Processed banana leaves eyed to ease plastic crisis

In India, a startup is using technology developed nearly a decade ago by 11-year-old chemistry prodigy, Tenith Adithyaa, to convert organic banana leaves into a single-use plastics alternative.

The company, called Banana Leaf Technology, aims to help address the country’s massive plastic waste problem.

Adithyaa’s chemical-free preservation process changes the leaves’ structure so they retain their shelf life for three years. The process also makes the leaves resistant to high temperatures, improves durability and flexibility, and prevents bacteria and fungus from growing.

Banana Leaf Technology’s product lines include plates, cups, boxes and envelopes. After they fulfil their primary use, they can be used as animal fodder or fertilizer.