Two Thai students will represent Thailand at the Stockholm Junior Water Prize 2026 with a project designed to support watershed reforestation.
Natchaya Donpraik and Rinthida Buncloy from Wang Klai Kang Won School qualified for the international competition after winning the Thailand Junior Water Prize.
Their project, “Bio-Seed Balls to Enhance Water Absorption for Seed Germination and Survival in Watershed Reforestation,” uses materials including tapioca starch, coconut fibre, dried vetiver leaves and vermicompost.
Tests showed that the bio-seed balls absorbed more water and achieved higher germination rates than conventional seed balls. The students hope the low-cost innovation can make reforestation easier and more accessible to local communities.
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize brings together 39 winners from national competitions around the world. Their projects address water-related challenges through science and innovation. The annual award ceremony is a highlight of World Water Week, and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, the prize’s patron, will present the 2026 award.
The award ceremony will take place at Stockholm City Hall on 25 August. Members of the public can vote for the Thai project in the People’s Choice Award until 20 August.
Source: Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok and Stockholm Water Foundation
