The PolyNext Awards 2025, one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global plastics industry, concluded successfully in Dubai on October 1–2, 2025, under the aegis of Next Business Media. Celebrating innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the plastics sector, the awards brought together industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and sustainability champions from across the globe. Among the stellar lineup of winners, Yelena Kann, PhD, President and Chief Technical Officer of Carbon Nurture, was recognized in the Excellence in Plastic Industry – Leaders – Innovator in Biodegradable Polymer Science subcategory.
The PolyNext Awards are designed to honour individuals and companies that drive innovation, sustainability, and responsible growth in the plastics sector. Over the past decade, these awards have become a benchmark for excellence, highlighting visionaries who push the boundaries of scientific innovation and environmental stewardship.
Carbon Nurture: Revolutionizing Sustainable Agriculture through Biodegradable Plastics
Carbon Nurture, based in the United States, develops cutting-edge biodegradable mulch films for agriculture. The company’s products perform like traditional plastic films but fully biodegrade in soil within 4–6 months, leaving no microplastics or landfill waste. These films are compliant with ASTM D6954 and EN17033 standards, free of heavy metals, support soil health, and improve crop yields. Carbon Nurture proudly serves commercial farms, research institutions, and sustainable agriculture innovators across the U.S.
Dr. Yelena Kann: A Visionary Leader in Biodegradable Polymer Science
Dr. Kann’s professional journey spans 28+ years in polymer science, plastics stabilization, and sustainable materials. She holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Sussex, has published over 30 papers, holds more than 50 global patents, and serves as Vice-Chair of ASTM’s biodegradable plastics committee. She has worked with industry leaders including Metabolix, EInk, and Sabic and has founded two startups focused on recycling and plastic pollution.
Commenting on the award, Dr. Kann said, “We are honoured to receive the PolyNext Award for Innovation in Biodegradable Polymer Science. This recognition reflects the hard work of our dedicated team at Carbon Nurture and our commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture.”
PolyNext Awards 2025: Recognizing Leadership and Innovation
The PolyNext Awards 2025 brought together global leaders in the plastics, polymers, and sustainable materials industries. The awards ceremony recognized companies and individuals demonstrating exceptional achievements in innovation, sustainability, and industrial leadership.
The awards are curated by industry experts who assess entries based on innovation, sustainability impact, market relevance, scalability, and long-term contribution to the plastics sector. Winners like Dr. Yelena Kann exemplify the intersection of scientific expertise, practical innovation, and environmental responsibility.
Global Impact and Future Vision
By developing biodegradable polymer solutions that are practical, effective, and environmentally responsible, Dr. Yelena Kann and Carbon Nurture are setting new benchmarks for sustainable agriculture. Their work demonstrates how science-driven innovation can address real-world challenges while supporting long-term environmental stewardship.
Dr. Kann’s vision for the coming years focuses on expanding the adoption of biodegradable materials across commercial agriculture, research initiatives, and industrial applications. By leveraging expertise, policy engagement, and scientific research, Carbon Nurture aims to redefine how plastics contribute to a sustainable future.
About Carbon Nurture
Carbon Nurture develops innovative biodegradable mulch films that allow farmers to save time, reduce costs, and support long-term soil health. Its products perform like traditional plastics but fully biodegrade within 4–6 months, leaving no microplastics or landfill waste. The company serves commercial farms, research institutions, and agricultural innovators across the U.S., delivering science-based, sustainable solutions for modern farming.
About Dr. Yelena Kann
Dr. Yelena Kann is a globally recognized polymer scientist with 28+ years of experience in plastics stabilization, biodegradation, and sustainable materials. As President and Chief Technical Officer of Carbon Nurture, she leads the development of innovative biodegradable polymer solutions. She has published 30+ papers, holds 50+ global patents, and serves as Vice-Chair of ASTM’s biodegradable plastics committee.
Conclusion
The recognition of Dr. Yelena Kann at the PolyNext Awards 2025 highlights the power of leadership, innovation, and science-driven solutions in shaping a sustainable future. Her work sets a benchmark for excellence in biodegradable polymer science and sustainable agriculture, inspiring the global plastics industry to innovate responsibly.
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