Same Tradition. Less Impact.
Throwing and catching colorful beads is a cherished Mardi Gras tradition—but it comes with a hidden environmental cost that can last for decades after the celebrations end. Naohiro Kato, a researcher and professor in LSU’s Department of Biological Sciences, is developing beads made from microscopic algae that decompose in months instead of decades.
The Science of PlantMe Beads
From Microalgae to Mardi Gras: Sustainable Beads that Grow into Flowers
The Kato Research Group developed an innovative, circular biotechnology process that converts microalgal cultures into valuable carotenoids and biodegradable plastics, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional Mardi Gras beads. In 2025, the group introduced PlantMe Beads, biodegradable, seed-containing beads that sprout into flowers and naturally break down in soil, promoting science and sustainability during Mardi Gras.
“ Like any new technology, our beads represent the future. ”
In the News
Mardi Gras Starts Here.
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