Mardi Gras beads are a staple of Carnival season, but they’re not great for the environment. Alexis Strain and Lauren Rogers, two LSU researchers, have created PlantMe Beads, an eco-friendly alternative made from bio-based plastics and 3D printing. These innovative beads are embedded with seeds, allowing them to break down faster as plant roots attract bacteria that accelerate decomposition. Once thrown, these beads can sprout into plants, offering a sustainable twist to the celebration. ■ lsu.edu

This article was originally published in April 2025.