Student duo marks MU’s debut at 5th SDG Asia Conference 2026 with climate-tech startup, “BottleNext”
Article by: Alexa Juliana E. Karaan
Marking a historic first for Mapúa University (MU), two student innovators showcased their sustainability-driven enterprise, “BottleNext,” through the Sustainability Solutions Exchange platform. The initiative was among the 12 exhibitors representing the Philippines during the 5th Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Asia 2026 event, held at the Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1 that took place from August 27 to 29 in Taipei, Taiwan.
Developed to address environmental degradation, MU students, Boaz Drexel S. Balmonte, second-year Industrial Engineering student, along with fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student, Patrick Santiago B. Rogers presented, “BottleNext,” under a joint technological venture of MU’s Think and Tinker Laboratory and 3D printing company, DEMAF 3D Printing & Fabrications.
“BottleNext” is a climate-sustainable startup that manufactures recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) into low-cost and customizable Disaster Risk Reduction Response kits made through community-based circular manufacturing. The made enterprise directly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action).
Unlike centralized manufacturing models, the venture employs a decentralized, community-based circular manufacturing model. Through this operational process, it turns post-consumer plastic waste into high-grade emergency gear. Specifically tailoring to institutions, industries, and government agencies to fortify disaster readiness while simultaneously promoting a circular economy.
Photo from: SDG Asia 2026 Digital Directory
The start-up also offers a comprehensive range of products at the conference, including localized rPET manufacturing solutions, plastic upcycling services, and specialized disaster-preparedness products for rapid deployment during climate-induced emergencies.
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