Sustainable Biodegradable Plastics: A Comparative Study of Taro (Colocasia esculenta) and Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Starches for Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions

Environment, Waste Management, Physical Science

This study examines the possible use of Taro (Colocasia esculenta) and Cassava (Manihot esculenta) starch as a sustainable alternative bioplastic for eco-friendly packaging. The use of plastics, however, has increased concerns regarding plastic pollution and environmental sustainability and hence the search for biodegradable plastics from natural resources. The research was focused on creating biodegradable plastic films using Taro and Cassava starches and their comparative assessment in terms of some mechanical properties, biodegradation and environmental safety. The performed methods included starch isolation from plants, film making and testing the stripped films for select parameters such usability, tensile stress and degradation. The results show that although both starches can in some measure be used for biodegradable packing, Taro starch’s accompanying tensile strength allows it to be perceived as the more durable of the two. Cassava starch however had a higher valve of biodegradation potential, indicating lower potential for environmental persistence. The study concludes that plastics made from Taro and Cassava starches are also bioplastics and can satisfactorily replace synthetic plastics according to use requirements such as strength or biodegradability. The findings make a positive step towards realizing sustainable packaging solutions to plastic waste management and environmental protection.

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