CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Converting banana peel into an alternative cup is another innovative idea that has

several potential applications. Banana peel is a waste product that is usually discarded, but it

can be transformed into a useful and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cups. Using

banana peel cups is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic or paper cups. It reduces the

amount of waste generated by traditional cups and helps to protect the environment. banana

peel cups are biodegradable, meaning they can be easily decomposed and returned to nature

without causing any harm. This makes them a sustainable and environmentally responsible

option for single-use cups. It can be produced at a lower cost compared to traditional cups,

making attractive option for businesses and individuals looking for an affordable alternative.

This can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. They can be flavored,

colored, or even decorated with different designs to make them more appealing.

The increasing use of conventional plastic has been creating some big problems,

ranging from the oil crisis as a raw material for plastic production and the accumulation of

unbiodegradable plastic waste on the earth. One of the promising measures to handle the

problem is the use of environmentally–friendly biodegradable plastic, made from renewable

materials. The aim of this project is to characterize the properties of bioplastic from banana

peel.

Kanoujiya and Khanna (2019), have explored the manufacturing of a biodegradable

plastic sample and conducted its biodegradability testing. The bio-plastic was made using

1
banana peels sourced from local markets. The sample was buried in soil and reduction in its

weight was noted every seven days by exhuming it.

Based on current events, bioplastic is a better option in terms of being eco-friendly

and not harming the environment. Plastic, on the other hand, cause more problems to the

world rather than solutions. This article is about learning the compatibility of a variety of

fruit waste and paper for bioplastic synthesis and utilizing it for a better purpose.

Throughout, the researchers have already concluded that by using different available fruit

waste, there will be some fruit waste with zero starch content

Plastic has become humans’ vital needs as it has a lot of usefulness. The word

‘plastic' is originally meant flexible and easily shaped. Many studies have been carried out

over the century on how to produce manufactured polymers, occasionally natural substance

usage such as cellulose, but largely utilizing the plentiful carbon atoms provided by

petroleum and other fossil fuels. Engineered plastic composites are comprised of long chains

of atoms, arranged in repeating units, frequently any longer than those found in nature.(N A

Azieyanti et al 2020)

Bioplastic is a renewable plastic from plants (starch, celulose, pectin), animal (kitin

and lignin) and microorganisms. Several researchs have successfully produce bioplastic

from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.), sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb) starch,

cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) starch and starch from banana peel (M. paradisiaca)

from other growing place.

In a study by Zaini et al. (2020), banana peel powder was obtained from a Saba

variety (genome BBB) to develop a chicken sausage with enhanced dietary fibre content.

Chemical analysis showed a significant increase in ash and dietary fibre compared with

2
chicken sausage without the addition of banana peel powder. A positive outcome can also be

observed by decreasing the total fat content from 9.18% in the control sausage to 7.67% in

chicken sausage added with 2% banana peel powder. The authors also reported a significant

improvement in water-holding capacity (WHC) and cooking yield of the chicken sausage

added with 2% banana peel powder. However, the addition of more than 2% of banana peel

powder adversely affected the colour and texture of a product, which later reduced the

sensory acceptance score. Moreover, adding 2% of banana peel powder to sausage inhibited

lipid oxidation up to 55% compared with control, which was refrigerated at ± 4 °C for

30 days, implying its antioxidant properties.

Banana peel can be used as raw material in the making of paper because of its high

concentration of cellulose. Mashing process of banana peel is essential as banana peel

should be brushed, lacerated, and pushed to expand the fibers. While expanding, the outer

layer of the fiber will be decomposed, and the fibrils come out. The process which causes

the fiber surface to get larger is necessary to tighten the fiber of the paper. In the process of

cooking, the temperature should not exceed 100°C since the high temperature in cooking

process will decrease the pulp quality. It then causes the pulp not to last for the long period.

Moreover, cooking process will shade the color of banana peel from yellow to dark brown

indicating the process of lignin extraction from the cellulose

Banana is a locally-grown fruit in the Philippines that is available in the market year-

round. It is a very abundant agricultural produce such that in 2019, the Philippines ranked

second in terms of world export, next to Ecuador.

3
 Banana peels can be recycled into good quality product and be useful to households

and can prove the effectiveness of banana peel as an alternative use of floor wax and

determine if Saba, kind of Banana, was effective.

According to the study of Melvin Zulueta et al 2022, banana peel can be used as a

charcoal substitute. The researchers found out that there is a difference between the

dominant materials, banana peels, wet paper, and sawdust, where the so last lasted longer

compared to banana peels and wet paper in terms of disintegration time. In addition the

researchers came to the conclusion that the commercial charcoal burns stronger than the rest

of the banana briquettes based on the results of the data that they gathered.

4
Statement of the Problem

This research aims to investigate the feasibility of utilizing banana peel as a

sustainable alternative to conventional disposable cup.

Specifically, the study will address the following questions:

1. What properties of banana peel can support to ensure the durability and usability of the

alternative cup?

2. What innovative methods can be employed to transform banana peel into a functional and

sustainable alternative cup?

3. What are the potential advantages of using banana peel as an ingredient in the production

of substitute cups.

Significance of the Study

Eco-conscious consumers. Individuals who actively seek out eco-friendly products will

benefit from having a wider range of sustainable options available to them.

Consumers(ANHS students and Teachers ). benefit directly from using biodegradable and

compostable cups, reducing their contribution to plastic pollution and landfill waste.

Restaurants Businesses. Restaurants can reduce their waste disposal costs and improve

their environmental image by switching to biodegradable cups. This can attract

environmentally conscious customers and enhance their brand reputation.

Educational Institutions. Could incorporate this study into their curriculum, educating

students about sustainable practices and encouraging innovation.

Banana Farmers. Banana Farmers can benefit from potential new markets for their banana

peels, generating additional revenue and contributing to a more sustainable agricultural

system.

5
Bioplastic Manufacturers. Companies specializing in bioplastics can explore banana peels

as a new, sustainable feedstock for their production processes.

Students of ANHS. This study offers a practical and engaging learning opportunity for

students in various fields, such as environmental science, engineering, and design. They can

participate in research, development, and prototyping processes related to banana peel cups.

Future researchers will benefit from this study by gaining valuable insights into the

feasibility of producing biodegradable cups from banana peels and other fruit.

Researchers themselves. Researchers can explore different processing methods to optimize

the strength, durability, and water resistance of banana peel cups.

6
Framework of the Study

Input Process Output

A. Properties of A. Observation
banana peel can support
to ensure the durability B. Expirementation
and usability of the
alternative cup. C. Testing and
B.Innovative methods be
employed to transform Analysis
banana peel into a Potential Application of
functional and Converting Banana Peel
sustainable alternative into Alternative Cup
cup.
C.The potential
advantages of using
banana peel as an
ingredient in the
production of substitute
cups.

Figure 1. Framework of the study Overall, converting banana peels into alternative cups

presents a promising opportunity for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. With

further research and development, this innovative approach can contribute to a more

circular economy and reduce our reliance on plastic.

7
Definition of Terms

Banana Peel. The outer skin of a banana fruit, often discarded as waste. This research

explores its potential as a raw material for bioplastic production.

Biodegradable. Capable of being broken down by natural biological processes, such as

microbial activity, into simpler substances. Biodegradable materials decompose naturally,

reducing their environmental impact.

Bioplastic. A type of plastic derived from renewable biological sources, such as plants or

agricultural waste.

Feedstock. Raw material supplied to a machine or processing plant.

Lignin. This is a complex polymer found in banana, it gives strength and rigidity.

Pectin. This is a natural substance found in the cell walls of plants, especially fruits. It's a

type of fiber that helps to thicken and gel liquids.

Sustainable. Meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability

of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable practices aim to minimize

environmental impact and promote long-term resource management.

8
 CHAPTER 2

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study used an experimental research design. The experimental method of

research, according to Leppink (2019), allowed researchers to test hypotheses, make

predictions, and contribute to our understanding of how variables interacted and influenced

behavior, outcomes, or phenomena. It relied on controlled research methods and random

assignment of study subjects to test a hypothesis. This design was chosen for the study

because it was meant to experiment with the potential application of converting banana peels

into an alternative cup.

Sources of Data

Data collection involved 30 respondents from Anonang National High School,

specifically targeting students who were regular coffee or tea drinkers. This group was

chosen due to their frequent use of disposable cups, providing valuable insights into the

potential application of banana peel-based cups. The diverse perspectives within this group,

encompassing various ages, preferences, and consumption habits, contributed to a

comprehensive understanding of the feasibility and desirability of this alternative.

Instrument and Data Collection

This study utilized a survey to gather data from students at Anonang National High

School who were coffee or tea drinkers. The survey focused on evaluating the potential

application of converting banana peels into alternative cups. The survey included questions

designed to assess the acceptability of banana peel cups as a sustainable alternative to

9
traditional cups, taking into account factors such as taste, texture, and overall satisfaction.

The survey used Likert scale questions to collect detailed responses that could be

quantitatively analyzed. This approach aimed to provide insights into how well banana peel

cups met the needs and preferences of students who regularly consumed beverages.

Analysis of Data

The data collected from the survey, which employed a combination of Likert scales,

were analyzed using statistical tools like percentages and frequencies to assess the potential

application of converting banana peels into alternative cups. The analysis focused on two

key areas: sensory evaluations and sustainability considerations.

Sensory Evaluation

Percentage Analysis. The data from the survey questions about the appearance, smell,

texture, taste, and overall satisfaction of banana peel cups were analyzed by determining the

percentage of respondents who rated each aspect at different levels.

Comparison. These percentages were compared to existing data on the sensory attributes

of traditional cups, particularly for beverages like coffee and tea. This helped determine how

well banana peel cups replicated the sensory qualities of commonly used cups.

Sustainability Considerations:

Frequencies. The survey data were analyzed to determine the frequency of respondents'

responses related to the environmental impact of using banana peel cups compared to

traditional cups. This included factors like biodegradability, compostability, and resource

consumption.

Consumer Acceptance. The data were analyzed to determine the frequency of respondents'

responses related to their willingness to use banana peel cups. This involved examining

10
factors like perceived practicality, aesthetics, and affordability. This analysis helped

determine the feasibility of using banana peel cups as a viable and sustainable alternative to

traditional cups, considering both sensory appeal and environmental considerations.

Scopes and delimitation

This study focused on exploring banana peel as a sustainable and environmentally

friendly alternative to disposable cups. This included understanding its strength, heat

resistance, and ability to prevent liquid leakage. The research explored various methods for

extracting, processing, and molding banana peel into cup-shaped structures, potentially

involving techniques like pulping, blending, or using specific molds. The study was limited

to banana peel as a material for disposable cups and did not explore the use of other plant-

based materials; it focused solely on banana peel as the primary material.

11
 CHAPTER 3

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1. Gender Frequency of Respondents

GENDER FREQUENCY PERCENT

Male 9 30.0

Female 21 70.0

Total 30 100.0

The table 1 shows that out of 30 Senior High School participants, 30% (9 participants) are

male, while 70% (21 participants) are female. This indicates a larger proportion of females

participated in the study.

Table 2. Age Frequency of the Respondents

AGE FREQUENCY PERCENT

16 9 30.0

17 21 70.0

Total 30 100.0

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The table 2 shows that among the Senior High School participants, 36.7% (11 participants)

are 16 years old, and 63.3% (19 participants) are 17 years old. Most of the participants

belong to the age group of 17.

Table 3. The Properties of Banana peel that can be leveraged to ensure the durability

and usability of the alternative disposable cup.

Descriptive Statistics

Statement Weight Mean Descriptive Equivalent Rating

Banana peel is strong 3.2667 Strongly Agree

enough to hold liquid
without breaking.

Banana peel has a natural 3.1000 Strongly Agree

coating that can help
keep water out of the cup.

Banana peel can be made

even stronger and more 3.5667 Strongly Agree
flexible with the right
treatment.

Table 3 shows the properties of banana peel that can help make a durable and usable

alternative cup. The first statement says banana peel is strong enough to hold liquid without

breaking, with a weighted mean of 3.2667, and the respondents strongly agree. The second

statement highlights that banana peel has a natural coating that helps keep water out of the

cup, with a weighted mean of 3.1000, and respondents strongly agree. Finally, the third

13
statement explains that banana peel can become even stronger and more flexible with the

right treatment, with a weighted mean of 3.5667, and respondents strongly agree. This

suggests that banana peel has potential to be developed into a reliable material for making

disposable cups.

Table 4. Innovative methods that can be employed to transform banana peel into a

functional and sustainable alternative disposable cup.

Descriptive Statistics

Statement Weighted mean Descriptive Equivalent Rating

Adding vinegar to the

banana peel helps make it 3.5333 Strongly Agree
bendy and easier to shape
into cups.

Glycerine makes the 3.8000 Strongly Agree

banana peel less likely to
crack and break, making
cups more durable.

Cinnamon helps stop the

mold and bacteria from 3.3333 Strongly Agree
growing in the banana
peel cups, so they stay
fresh longer.

Using a waterproof glue

sealant on the edges of 3.7333 Strongly Agree
banana peel cup can
prevent leaks.

Table 4 shows the different innovative methods that can be used to turn banana peels

into functional and sustainable disposable cups. It presents the statements, their weighted

means, and descriptive ratings. The results show that adding vinegar to the banana peel

helps make it flexible and easier to shape into cups, with a weighted mean of 3.5333,

14
indicating strong agreement. Glycerine is also effective in making the banana peel more

durable and less prone to cracking, scoring a weighted mean of 3.8000, with respondents

strongly agreeing. Using cinnamon helps prevent mold and bacteria growth in the banana

peel cups, keeping them fresh longer, with a weighted mean of 3.3333 and a strong

agreement rating. And lastly, applying a waterproof glue sealant to the edges of the banana

peel cup can prevent leaks, with a weighted mean of 3.7333, also receiving strong agreement

from respondents.

Table 5. The Potential advantages of using banana peel as an ingredient in the

production of substitute disposable cup.

Descriptive Statistics

Statement Weighted mean Descriptive Equivalent Rating

The biodegradability of
banana peel cups will 3.9000 Strongly Agree
help reduce the
environmental impact of
plastic waste.

Banana peel cups can be

marketed as a unique and 3.1000 Strongly Agree
innovative product that
appeals to
environmentally concious
consumers.

Banana peel cups would

be a unique and 3.8667 Strongly Agree
interesting product.

Table 5 shows the potential advantages of using banana peels to make substitute

disposable cups. The results suggest that people strongly agree with several key benefits.

First, they believe that banana peel cups, being biodegradable, can help reduce the

15
environmental impact of plastic waste, with a high weighted mean of 3.9. Second,

participants see banana peel cups as an innovative and unique product that can attract

environmentally conscious consumers, with a weighted mean of 3.1. Finally, the

respondents also strongly agree that banana peel cups would be a unique and interesting

product, with a weighted mean of 3.87. Overall, the findings highlight the positive potential

of using banana peel in creating eco-friendly cups.

16
 CHAPTER 4

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION

SUMMARY

This research investigated the potential of banana peels as an eco-friendly alternative

for making disposable cups. The study began by identifying the properties of banana peels

that support their durability and usability, such as natural strength and water resistance.

Methods were developed to enhance these properties, including the use of glycerine for

flexibility, cinnamon to prevent mold, and waterproof glue to improve leak resistance.

The research employed an experimental design and gathered data from 30

respondents, primarily high school students who were regular users of disposable cups.

Surveys assessed the cups’ acceptability in terms of functionality, sensory qualities, and

environmental benefits.

The results demonstrated that banana peel cups effectively held liquids without

breaking, confirming their strength and practicality. Respondents strongly agreed (weighted

mean: 3.9 out of 4) that these cups were innovative and environmentally sustainable.

Specific findings showed that the cups’ enhanced properties, such as flexibility and mold

resistance, made them suitable for practical use. Additionally, participants found the cups

appealing for their unique and eco-friendly design, emphasizing their potential as a viable

alternative to plastic.

Overall, the study highlighted the feasibility of using banana peels to address

environmental issues caused by single-use plastics. The findings indicated that these cups

could be a practical solution for consumers and businesses looking to reduce plastic waste

17
while promoting sustainability. Further improvements in production methods and durability

could enhance their wider adoption and effectiveness in everyday use.

CONCLUSION

The study shows that banana peels have great potential to be used as an alternative

material for disposable cups. They are biodegradable, eco-friendly, and rich in properties

like strength, flexibility, and water resistance, which can be enhanced through simple

methods such as adding glycerine, cinnamon, or waterproof glue. These innovations make

banana peel cups practical and effective for holding liquids without leaking. Using banana

peel cups can significantly reduce plastic waste, helping to address the growing problem of

environmental pollution caused by single-use plastics. The study also highlights the appeal

of banana peel cups as a unique and sustainable product that could attract environmentally

conscious consumers and businesses. While there are still areas to improve, like refining the

production process and making the cups more durable for wider use, this research proves

that banana peel cups are a viable alternative. They not only promote sustainability but also

encourage innovation in creating eco-friendly products, contributing to a cleaner and greener

future for everyone.

RECOMMENDATION

This study is recommended that further research be conducted to explore additional

treatments and methods to enhance the durability, flexibility, and water resistance of banana

peel cups. Educational campaigns in schools and communities should also be initiated to

raise awareness of the environmental benefits of using banana peel cups as a sustainable

alternative to traditional disposable cups. Collaborating with bioplastic manufacturers can

help scale production, making these cups more widely available. Additionally, testing

18
should be expanded to refine the production process and improve user satisfaction. Finally,

businesses, particularly environmentally conscious cafes and restaurants, should be

encouraged to adopt banana peel cups, highlighting their eco-friendly advantages and unique

appeal.

19
 References

Alcaraz, A., Klara, M., Dimaano, Ann, P., Feliciano, C., Andre, K., Ong, G., Carlos, I.,

Lugay, A., & Eng. (2019). Effectiveness of Musa Paradisiaca (Banana) Peel as an

Alternative to Commercial Floor Wax for Household Use in the Philippines. Asia Pacific

Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 7(2), 38–48

Azieyanti, N. A., Amirul, A., Othman, S. Z., & Misran, H. (2020). Mechanical and

Morphology Studies of Bioplastic-Based Banana Peels. Journal of Physics: Conference

Series, 1529, 032091

Banana Peels as Novel Food: Policies and Marketing of a Sustainable Product. (n.d.).

Retrieved November 29, 2024

Leppink, J. (2019). Statistical Methods for Experimental Research in Education and

Psychology. In Springer Texts in Education. Springer International Publishing.

Maria Abel, D., de Castro Ruas, J., de Castro Ruas, A., & Kok, T. (2023). Characterization

Properties of Banana Peel as a Promising Alternative for Bioplastic.

Rivadeneira, J. P., Wu, T., Ybanez, Q., Dorado, A. A., Migo, V. P., Nayve, F. R. P., &

Castillo-Israel, K. A. T. (2020). Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Pectin from “Saba”

Banana Peel Waste: Optimization, Characterization, and Rheology Study. International

Journal of Food Science, 2020, 1–9.

20
Widiastuti Agustina, E. S., & Elfi Susanti, V. H. (2018). Natural wrapping paper from

banana (Musa paradisiaca Linn) peel waste with additive essential oils. Journal of Physics:

Conference Series, 1022, 012032

Zulueta, M., Renelle Caraig, Ron Basti Roxas, & Neo Kan Batayola. (2022). The Use of

Saba Banana (Musa acuminata × M. balbisiana) Peel as a Charcoal Substitute.

ResearchGate; unknown.

21
 APPENDICES

Before

During

22
23
24
25
26
 ANONANG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan

CURRICULUM VITAE
CORPUZ, MARK CHRISTIAN ESTAYO
Personal Data:
Age: 18
Date of Birth: April 27, 2006
Address: Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan
Cell Number: 09102115982
e-mail: n/a

Educational Background
Secondary:
Senior High School
Anonang National High School
2023-2024
2024-2025
Junior High School
Anonang National High School
2019-2023

Primary:
Anonang Elementary School
S.y, 2012-2018
 ANONANG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan

CURRICULUM VITAE

ESTRADA, JARINE CAIRA NAVARRETE

Personal Data:
Age: 17
Date of Birth: March 8 , 2007
Address: Cabaruan, San Fabian, Pangasinan
Cell Number: 09301149718
e-mail: estradacaira@gmail.com

Educational Background
Secondary:
Senior High School
Anonang National High School
2023-2024
2024-2025

Junior High School

Anonang National High School
20-2023

Primary:
Cabaruan Elementary School
S.y, 2012-2018
 ANONANG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan

CURRICULUM VITAE

MAGLINTE, MAESEIYA ANDREENA SUGUITAN

Personal Data:
Age: 17
Date of Birth: May 22, 2007
Address: Anonang, St. Baraoas,San Fabian
Cell Number: 09162047276
e-mail: maeseiyamaglinte@gmail.com

Educational Background
Secondary:
Senior High School
Anonang National High School
2023-2024
2024-2025

Junior High School

Tubao National High School
20-2023

Primary:
Anonang Elementary School
S.y, 2012-208
 ANONANG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Anonang, San Fabian, Pangasinan

CURRICULUM VITAE
ZAMUDIO, FRANKLIN VILLEGAS
Personal Data:
Age: 18
Date of Birth: February 19, 2006
Address: Angio, Amansec, Pangasinan
Cell Number: 09707940491
e-mail: flin2764@gmail.com

Educational Background
Secondary:
Senior High School
Anonang National High School
2023-2024
2024-2025
Junior High School
Anonang National High School
2019-2023

Primary:
Angio Elementary School
S.y, 2012-2018