted into evacuation centers. This sustainable furniture is mainly produced using engineered bamboo and other raw materials.
Meanwhile, the Institute’s “Equipment System and Process for Treating Wastewater from Wet-Type Finishing Spray Booth” was recognized as the best international invention and innovation by the National Research Council of Thailand.
The equipment addresses the improper discharge of wastewater from finishing of furniture that usually contains toxic chemicals such as aromatics, benzene derivatives, alcohol, siloxanes, propanoic and pentanoic acid, which are harmful to aquatic plants and animals.
“This international recognition is a significant achievement for DOST-FPRDI. It only proves the capability of our innovators and researchers to win on the world stage, boosting the Institute’s reputation in scientific and technological advancements,” said DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.
Both technologies were presented by engineer Edward Paul S. Marasigan. DOST-FPRDI’s participation was made possible through the assistance of DOST-Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI).
Marasigan with Eileen S. Fernando (left) of DOST-TAPI’s Technology Information and Promotion Division, and DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena
SIIF 2024 is an international event that offers a platform for networking and collaboration, bringing together inventors, researchers, manufacturers, investors, and distributors from over 30 countries. (Story courtesy of Apple Jean C. Martin- de Leon/DOST-FPRDI)
(Top photo by Johannes Plenio/Pexels)