Cynthia Louisiana’s pilot site aims to revolutionize waterway management of water hyacinth
GIBSON, La., May 15, 2024 – Cynthia Louisiana LLC, a subsidiary of the Belgium-based In-Between-International corporation, announces the opening of its inaugural operational pilot site in Gibson.
This milestone marks a significant step forward in the battle against the water hyacinth, which clogs waterways. The operation is poised to revolutionize waterways management by transforming this invasive species into a game-changing new fiber, offering a sustainable solution to a global environmental challenge. The fiber will serve as raw material to manufacture such items as nursery pots for plants and cat litter.
For decades, water hyacinth has plagued freshwater ecosystems worldwide, ranking among the top 10 most invasive species with seemingly insurmountable eradication challenges. Traditional methods, including herbicide spraying, have yielded limited success, leaving authorities grappling with escalating costs and persistent infestations.
Cynthia Louisiana's innovative treatment unit represents a paradigm shift in weed control, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical interventions. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies, the facility will process water hyacinth into a versatile fiber, mitigating its environmental, and social impact while creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
"We are thrilled to unveil Cynthia Louisiana's first operational site, a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development," remarked Philippe Gustin, CEO of Cynthia Louisiana. "Our mission is not only to reclaim control of our waterways but also to empower communities and revitalize Louisiana's rich ecological heritage."
Cynthia Louisiana partnered with Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries, University of Louisiana Lafayette, and Terrebonne Economic Development Authority to develop and locate this operation in Gibson La. The Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program also recently announced its intention to fund research by Cynthia Louisiana to optimize production of biodegradable pots.
Rebeka Bahadorani, founder of the project, who undertook the mission to tackle the problem in 2010, added, "This journey began with a vision to address a pressing environmental challenge. Today, we stand at the forefront of innovation, leading the charge in transforming water hyacinth from a nuisance to a valuable resource."
“It has been a true pleasure working with the project Cynthia team since the inception of this venture,” said TEDA CEO Cohen B. Guidry. “The waterways of Terrebonne parish will benefit greatly from this concept. As we turn toward a more natural way of clearing our waterways of this nuisance, we are helping our environment, creating jobs and benefiting the local economy. We look forward to a long relationship with this company and the expansion of its operations to waterways across the parish and the state.”
With this groundbreaking solution, Cynthia Louisiana is leading the path for the rest of the world toward a successful resolution to the water hyacinth crisis. By showcasing the efficacy of this innovative approach, this project aims to inspire global action and collaboration in the fight against invasive species.
The launch of Cynthia Louisiana's treatment unit signals a new era for Louisiana's water management, promising to restore the region's freshwater ecosystems. Through innovation and collaboration, Cynthia Louisiana aims to turn the tide on invasive species and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
Philippe GUSTIN
Lafayette, Louisiana
Phone: (1) 337 296 7770
E-mail : pgustin7770@gmail.com