The BrainLift explores the issues around athletic wear, focusing on microplastics, environmental impacts, and the misleading sustainability claims of many popular brands. Through in-depth self-directed research, the journey covers the role of synthetic clothing in microplastic pollution, how these particles affect human health, particularly reproductive systems, and highlights both leading experts and practical alternatives. The investigation is enriched by personal experiments with content strategy (e.g., social videos) and actionable recommendations to reduce plastic exposure through clothing choices.
Emma Cotner is a student at the Austin campus, graduating in 2028. She is passionate about wellness, environmental health, and audience building. As a team captain for her volleyball club and an avid content creator, Emma is channeling her interests into launching a plastic-free athletic clothing brand that promotes a healthier lifestyle for both people and the planet.
To build and scale a non-toxic, plastic-free athletic clothing brand, aiming to make a positive impact on health and the environment, and to grow a large audience through social media and content creation.
Follow Emma Cotner's journey and connect on social media to stay updated on the latest developments of this project.
Want to collaborate with Emma Cotner?
Send an emailTo create and promote athletic clothing that is free from microplastics and toxic materials, supporting both personal health and environmental sustainability.
Health-conscious individuals, athletes, and environmentally aware consumers seeking sustainable and non-toxic athletic wear.
A non-toxic, plastic-free athletic clothing brand focused on wellness and sustainability, aiming to provide healthier alternatives to conventional athletic wear while building a strong online community. This project represents months of dedicated research, development, and implementation, resulting in a solution that addresses real-world challenges and creates meaningful impact.
"I am revolutionizing the workout clothing industry by launching the first price-accessible, plastic-free workout line, protecting 1 million people from endocrine disruption and disease caused by harmful plastics in today’s clothing."
The long-term vision is to establish a leading brand in the sustainable athletic wear market, raising awareness about the dangers of microplastics in clothing, and inspiring a shift in consumer habits toward healthier, more environmentally friendly choices. The project aims to foster a community around wellness and sustainability, ultimately contributing to a reduction in plastic pollution and promoting healthier lifestyles worldwide.
TikTok followers gained in first week
Expert meetings scheduled
Emma engaged in self-reflection exercises and time-tracking worksheets to identify her interests and strengths, ultimately discovering a passion for wellness, environmental health, and audience building. She explored the intersection of what she enjoys, what she's good at, and what the world needs, which led her to the idea of a plastic-free athletic clothing brand.
