In recent years, environmental concerns have come to the forefront of many industries. Such concerns arose for 14-year-old Benjamin Stern when he watched a documentary about the plastic-bottling industry and its effects on the environment. Stern saw that a great deal of the plastic used in bathroom products is not recycled and rather thrown into the garbage – a great ecological cost when the nonbiodegradable plastic finds its way to a landfill.
Stern began brainstorming ways to solve the issue of wasted plastic as it pertained to shampoos, conditioners, and other bathroom products. Combining this problem with the existence of soluble detergent pods, Benjamin had his solution. Within two years, Stern had developed a prototype for water-soluble pods containing shampoos and soaps, thus eliminating the need for plastic bottles in the bathroom. Seeing the simple, yet revolutionary nature of his idea inspired Stern to take it further. Personally calling cleaning companies such as Clorox with the desire for partnership did not produce fruit, but Stern did not give up. At age 16, Benjamin pitched his bath product company,Nohbo, on NBC’s Shark Tank, eventually closing a deal with Mark Cuban.
With the help of Cuban’s funds and mentorship, Stern was able to grow his company into a profitable, self-sustaining business. He cites his patience for his ideas to be fully realized as a major factor in his achievements. Stern waited for his solution to be well-developed before continuing and it afforded Nohbo a great deal of success.
I think this is a great idea. The amount of plastic that isn’t recycled is outstanding and definitely raises environmental concerns. Although this idea doesn’t completely get rid of this issue, it sure helps. People go through hundreds of plastic bathroom materials each year so if this product is successful, it will no doubt help this problem. In addition, I think people will love the idea. Almost everyone wants to be environmental friendly so people will no doubt be interested in the idea. With the help of mark Cuban the places he could go with this are endless!
A great innovation in a time where the damage humans have done to the earth is beginning to show. Great to see such a young guy at the forefront.
This is a brilliant idea! Not only does it save the environment, but it also minimize the waste of using too much shampoo by spilling it in the process of using it. I think there is a great market for this, especially if he partners up with brands like Lush who are huge proponents of natural makeup products and keeping the environment clean.