Researchers convert banana cellulose into biodegradable plastic

The video discusses the wastefulness of banana growing, with 88% of the plant discarded after harvesting. Scientists have developed a method to reduce this waste by converting the banana pseudo stem into biodegradable packaging. The process involves extracting cellulose, which is chemically treated to form a polymer that can replace plastic bags and containers. The material is non-toxic and recyclable up to three times. Bananas, being annual plants, offer a sustainable source for this packaging material.

What percentage of the banana plant is typically discarded after harvesting?

• 50%

• 70%

• 25%

• 88%

What part of the banana plant is reused to create biodegradable packaging?

• Pseudo stem

• Banana leaves

• Banana fruit

• Banana roots

What is the first step in the process of converting the banana pseudo stem into packaging material?

• Extracting cellulose

• Recycling the stem

• Cutting and dry-heating the stem

• Chemically treating the stem

What is the final product of the banana pseudo stem conversion process?

• Plastic bags

• Baking paper-like polymer

• Metal cans

• Glass containers

How many times can the new packaging material be recycled?

• Once

• Twice

• Three times

• Four times