Larissa Valisoaniaretana

IRD | SEBIO

Co-founder & Scientific Lead

Biography

Larissa VALISOANIARETANA is a Malagasy chemist, PhD student at the University of Antananarivo, with the Doctoral School of Renewable Resources Valorisation (VRNR) and co-founder and Scientific Lead of SEBIO startup, a social and environmental innovation initiative eco-designed menstrual hygiene products using locally souced natural fibers. Her research focus on the physicochemistries of complex fibrous materials and the development of biodgradable absorbent mateials from Malagasy plant resources, including banana fiber, cyperus madagascriensis (called zozoro) with cassava cellulose. Combing scientific research with experience, se is commited to addressing menstrual dignity challenges through sustainaible innovation and the valorisation of local natural resources. Though SEBIO, she aims to improve menstrual safety and comfort for women nd girl by deveoping more sustainable hygiene solutins, while promoting local value chains and women's empowerment in Madaga