PROJECT
REPURPOSING COCONUT HUSK AND PALM BUNCHES AS A NEW SOURCE OF RAW MATERIAL FOR PAPER PRODUCTION
ABSTRACT
Over 86 percent of discarded plastic in Ghana is disposed of inappropriately, causing serious environmental problems like clogged sewers, contaminated rivers and streams, and a surge in plastic pollution in the ocean. Paper packaging is sometimes thought of as a greener option to plastic, but with 42 percent of the world's wood harvested going toward its manufacturing, there are serious environmental issues associated with it. One such issue is deforestation. Using agricultural waste as a raw material for sustainable paper production is an intriguing idea that this study investigates. Using agricultural waste, we hope to lessen the environmental damage caused by the production of traditional paper and offer a more environmentally friendly substitute for conventional paper packaging as well as plastics.
1. INTRODUCTION
About 2.58 million metric tonnes of raw plastics are imported into Ghana annually, of which 73 per cent effectively ends up as waste, while only 9.5% of the waste is collected for recycling (World Economic Forum, 2023).
Figure 1: Plastic waste pollution
An estimated 86 percent of Ghana’s waste plastic load is improperly disposed of, resulting in plastics clogging water drains, rivers, and streams and ending up in the oceans (Musah et al, 2021).
An estimated 86 percent of Ghana’s waste plastic load is improperly disposed of, resulting in plastics clogging water drains, rivers, and streams and ending up in the oceans (Musah et al, 2021).
1.1 Problem Statement
While paper packaging is often considered an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic, its production poses significant environmental challenges, notably contributing to deforestation. The manufacture of paper utilizes 42 percent of the world's total wood harvest, making it a primary cause of deforestation (Johnston, & Radeloff, 2019). This large-scale wood consumption not only threatens forest ecosystems but also undermines the goal of promoting sustainability.
2. Approach
Introducing an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic packaging: paper packaging made from palm bunches and coconut husk.
3. Uniqueness
Creating a new source of raw material for sustainable paper production by repurposing agricultural waste indicates the uniqueness of our idea. This cutting-edge process not only reduces the environmental impact by but also reduces the need for deforestation traditionally associated with paper production.
4. Results and Contributions
There is a strong and growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Consumers are more eco-conscious than ever, seeking products that align with their values of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Figure 2: Paper making process
PaCo Paper responds to this demand by providing a viable, eco-friendly alternative to plastic and conventional paper products.
Figure 3: Paper Egg crates and Sheet
Our products (Figure 4) would help businesses meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for sustainable practices, making them a timely and relevant solution in today’s market.
Team Members
Baah Edwins
Koforidua Technical University baahgyanedwins@gmail.com
Takyi Emmanuel Nathan
Koforidua Technical University en507040@gmail.com
Yarigah Rashida
Koforidua Technical University yarigahrashidah57@gmail.com
Martey Eugenia
Koforidua Technical University ohemaagena@gmail.com
SUPERVISORS
Prof Samuel Kwofie
Director of Research and Innovation
Koforidua Technical University
Patience Kwakyewa Asirif
Intellectual Property (IP) Expert Directorate of Research and Innovation Koforidua Technical University