Invested in a Sustainable Path
Biosystems Engineering Student Mark Jendrisak ’19, discovered his interest in wastewater
management while earning his bachelor’s degree. “When I chose engineering, I realized we
could integrate a solution into reducing or reusing wastes,” he stated. Thanks to scholarships,
two jobs, and career advice Jendrisak was inspired to pursue a master’s degree in biosystems
engineering without accumulating debt - and has been successful throughout his first year.
Currently, Jendrisak is working on his thesis project with assistant professor of practice in
biosystems engineering, Dr. Akrum Tamimi, to reduce the quantity of meat waste going to landfills.
Partnering with Sunstate Environmental Services and the University of Arizona, Tamimi aims to
develop low-cost technology that can reduce waste by 89% and potentially have commercial
application. Jendrisak is working to modify a machine that reduces meat waste volume by
shredding and drying it. Water from this process can be used for irrigation after it is treated.
Both Tamimi and Jendrisak are excited about the prospect of turning waste into a sustainable
agricultural product.
To read the full story written by Katy Smith, please click here.