Using Environmental Biotechnology to Improve Waterways in Jalisco, Mexico
Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Danielle Orozco-Nunnelly
Discipline(s)
Biology, Ecology
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-25-2024
Abstract
BIO-290 allows students to explore environmental biotechnology at the Tecnológico de Monterrey Campus in Guadalajara. There are multiple sources of xenobiotics within the food industry in Mexico, notably tequila vinasses and animal waste. Tequila vinasses are mixtures of organic compounds disposed of in the tequila distillation process, and often these high-nutrient compounds end up in local waterways. Similarly, animal waste on farms is produced at an extremely high rate and runs off into rivers and streams. This results in eutrophication which prevents oxygen from getting below the surface of the water, thus damaging the ecosystem. In collaboration with Dr. Gradilla Hernandez’s lab, we performed experiments to use vinasse as fertilizer for agave or as biofuel. We watered agave in Tequila, Jalisco with different volumes of water or vinasse to determine if there was a growth difference in the plants. We also used a flocculant to reduce the turbidity of wastewater in order to use it as a laboratory growth media. Utilizing the xenobiotics in this way will help create a circular economy and reduce waste in the waterways. Aside from the environmental biotechnology research, we participated in various cultural experiences to learn more about Mexico and the importance of our research there.
Recommended Citation
Bhakta, Hannah; Plachta, Aimee; Wrobleski, Sophia; and Orozco-Nunnelly, Danielle, "Using Environmental Biotechnology to Improve Waterways in Jalisco, Mexico" (2024). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1229.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1229
