Dr Monet Concepcion Detras

Dr Monet Concepcion M. Detras is a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of the Philippines Los Banos, with over 20 years of experience in teaching and research. Her research focuses on biomass conversion, particularly biochar production from agricultural residues and its applications. One of her most notable projects from 2009 focused on developing an electrodeposition system to recover heavy metals from gold smelting effluent, which was adopted by a small-scale industry. This subsequently inspired Dr Detras' current work on sustainable waste technologies that directly impact target communities. Her efforts have earned her several awards, including the UP Scientist title, and UPLB Professorial Chair Awards.

Her innovation centres on the extraction of phytohormones (plant hormones) from waste coconut water, using biochar derived from various agricultural residues. Phytohormones are essential compounds that regulate plant growth and development, including their defensive responses to environmental stressors. They play a critical role in plant propagation, tissue culture, and overall plant health, ensuring robust root growth, flowering, and fruit development. Despite their importance, the Philippines currently imports synthetic plant growth regulators (PGRs) - by utilising waste coconut water and biochar from agricultural residues, this reliance on imported synthetic PGRs is reduced, addressing environmental pollution while reducing its associated costs.