Environmental and Economic Benefits of Using Banana Body Tree for

Paper Production: A Sustainable Alternative

Chapter I

Introduction

The paper industry's heavy reliance on wood pulp has caused a lot of

deforestation and damaged the environment. This unsustainable way of doing

things has led to a worldwide search for new materials to make paper that can

meet the growing need for paper while being better for the environment. In the

research of (Kumar and Singh 2017), along with other researcher (Smith et al.

2022), have pointed out the need for more sustainable ways to make paper to

deal with the environmental problems caused by traditional papermaking.

There are studies that looked into using materials other than wood, like

bamboo, hemp, and leftover parts of crops. But the banana body tree, which is

often thrown away as waste, is a very promising and easily available source of

material for making paper.

The banana body tree, a plant that grows quickly and lives for many

years, provides a renewable and plentiful source of fibers. Its main stem,

usually thrown away after the fruit is harvested, has a lot of cellulose, which is a

key ingredient in making paper. The fibers can be taken out of the stem by

hand or by machine. Once the fibers are separated, they can be processed to
make different kinds of paper products, like wrapping paper, tissue paper, and

even sanitary napkins. This research looks into the possibility of using the

banana body tree (banana stem) as a sustainable alternative to traditional

paper made from wood. It focuses on the environmental and economic benefits

of using this underused resource. The study explores how using the banana

body tree could help meet the increasing need for paper while reducing the

environmental damage caused by deforestation and using up resources.

This research shows and emphasize the positive impact of using banana

body tree (banana stem) instead of wood in both environment and economy. In

the environment this will reduce deforestation and reduce waste since banana

stem are no longer thrown away and wasted but used. In economy, for farmers

now will have new ways to make money, creating jobs, lowering production

costs, and increasing the demand for products that are good for the

environment.

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating the

feasibility of utilizing banana tree fiber as a sustainable to wood pulp in paper

production.

1. What will be the quality of product using banana fiber in terms of:

A. Texture
B. Strength

C. Durability

D. Aesthetics

2. What will be the quality of product using traditional method (wood paper

production) in terms of:

A. Texture

B. Strength

C. Durability

D. Aesthetics

3. What will be the difference between banana body stem fiber and wood in

production of paper and sustainability?

Hypothesis

Alternative Hypothesis (H1): In terms of looking for and focusing on creating

new product both bananas stem and wood doesn't have any significant

difference.

Null Hypothesis (H0): In focusing of the quality in terms of the texture strength

and aesthetics, there is a significant difference.

Significance of the study

This research aims to use banana stem to make paper, since there are a

lot of benefits that banana stem fibers can assess in both economic and

environmental aspect. Farmers and agricultural community stand for benefit

greatly, as the research could create new income stems by market

establishment for banana tree comma which are often considered waste. This

could particularly benefit small-scale farmers in developing countries where

banana cultivation is prevalent, promoting sustainable farming practices and

reducing waste.

The paper in the tree and manufacturer could also benefit from this

research by gaining access to new source of sustainable raw materials,

reducing their resilience on traditional paper-making trees and mitigating

deforestation. However, banana tree fiber has a potential for paper.

Scope of Limitation

This research focuses on the potential of utilizing banana body three

fiber as a sustainable alternative to wood pulp in paper production in the

Municipality of Titay in the province of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay (2024-2025).

Conceptual Framework

Durability

Strength

Banana Fiber Process

Vs. Wood
Aesthetics

Texture
Figure 1.

Figure 1. This Figure emphasizes the benefits that we can get from banana tree

fiber in making paper in both economically and environment.

Definition of terms

Banana Body Tree Fiber: refers to the fibrous material extracted from the stem

and pseudo stem of the banana tree. After the fruit has been harvested. This

material is often considered waste product, but it has potential as a sustainable

alternative to wood pulp in paper production.

Economic Viability: refers to the financial feasibility of using banana body tree

fiber in paper production. Encompasses factor like production cost market

demand, & stage, and including helping bleaching and paper making.

Harvesting and Processing method: refers to the techniques used to extract

banana body three fiber from the plant and prepare it for use in paper

production. Efficiency and Sustainable harvesting and processing method are

crucial for the success of this approach.

 CHAPTER II

Review of Related Literature

The growing demand for paper, coupled with concerns about

deforestation, has spurred research into alternative fiber sources, Banana tree

fibers, readily available as agricultural waste, have emerged as a promising

alternative for paper production. Research by (Sathasivam et al. 2021)

highlights the potential of banana fibers for diverse applications, including bio-

composindly demonstrating their ability to reduce reliance on wood-based

paper and promote eco-friendly practices. (Ferdous et al., 2021) and (Motaleb

et al., 2020) further support this notion by showcasing the potential of banana

trunk fibers for creating green composites and bio-based films and nanopapers,

highlighting their versatile nature.

In the research by (Kavitha & Aparna, 2021) and (Thandavamooorthy et

al., 2023) delve into the properties and potential of banana fibers, particularly

focusing on their antimicrobial function and crystalline structure. These studies

suggest that banana fibers can be used to create sustainable and functional
materials, potentially enhancing the quality and performance of recycled paper.

(Ferdous et al., 2021) and (Melesse & Bedru, 2022) explore the pulping and

bleaching potential of different parts of the banana plant, and highlight the

potential of banana fibers for paper production, indicating the feasibility of

processing banana fibers for paper production. (Silva et al., 2021) explores the

use of banana tree fibers for producing activated carbon fibers, demonstrating

their potential for various applications, including water treatment and

environmental remediation.

The research reviewed indicates that utilizing banana tree fibers for

paper production offers significant environmental and economic benefits. By

leveraging the readily available and sustainable nature of this resource, the

paper industry can minimize its reliance on wood-based materials, reduce

deforestation, and create new opportunities for utilizing agricultural waste.

(Motaleb et al., 2020) and (Balda et al., 2021) emphasize the eco-friendly and

sustainable aspects of banana fibers, showcasing their potential for various

industries. (Akatwijuka et al. 2024) further highlights the biomass potential and

sustainable applications of banana fibers, while (Abdelkhalek et al., 2022)

demonstrates their potential for environmental remediation. Further research is

needed to optimize the processing of banana fibers, explore their potential for

specific paper types, and evaluate their long-term environmental and economic

impacts. However, the findings of these studies suggest that banana fibers hold

significant promise for developing sustainable and innovative solutions in the

paper industry.
 Chapter lll

Introduction

This chapter delves into the research design and methodology employed

to investigate the environmental and economic benefits of utilizing banana body

trees for paper production. This study aims to contribute to the growing body of

knowledge on sustainable alternatives to traditional papermaking practices,

ultimately promoting a more environmentally conscious approach to paper

production. The research seeks to address the pressing need for sustainable

solutions in the paper industry, which has historically relied on unsustainable

practices that contribute to deforestation and environmental degradation.

By exploring the potential of banana body trees as a renewable and

readily available resource, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis

of its feasibility and viability as a sustainable alternative. The research will delve
into the physical and chemical properties of banana body fibers in relation to

paper production, comparing its performance to conventional papermaking

materials. Additionally, the study will analyze the environmental and economic

impacts of utilizing banana body trees for paper production, considering factors

such as resource consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, cost-effectiveness,

and potential social and economic benefits for local communities.

The findings of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of

the potential of banana body trees as a sustainable resource for paper

production, providing valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders,

and researchers working towards a more sustainable future for the paper

industry.

Research Design

The research design adopted for this study is a combination of

experimental and comparative research approaches. This approach will allow for a

comprehensive analysis of the potential of banana body trees as a sustainable

resource for paper production.

In Experimental Testing this can be done through thorough research and

conducting laboratory tests to assess the physical and chemical properties of paper

produced from banana body fibers. These tests will be compared to the properties of
paper made from conventional sources, such as wood pulp, to determine the efficacy

and potential of banana body tree fiber for paper production.

In comparative analysis, analyzing is a must in both environmental and

economic impacts of utilizing banana body trees for paper production in comparison to

traditional papermaking practices. This analysis will consider factors such as resource

consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, cost-effectiveness, and potential social and

economic impacts on communities involved in the production process.

Population and Sample

The population for this research will encompass all banana trees within

the Municipality of Titay. The sample, however, will be restricted to banana

trees that are no longer bearing fruit. This specific selection focuses on banana

trees that are often deemed “useless” after they cease to produce fruit. It is

precisely this perceived uselessness that highlights the importance of this

research, aiming to explore potential applications and value for these

seemingly discarded trees.

Instrumentation

The table below serves as a valuable tool for documenting and

analyzing the results of a paper testing experiment. The specific instruments

 and methods used for each test would will be helpful to understand and get

the research objectives.

Data Collection Procedures

[Link] of Banana Stems:

• Identify and select “useless” banana trees (those that have stopped producing

fruit) to obtain banana stems.

2. Stem Cleaning:

• Thoroughly clean the collected stems to remove dirt, debris, and any

remaining fruit.

3. Stem Cutting:

• Cut the stems into manageable lengths to prepare them for processing.
4. Boiling Process:

• Boil the prepared stems in a water-based solution containing sodium

hydroxide (NaOH) for 45 minutes.

5. Stem Removal and Straining:

• Carefully remove the softened stems from the boiling solution.

• Place the stems into a fine strainer (similar in size to a standard bond paper).

[Link] Process:

• Allow the strainer containing the fibers to dry completely.

7. Stem Texture and Appearance Observation:

• Record any changes in the texture and appearance of the stems during the

boiling process.

8. Chemical Solution Effectiveness Assessment:

• Document how well the sodium hydroxide solution softened the fibers.

9. Paper Quality Evaluation:

• Observe and record the final characteristics of the resulting banana stem

paper.

10. Paper Measurement and Data Analysis:

• Measure the length, width, thickness, and weight of the paper.

• Analyze the collected data to determine the feasibility, quality, and potential

applications of banana stem paper.

Data Analysis

During the process of conducting interviews for the research project on

the potential of banana body trees for paper production, the high school student

would engage with individuals within their school community to gather valuable

insights and perspectives. The student would begin by approaching potential

participants in various school settings, such as classrooms, the library, or the

cafeteria, to explain the purpose of the research and invite them to participate

in the survey. Clear communication about the research topic and the

importance of their input would be crucial to encourage participation and

ensure understanding.
 As the interviews take place, the student would guide participants

through the survey questions, providing assistance and clarification as needed

to ensure that responses are accurately captured. The student would listen

attentively to the participants’ thoughts, opinions, and experiences related to

banana body trees for paper production, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas.

Each completed survey would be collected and stored securely for data

analysis, with the student maintaining a respectful and professional demeanor

throughout the interviewing process. By engaging with their peers in a

collaborative and inclusive manner, the student creates a welcoming

environment for sharing knowledge and fostering interest in the research topic.

Limitations

This study, while offering valuable insights into the potential of banana

body trees for paper production, is subject to several limitations. The limited

sample size may not be representative of the entire population of banana body

trees, potentially restricting the generalizability of the findings to a wider

context. This means that the results may not be applicable to other regions or

to the broader population of banana body trees. Additionally, the study’s focus

on a specific region may not be universally applicable, as environmental and

economic conditions can vary significantly across different locations. This

regional specificity limits the study’s ability to provide a comprehensive

understanding of the potential of banana body trees for paper production in

diverse contexts.

Furthermore, the study’s sole focus on paper production limits its scope,

neglecting other potential applications of banana body trees, such as biofuel

production or the creation of other sustainable materials. This narrow focus

may overlook valuable opportunities for utilizing banana body trees in a more

comprehensive and sustainable manner. These limitations highlight the need

for further research to assess the broader applicability and full potential of this

innovative approach to sustainable resource utilization. Future studies should

aim to address these limitations by expanding the sample size, considering

diverse geographical locations, and exploring a wider range of potential

applications for banana body trees.

Conclusion

This study, while providing valuable insights into the potential of banana

body trees for paper production, is limited by its small sample size, regional

focus, and its exclusive focus on paper production. To fully understand the

potential of this sustainable resource, future research should expand the

sample size, explore diverse geographical locations, and investigate a wider

range of potential applications for banana body trees.

 INTRUMENTATION

Banana Tree Fiber

Testing Durability Strength Aesthetics Texture

(Fold & Cobb (Tearing Test) (Color, Brightness (Smooth or
Test) & Printability) Rough)

A. Thin
Paper
Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

B. Thick
Paper
Trial 1
 Trial 2

Trial 3

Traditional Way (Wood)

Testing Durability Strength Aesthetics Texture

(Fold & Cobb (Tearing Test) (Color, Brightness (Smooth or
Test) & Printability) Rough)

A. Thin
Paper
Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

B. Thick
Paper
Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3