Dr Anjum Nawab, a Pakistani scientist and assistant professor at the University of Karachi, announced yesterday that he had generated a bioplastic using the mango kernel.
The bioplastic obtained is easily degradable and does not pose any threat to the environment, marine and plant ecosystems.
In an interview with a national private TV, Nawab he said “Pakistan ranks first in the world for mango production, which is why my research had a conservative approach. I wanted to exploit a widely available raw material and the bioplastic obtained rewarded my long work".
With the improvements made starting from the first formula obtained also in different studies from sugar plants, the bioplastic obtained can be used to make bags capable of being composted in the soil. A bit like food waste, or it can dissolve in a few minutes simply in hot water.
More than a formula, a process
Nawab's studies are also applicable to wastes of other fruits. The next phases of testing will aim to find an even better balance. The objective is to help plastic producers as well as farmers to simultaneously reduce costs for themselves and for the environment, valorising food waste and products that would otherwise end up in waste.
“The entire process, starting from the generation of mango stone-based bioplastics to the manufacturing of these special bags, is sustainable. On an environmental level there are no risks or processing waste", keep it going Nawab. “This research can also have a great impact on work. Pakistan is a country full of talented professionals who can successfully contribute to the creation of a truly new industry."
Pakistan is imposing a ban on the use of polyethylene bags to combat environmental damage, and will turn this necessity into a great green solution if it pushes in the direction of bioplastics.
On the other hand, nothing is thrown away of fruit.
Source: pakistan today
