Reckitt Benckiser air pollution challenge yields promising new solutions

Reckitt Benckiser and Lions Health have highlighted the encouraging results of an innovation challenge aimed at identifying sustainable solutions to tackle global air pollution.

The RB and Lions Health Innovation Hack, conducted in partnership with Save the Children, took place as part of the International Festival of Creativity in Cannes, with the goal of finding new ways to protect children's lungs in India.

Three teams, consisting of Reckitt Benckiser research and marketing talent plus leading external creatives, were given 24 hours to develop product concepts, devise marketing launch plans and consider how their innovations could be rolled out internationally.

Winning concepts included an air-purifying baby pacifier, a lung-strengthening musical toy and pollution-trapping paint. The company has committed to examining the shortlisted ideas to determine if they may have the potential for commercial development.

Dr Sharon James, senior vice-president for research and development at Reckitt Benckiser, said: "We are inspired by a purpose to deliver innovative solutions for healthier lives and happier homes across the globe, and these ideas could help make this a reality."