The Philippines is home to 347 million coconut trees, yielding 14 million tons of fruit yearly, yet tons of fibrous husks are often burned or left to rot in farms. Kenno Michael Uy, CEO of Lesstics, Inc., saw this waste not just as pollution, but as a health risk for farming communities.
While visiting Lanao Del Norte, Uy noticed stockpiles of discarded coconut husks—locally called bunot—which became breeding grounds for mosquitoes and rats. This inspired him to turn a rural problem into an innovative product, leading to the development of the Coir-reinforced Bio-based High-Density Polyurethane Composite, now branded as Earth Board.
Earth Board uses the fiber from waste coconut husks combined with a plant-based binder to create a durable, low-emission board. It emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), reducing air pollution and health risks in construction and manufacturing environments.
Coconut husks once considered waste are now the core material for Lesstics Inc.’s Earth Board.
With strong insulation and moisture resistance, Earth Board offers long-term performance even in humid tropical conditions. It’s already being promoted as a sustainable alternative to plywood and synthetic boards for construction and furniture manufacturing.
Uy explained that Earth Board has passed key performance and safety tests, demonstrating its durability, structural strength, and eco-friendly design. The product received a Silver Award at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (IEIG), a recognition of its innovation and impact.
The mission behind Earth Board aligns with Uy’s broader goals through Lesstics, Inc., his startup that focuses on sustainability-driven technologies. The company previously introduced eco-roofing tiles made from single-use plastics and a no-rinse coconut-based hand wash.
Collaborating with innovators like Amierson Tilendo, Uy saw the potential to convert agricultural waste into value-added materials. Their invention supports the development of a circular economy, reducing rural pollution while creating income opportunities for farmers.
Having grown up familiar with the struggles of coconut farmers, Uy is committed to ensuring that Earth Board generates meaningful livelihood. His company partnered with the Department of Science and Technology’s Expanded Venture Financing Program, which provided seed capital for market launch.
Now, Lesstics, Inc. is scaling up production and exploring funding through investors, grants, and innovation contests. Uy said they are also building supply chains and local-international distribution networks to bring the Earth Board to more communities and markets.
Through smart use of local resources and strong eco-innovation, Lesstics, Inc. is paving the way for a more sustainable future, one coconut husk at a time.
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