Young engineers in Bristol make it to final of green contest

Monica Wai (left) and Kira Goode (right) have invented a case which makes the menstrual cup sterilisation process quicker

A teenager's invention has made it to the final of a competition looking for sustainable engineering ideas.

Anvith Sujay, 16, from Bristol, has created a customisable vertical farming unit for gardens.

He is one of four people, including Kira Goode and Monica Wai, also from Bristol, in the running to win the Royal Academy of Engineering contest.

The winners will be announced on 4 November by Dragons' Den investor Deborah Meaden.

Anvith's Ecoponics invention allows more plants to be grown in one area, without the need for fertilisers.

Ms Goode and Ms Wai, who are both 24-years-old, have invented a case which makes the menstrual cup sterilisation process quicker and more discreet.

And Sam Bird Smith, a 23-year-old from London, invented Phyto, a hanging pendant light made from 3D printed algae-based bioplastic.

A live vote on social media on Wednesday will decide the winning entry for the everyday engineer prize, with Meaden announcing the winner on her social channels at the end of the day.

The case makes the menstrual cup sterilisation process quicker and more discreet

Dr Hayaatun Sillem, chief executive of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: "It's been brilliant to see such creative and original ideas for sustainable inventions and to have discovered our three every-day engineer finalists.

"There has never been a more urgent need for engineering expertise to provide practical solutions and help to build a sustainable future.

Meaden added: "Sustainable inventions and the businesses that come out of them will be the key to meeting the UK's net zero goals and tackling climate change.

"These finalists showcase that everyone has the capability to think like an engineer and create something that positively impacts both people and planet."

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