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ABSTRACT

BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC BASED ON BANANA PEELS

This project focuses on creating biodegradable plastic using banana peels, beeswax, white vinegar, and glycerin as a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic, which is known for causing serious environmental pollution due to its long decomposition time. Regular plastic is made from petroleum-based materials, which are non-renewable and can take hundreds of years to break down, leading to pollution in landfills, oceans, and natural habitats. In contrast, the biodegradable plastic developed in this project is made from banana peels, a common kitchen waste item that is usually thrown away. Banana peels contain natural starch and cellulose, which help form a strong yet flexible base for the plastic. To improve the texture and durability of the product, beeswax is added, which provides water resistance and a smoother finish. White vinegar is used to help in the chemical process, allowing the ingredients to blend well and creating a more consistent mixture. Glycerin is included to make the final plastic product flexible and less brittle, so it can be bent or shaped without breaking easily. The process of making this plastic involves boiling and blending the banana peels into a smooth paste, then mixing in the beeswax, vinegar, and glycerin before spreading the mixture into a mold or flat surface to dry. Once dried, the result is a plastic-like sheet that can be used for various applications such as packaging, bags, or small containers. One of the main benefits of this product is its ability to decompose naturally in the environment, making it a much safer option for the planet compared to conventional plastics. Depending on environmental conditions, it can break down in just a few weeks or months, reducing the amount of long-lasting waste in nature. Another advantage is that all the ingredients are natural, non-toxic, and easy to find, making the production process low-cost and accessible, especially for schools, small businesses, or communities looking to reduce their plastic use. It also adds value to agricultural waste, showing how discarded materials can be turned into useful products. While the biodegradable plastic may not yet be as strong or heat-resistant as regular plastic, it still performs well for many everyday uses, especially for items meant to be used once and then thrown away. With further testing and improvements, such as adjusting ingredient amounts or experimenting with drying methods, the strength and durability can be enhanced. Overall, this biodegradable plastic is a great example of sustainable innovation. It helps reduce plastic pollution, encourages recycling of organic waste, and promotes a greener lifestyle. By choosing materials that are already considered waste, like banana peels, and turning them into something useful, we can help protect the environment while also teaching others about the importance of sustainability. This project shows that small changes and creative thinking can lead to big solutions for global problems, making it a meaningful step toward a cleaner, healthier future.