Rationale
Plastic waste has become a major environmental issue due to its long
decomposition period and its prevalence in landfills, waterways, and oceans.
The increasing demand for sustainable materials has led to the exploration of
alternatives to conventional plastics, particularly in the production of bags.
Banana fiber, a natural and biodegradable material derived from banana
plants, presents a potential option for eco-friendly bag production. This study
seeks to evaluate the feasibility of using banana fiber as a sustainable
material for this purpose.
Nature of the Study
This research examines the feasibility of banana fiber as a material for
producing eco-friendly bags. It evaluates the material’s physical and
mechanical properties, such as durability, flexibility, and biodegradability,
and compares it to commonly used materials like cotton, jute, and synthetic
alternatives. The study also assesses the availability of banana fiber as a
byproduct of banana cultivation, its potential for large-scale production, and
its economic implications. By focusing on banana fiber, this research
contributes to identifying innovative and sustainable uses for agricultural
waste.
Local Relevance
In areas where banana farming is a significant agricultural activity, such as
the Philippines, India, and other tropical regions, large amounts of banana
plant waste are generated annually. Typically, this waste is left to decompose
or is disposed of through burning, which may contribute to environmental
challenges. Utilizing banana fiber for bag production could help address this
issue by converting agricultural byproducts into useful materials. Moreover,
developing banana fiber-based products could create economic opportunities
for local communities, particularly in rural areas, while supporting waste
management initiatives.
National Relevance
At the national level, the adoption of sustainable materials like banana fiber
aligns with efforts to reduce plastic consumption and promote
environmentally friendly practices. For example, in the Philippines, the
Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (Republic Act 9003) encourages
waste reduction and the use of biodegradable alternatives. Exploring banana
fiber as a material for eco-friendly bags could provide a solution to meet
these legislative requirements while reducing dependence on imported
materials. Additionally, the potential for establishing a banana fiber-based
industry could contribute to job creation and economic growth in the
agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
https://www.studocu.com/ph/n/53728246?sid=01738074021
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10098-021-02041-y
https://typeset.io/papers/development-of-banana-nonwoven-fabric-for-eco-
friendly-2p35a0vc2j
https://pdfcoffee.com/banana-pseudo-stem-as-an-eco-friendly-paper-bag-pdf-
free.html
https://www.academia.edu/45009440/
Banana_fibre_A_potential_source_of_sustainable_textiles
https://www.eco-business.com/press-releases/dole-sunshine-company-turns-
banana-waste-into-fibres-of-purpose-with-musa-fabric-2
