Group Project
Names: Sbu &
Nthabiseng
Science Exposition Research Project:
Banana Peel Bioplastic: A Sustainable Solution for South
Africa's Plastic Crisis
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PROBLEM STATEMENT AND AIM
South Africa faces a growing crisis of plastic waste, with
landfills overflowing, marine environments being polluted, and
poor waste management infrastructure in many communities.
The plastic pollution problem is exacerbated by limited recycling
facilities and heavy reliance on single-use plastics.
The aim of this project is to produce an environmentally friendly
bioplastic using banana peels—an abundant agricultural waste in
South Africa. This solution will help reduce conventional plastic
pollution, promote sustainability, and empower local
communities through waste-to-resource innovation.
BACKGROUND RESEARCH
Plastic pollution is a global problem, and South Africa is no
exception. The country generates approximately 2.4 million
tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only a small fraction being
recycled. Traditional plastics, derived from fossil fuels, persist in
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the environment for hundreds of years and contribute to
greenhouse gas emissions, marine pollution, and health risks.
Bioplastics offer a renewable alternative, particularly those made
from organic waste such as banana peels. Banana peels are rich
in starch, cellulose, and natural antioxidants, making them
suitable raw materials for producing biodegradable, compostable
plastics.
Utilizing banana peels not only diverts agricultural waste from
landfills but also provides a cost-effective material for small-
scale bioplastic production, especially in rural or low-income
communities.
ENGINEERING GOAL
To develop a small-scale, replicable method for converting
banana peels into bioplastic. The goal is to create a
biodegradable plastic with basic functional applications, such as
packaging, while demonstrating environmental benefits and
potential for localized production.
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ABSTRACT
This project investigates the production of bioplastic from
banana peels as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic.
The process involves cleaning, boiling, and chemically treating
banana peels to form a biodegradable polymer. This innovation
addresses South Africa’s pressing plastic pollution problem by
offering a renewable, compostable material derived from
agricultural waste. The project demonstrates the feasibility of
transforming everyday organic waste into a useful product that
supports environmental conservation and local economies.
INTRODUCTION
Plastic waste is a serious environmental threat in South Africa. It
pollutes the landscape, chokes marine life, and contributes to
climate change. At the same time, the country produces
significant agricultural waste, including tons of discarded banana
peels.
This project proposes a novel, accessible method of creating
bioplastics using banana peels, aiming to address both the plastic
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waste and organic waste challenges simultaneously. The
resulting bioplastic is biodegradable, non-toxic, and suitable for
limited-use applications such as packaging.
By exploring this innovation, we aim to contribute to the circular
economy, reduce dependence on fossil-based plastics, and
support sustainable development goals in South Africa.
METHODS
1. Preparation of Banana Peels
Collect fresh banana peels.
Wash and cut them into small pieces.
Soak the peels in a 0.2M sodium metabisulfite solution for
45 minutes to prevent oxidation.
2. Boiling and Drying
Boil the pieces in distilled water for 30 minutes to soften
them.
Decant the water and dry the peels on filter paper for
approximately 30 minutes.
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3. Blending into Paste
Blend the dried peels into a uniform paste using a hand
blender.
4. Plastic Formation
Mix 25g of banana peel paste with:
o 3ml hydrochloric acid (for hydrolysis and polymer
bonding),
o 2ml glycerol (a plasticizer),
o 3ml sodium hydroxide (to neutralize the solution).
Optional: Add natural additives (e.g., cinnamon oil for
antimicrobial properties, starch for strength).
5. Molding and Drying
Pour the mixture into a mold (e.g., tray or plate).
Dry in an oven at 65–130°C until a flexible bioplastic film is
formed.
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RESULTS
Physical Appearance: The bioplastic formed a flexible,
semi-transparent sheet.
Biodegradability: Early decomposition signs appeared
within 30 days in compost.
Cost Efficiency: Materials used were inexpensive and
locally available.
Plastic Properties: The bioplastic showed moderate
flexibility but lacked tensile strength compared to
petroleum-based plastics.
DISCUSSION
This method successfully transformed banana peels into
bioplastic using simple materials and processes. It supports local
waste management and environmental goals. However,
challenges include:
Strength and Durability: The plastic is not yet suitable for
high-stress uses.
Water Resistance: Bioplastic absorbs moisture and may
degrade in wet conditions.
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Scalability: The current process is suitable for small-scale
production; further development is needed for industrial use.
LIMITATIONS AND ERRORS
Variability in banana peel starch content can affect plastic
quality.
Uneven drying can lead to cracking or inconsistent
thickness.
No advanced mechanical testing (e.g., tensile strength) was
performed.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Explore blending with other biodegradable polymers to
enhance strength.
Conduct mechanical property testing to better understand
performance.
Investigate waterproof coatings to expand usability.
Partner with local farming communities for peel collection
and processing.
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CONCLUSION
Banana peel bioplastic offers a promising, eco-friendly
alternative to traditional plastics in South Africa. It presents a
practical way to address plastic pollution while creating value
from agricultural waste. With further development, this
innovation could significantly reduce environmental damage and
contribute to sustainable packaging solutions across the country.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to our mentors, science teachers, and community
members who supported the project through materials, ideas, and
encouragement.
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REFERENCES
1. Plastics SA. (2023). South African Plastics Recycling
Survey Report.
2. Reddy, M.M., et al. (2013). "Bioplastics and Their Potential
Use in Food Packaging." International Journal of Chemical
and Biological Engineering, 6(4).
3. Government of South Africa. (2022). National Waste
Management Strategy.
4. Uddin, T. (2018). "Production of Bioplastic from Banana
Peel." International Journal of Engineering Research and
Technology, 7(10).
5. National Geographic. (2021). Planet or Plastic? Campaign.
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