LSU Develops Biodegradable Mardi Gras Beads

New Orleans parades to feature algae-based beads that dissolve naturally

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Researchers at Louisiana State University have created biodegradable Mardi Gras beads made from algae that will debut in New Orleans parades this year. The beads are designed to break down naturally within 12-24 months, helping reduce the plastic waste that typically piles up after the festivities.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans generate massive amounts of plastic bead waste that often ends up in landfills or clogs city drains. These new biodegradable beads offer a more sustainable alternative that can decompose naturally, helping to address the environmental impact of the annual event.

The details

The biodegradable beads are made by first growing algae in large tanks at LSU's Baton Rouge campus. The algae is then dried, ground into a powder, and used to create a green, dissolvable plastic. The beads are molded into shape and attached to hemp lines instead of traditional synthetic chains. While the initial cost of the biodegradable beads is around $5 per strand, much higher than regular plastic beads, the researchers hope that increased production will bring the price down to $2-$5 per strand.

  • The first 500 strands of biodegradable beads debuted in New Orleans parades in 2026.
  • The algae-based beads are designed to fully decompose within 12-24 months after being discarded.

The players

Naohiro Kato

A scholar at LSU's Department of Biological Sciences who invented the biodegradable Mardi Gras beads made from algae.

Missy Rogers

A graduate of LSU who runs Noble Plastics, the company producing the black beads with "MADE WITH ALGAE LSU" printed on them.

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What’s next

Over time, the biodegradable Mardi Gras beads might begin shaping how people experience the New Orleans parades, slowly building deeper meaning beyond just fun as the Krewe of Freret incorporates them into their throws.

The takeaway

These new algae-based, biodegradable Mardi Gras beads offer a more sustainable alternative to the typical plastic beads that have long been a staple of the New Orleans celebrations. By decomposing naturally, they can help reduce the environmental impact of the annual event and potentially inspire further innovations in eco-friendly Mardi Gras traditions.