Disposable Plastic Research Articles

One Year of Mandatory Reusable Packaging in Germany: Opportunities and Obstacles from the Perspective of Consumers and Companies

Since the beginning of 2023, the so-called reusable packaging obligation has been in place in Germany in order to reduce the amount of waste from takeaway packaging. Catering companies will then be obliged to offer reusable packaging as an alternative to disposable plastic takeaway packaging. As part of the pilot project ‘Mehrweg Modell Stadt’ (‘Reusable city model’), an open infrastructure for reusable cups is in trial in Mainz and Wiesbaden. The project was subjected to a scientific monitoring process, which included the implementation of quantitative surveys among various stakeholders within the value chain, namely consumers, catering companies, and other companies engaged in the project. This was conducted over two time periods: August 2023 to September 2023, and February to March 2024. The results show a discrepancy between consumers’ attitudes and their actual behavior: Despite a high level of sustainability awareness and perceived positive benefits of reusable packaging, perceived barriers stand in the way of actual use. The biggest challenges for companies are the lack of consumer demand, practical handling and hygiene requirements. The results of this quantitative social research provide important insights for the development of targeted measures to promote the use of reusable packaging in takeaway catering and contribute to the discussion on closing the attitude–behavior gap along the entire value chain.

Development of Biodegradable Bioplastics with Sericin and Gelatin from Silk Cocoons and Fish Waste.

The bioplastics sector promotes environmentally friendly means of cutting down on the usage of fossil fuels, plastic waste, and environmental pollution. Plastic contamination has detrimental effects on both ecological systems and the global food supply. The approach we present here to resolve this issue involves the integration of sericin and gelatin, obtained from cocoon and fish waste, respectively, with nano-reinforced cellulose crystals, to develop a biodegradable and compostable plastic material. The use of cocoon and fish wastes for the extraction of sericin and gelatin presents an environmentally beneficial approach since it contributes to waste reduction. The sericin level found in silk cocoon waste was determined to be 28.08%, and the gelatin amount in fish waste was measured to be 58.25%. The inclusion of sericin and gelatin in bioplastics was accompanied by the incorporation of glycerol, vinegar, starch, sodium hydroxide, and other coloring agents. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) examination of bioplastics revealed the presence of functional groups that corresponded to the sericin and gelatin components. The tensile strength of the bioplastic material was measured to be 27.64 MPa/psi, while its thickness varied between 0.072 and 0.316 mm. The results of burial experiments indicated that the bioplastic material had a degradation rate of 85% after 14 days. The invention exhibits potential as a viable alternative for packaging, containment, and disposable plastic materials. The use of this sustainable approach is recommended for the extraction of sericin and gelatin from silk cocoons and fish waste, with the intention of using them as raw materials for bioplastic production.

The silent threat of plastics along the coastal frontiers of Bangladesh: Are we concerned enough?

Globally plastic pollution is posing a significant threat to the health and integrity of coastal ecosystems. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of plastic pollution in the coastal areas of Bangladesh by examining land-based macroplastic distribution, exploring microplastic (MP) contamination in the coastal aquatic ecosystem and enhancing our understanding of the potential risks associated with MP contamination. Citizen science based monitoring approach using the android application was applied to understand the land-based plastic pollution in the coastal area of Bangladesh. From December 2022 to December 2023, a total of about 3600 photographs of plastic items from 215 citizen scientists were received from the coastal area of Bangladesh covering 580 km long coast line. Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) and Pollution Load Index (PLI) were also calculated to understand the risk of plastic pollution in sediment, water, aquatic organism, dried fish and sea salt. A total of 43 land-based plastic items reported from the coastal area of Bangladesh. Among these plastic items single use items contributed 58.2 % while disposable plastic items contributed 41.8 %. A strong spatial variability in the distribution of these plastic items was observed. PHI and PLI values suggested hazard category-I for MP contamination in sediment, sea salt, water, commercial fishery resources and dry fish. This study highlighted that coastal land area, sea salt, dried fish, water, sediment and organisms are contaminated with plastics which might have the potential threats to human health. Findings from this study will serve as reference data and also baseline for future research to combat the plastic pollution.

The repurposing of single-use disposable plastic available in dermatology departments for genital dermatoscopy

The repurposing of single-use disposable plastic available in dermatology departments for genital dermatoscopy

Stimulation of Purchase Behavior Toward Biodegradable Bags: The Role of Green Skepticism

Today, the habit of using light, durable, and disposable plastics that are poorly managed is one of the main reasons for environmental pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change in Vietnam. Besides, due to the lack of consumption, most plastic companies in Vietnam refuse to switch their production to biodegradable plastic bags. The study is conducted to promote the purchase behavior of biodegradable plastic bags, which can reduce the consumption of non-degradable plastic in Vietnam. A non-probability sampling method was applied, with a sample size of 828 consumers who lived in Southeast Vietnam. SmartPLS software was applied to examine the hypotheses. The results show that attitudes, coping appraisal, and threat positively influence the purchase behavior of biodegradable plastic bags. Green skepticism negatively moderates the relationship between attitudes, coping appraisal, threat appraisal, and purchase intention toward biodegradable plastic bags. This study also added psychological factors, such as green skepticism, to fill the perception-behavior gap from previous studies and extend the protection-motivation theory. Some managerial implications will be proposed for plastic companies in Vietnam to switch their production toward biodegradable plastic bags. Besides, consumers will also be given guidance and encouragement to use these products through integrated marketing communication strategies. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-03-04 Full Text: PDF

Strong, anti-swelling, and biodegradable seaweed-based straws with surface mineralized CaCO3 armor

While the extensive utilization of disposable plastic straws has resulted in significant environmental issues such as microplastics and soil and ocean pollution, the quest for alternative straws for versatile use remains a formidable challenge. Here, drawing inspiration from naturally water-resistant materials such as bones and sea urchins, we have developed seaweed-based straws with significantly improved water resistance and mechanical strength via in-situ mineralization of CaCO3 on their surfaces. Specifically, the COO− groups on the G (α-L-guluronate) blocks of alginate were employed to establish a robust cross-linked network, while the COO− groups on the M (β-D-mannuronate) blocks attracted free Ca2+ through electrostatic forces, thereby promoting CaCO3 nucleation. This effectively prevents COOH groups from hydrating, reducing swelling, and results in the fabrication of nano- to micron-sized CaCO3 particles that reinforce the structure without compromising the cross-linked network. Compared with the control group, the S5% sample (prepared with 5 % Na2CO3 solution) exhibited a 102 % increase in water contact angle, a 35 % decrease in swelling degree, and a 35.5 % and 37.5 % increase in ultimate flexural and tensile stress, respectively. Furthermore, the potential use of these straws as a waste for heavy metal adsorption was investigated, addressing environmental concerns while demonstrating economic feasibility.

Non-targeted identification and risk assessment of unknown substances in disposable plastic tableware by GC-Orbitrap HRMS

Disposable plastic tableware was widely used and it was particularly important to identify potential hazardous substances in it and evaluate the risk to humans health. In this study, 85 substances were identified in 60 samples (22 bowls, 20 sporks, and 18 straws) by methanol extraction and non-targeted analysis using GC-Orbitrap HRMS. Subsequently, 14 high-risk substances were further screened and their migration in the samples was measured in three food simulants. Finally, based on the proposed safety limit assessment scheme for EU- authorized and unauthorized substances, the risk assessment of exposure to high-risk substances in disposable plastic tableware was performed for three age groups. The results showed that the dibutyl phthalate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in some samples exceeded the safety limit value. Overall, the risk of bowls was lower than spock and straws, and the potential exposure risk for young children was higher than that of adults and older children.

Prevalence of synthetic phenolic antioxidants in food contact materials from China and their implications for human dietary exposure through take-away food

The application of disposable tableware has increased substantially in recent times due to the rapidly growing food delivery business in China. Synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) are widely used in food contact materials (FCMs) to delay the process of oxidation; however, their compositions, concentrations, and potential health hazards remain unclear. Therefore, FCMs comprised of five materials obtained from 19 categories (n = 118) in China were analyzed for SPAs concentrations. FCMs have been found to contain a variety of SPAs, with ∑SPAs concentrations ranging from 44.18 to 69,485.12 μg/kg (median: 2615.63 μg/kg). The predominant congeners identified in the sample include 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP), 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol (2,6-DTBP), and 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-benzoquinone (BHT-Q) with a median concentration of 885.75, 555.45 and of 217.44 μg/kg, respectively. Milky tea paper cups, instant noodle buckets, milky teacups, and disposable cups showed high levels of SPAs. 2,2′-methylenebis(4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol) (AO 2246) was predominantly detected in polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate-based products. The migration test identified disposable plastic cups and bowls as the predominant FCMs and 2,4-DTBP as the dominant SPA. The exposure risk of SPAs decreased with age. In children, the estimated daily intake of ∑SPAs from FCMs was determined to be 17.56 ng/kg body weight/day, which was 8.3 times higher than that of phthalic acid esters. The current findings indicate the potential ingestion risk of SPAs during the daily life application of multiple FCM categories.

Adverse Outcome Phenomena and Toxicity Mechanisms of Micro and Nanoplastics in Human Health

The ubiquitous presence of micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment has become a pressing global concern, particularly regarding the potential impacts on human health. This review underscores the urgent need for an integrative research framework that bridges the gap between epidemiological observations and toxicological insights. Human exposure to MNPs occurs predominantly through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact pathways. Epidemiological findings have consistently demonstrated the presence of MNPs in diverse human tissues, signaling a broad exposure and emphasizing the imperative to explore potential health risks. Population surveys have shown that the concentration of MNPs in the feces of people using disposable plastic tableware reaches 24.65 items/g. These results are associated with changes in microbiota composition and metabolite levels relevant to central nervous system disorders, energy metabolism and inflammatory responses. The detectable abundance of MNPs in the nasal mucus of individuals wearing N95 masks was measured to be 10.6 ± 2.3 items/mg. Moreover, population-based studies have linked MNP exposure to adverse health outcomes, suggesting correlation relationships between exposure levels and specific diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and human pulmonary ground-glass nodules (GGN). These associations underscore the necessity for in-depth toxicological investigations to elucidate the toxicity mechanisms of MNPs. Meanwhile, laboratory-based toxicological studies have the potential to reveal causative relationships and various in vitro and in vivo models have been used to explore the mechanisms of the toxicity of MNPs in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs and cardiovascular system. However, early studies failed to reflect on the complexity of the real environment. To foster interdisciplinary collaborations, this paper aims to reconcile the disparities between exposure risks and human health impacts. By critically reviewing recent advancements in understanding the exposure risks of MNPs, epidemiological observations and organ-specific toxicity, this work furnishes a comprehensive perspective on the health implications of MNPs.

Reactive extrusion fabrication of thermoplastic starch with Ca2+ heterodentate coordination structure for harvesting multiple-reusable PBAT/TPS films

Creating multiple-reusable PBAT/TPS (PT) films presents a novel solution to reduce carbon emissions from disposable packaging, addressing challenges like the high creep of PBAT and the glycerol migration of TPS. Consequently, adopting reactive extrusion to fabricate reversible cross-linking TPS with high shape memory performance, low migration, and homogeneous dispersion in PBAT matrix was a fascinating strategy. Herein, starch, glycerol and CaCl2 (calcium chloride) were extruded to fabricate TPS-Ca with Ca2+ heterodentate coordination structure and confirmed by XPS, 1H NMR and temperature-dependent FTIR. The results of DMA, dynamic rheology, flow activation energy and SEM revealed that TPS-Ca exhibited significant temperature-sensitive reversible properties and robust melt flow capability, enabling micro-nano scale dispersion in PBAT. Noteworthy, PBAT/TPS-Ca (PT-Ca) would recover 100 % length within 20 s by microwave heating after being loaded under the hygrothermal environment. Meanwhile, the migration weight of glycerol decreased from 2.5 % to 1.2 % for the heat-moisture-treated PBAT/TPS (HPT) and PBAT/TPS-Ca (HPTCa). Remarkably, the tensile strength and elongation at the break of HPT-Ca increased to 20.0 MPa and 924 %, respectively, due to reduced stress concentration sites in the phase interface. In summary, our study provides a streamlined strategy for fabricating multiple-reusable PT, offering a sustainable solution to eliminate carbon emissions linked to disposable plastic.

Paper-based material with hydrophobic and antimicrobial properties: Advanced packaging materials for food applications.

The environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution have prompted the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives to disposable plastic packaging and utensils. Paper-based materials, derived from renewable resources such as wood pulp, non-wood pulp (bamboo pulp, straw pulp, reed pulp, etc.), and recycled paper fibers, are distinguished by their recyclability and biodegradability, making them promising substitutes in the field of plastic food packaging. Despite their merits, challenges like porosity, hydrophilicity, limited barrier properties, and a lack of functionality have restricted their packaging potential. To address these constraints, researchers have introduced antimicrobial agents, hydrophobic substances, and other functional components to improve both physical and functional properties. This enhancement has resulted in notable improvements in food preservation outcomes in real-world scenarios. This paper offers a comprehensive review of recent progress in hydrophobic antimicrobial paper-based materials. In addition to outlining the characteristics and functions of commonly used antimicrobial substances in food packaging, it consolidates the current research landscape and preparation techniques for hydrophobic paper. Furthermore, the paper explores the practical applications of hydrophobic antimicrobial paper-based materials in agricultural produce, meat, and seafood, as well as ready-to-eat food packaging. Finally, challenges in production, application, and recycling processes are outlined to ensure safety and efficacy, and prospects for the future development of antimicrobial hydrophobic paper-based materials are discussed. Overall, the emergence of hydrophobic antimicrobial paper-based materials stands out as a robust alternative to plastic food packaging, offering a compelling solution with superior food preservation capabilities. In the future, paper-based materials with antimicrobial and hydrophobic functionalities are expected to further enhance food safety as promising packaging materials.

Biodiversity of aquatic insects flourished in the rain water collected from Kosti and Rabak cities, White Nile State, Sudan

Biodiversity including description of status of ecosystems and populations to the best to our knowledge and major threats for better biodiversity conservation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biodiversity of aquatic insect population in the rain water collected from White Nile State. The samples of the rain water were collected during (March and October 2022) from Kosti and Rabak Cities, White Nile State, Sudan, in clean disposable plastic bottles from random sites. Anopheles, Culex and Aedes mosquito’s larvae were identified and counted, in addition to their aquatic predators (mayfly, dragon fly and water beetles), while algae and snails were just checked for their presence within this sites. The results at Kosti city during March 2022, showed the dominance of Anopheles (37 larvae) over Culex (14 larvae), while mayfly were the more abundant predators (16 naiads), followed by water beetle (6 beetles). In Rabak city, Culex (44 larvae) was the most dominant in addition to water beetles (12 beetles). During October 2022, Anopheles (78 larvae), Culex (34 larvae) and mayfly were the dominant organisms. In Rabak city, Culex (50 larvae) was the most dominant genus, while Aedes larvae were not noticed throughout this study. Mayfly and dragon fly naiads, and water beetles were not noticed in all Rabak site

Evaluation of coliform (E. coli) load of the drinking water collected from Kosti and Rabak Cities, White Nile State, Sudan

Microbial drinking-water quality testing plays an essential role in measures to protect public health. However, such testing remains a significant challenge where resources are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the coliform load of drinking water from White Nile State. Samples of the drinking water were collected from Kosti and Rabak, White Nile State, Sudan, in clean disposable plastic bottles from random sites. The estimation of E. coli bacterium test was performed in Microbiology Laboratory, University of Gezira. The results showed that, Rabak samples had high mean number (92 + 22.27) of colonies/plate than Kosti samples (29.33 + 14.11), and this denotes a significant difference between them during (March, 2022), but those samples collected during (October 2022) and (March 2023) showed non-significant differences in microbial count, although Rabak samples showed high mean number of colonies/plate than Kosti samples. It was also noticed that, the contamination of the drinking water increased gradually throughout the study periods and sites. This reflect the increase in the organic waste and decrease in treatment of pollutants in both Kosti and Rabak cities during the study period.

A Study on Factors Influencing Behavioral Intentions for Separating Recyclable Waste in Korea

This study delves into the intricate relationship between individuals’ environmental knowledge, awareness of the ban on disposable plastic cups, and intentions to separate recyclables. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior, the research design, data collection, and methodology encompassed the acquisition of 483 valid samples from 16 major metropolitan cities and provinces in South Korea. Environmental knowledge was assessed, focusing on two pivotal factors: environmental harmfulness and recycling. Path Analysis, executed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), allowed for evaluating path coefficients, specific indirect effects, and total effects of latent variables within the research model. The results illuminate the most influential pathways within the model. Individuals’ attitudes toward separating recyclables substantially impacted their intentions to engage in separation behavior (t = 9.420, R² = 0.380, p < 0.000). Furthermore, environmental knowledge significantly shaped individuals’ attitudes (t = 8.607, R² = 0.271, p < 0.000). Every hypothesis within the model was statistically significant, underscoring the robustness of the findings. An intriguing discovery was that the awareness of the ban on disposable plastic cups exerted a more pronounced influence on individuals’ practical understanding of precise recycling methods, as opposed to their general knowledge about the harmfulness of plastics. In conclusion, this study offers compelling evidence that residents’ environmental knowledge and attitudes toward recycling play pivotal roles in boosting their active participation in waste separation efforts. These findings have substantial implications for environmental policy and awareness campaigns, emphasizing the need to foster knowledge and positive attitudes to promote sustainable recycling practices.

Assessing the environmental sustainability of consumer-centric poultry chain in the UK through life cycle approaches and the household simulation model

Chicken fillets, predominantly encased in disposable plastic packaging, represent a common perishable commodity frequently found in the shopping baskets of British consumers, with an annual slaughter exceeding 1.1 billion chickens. The associated environmental implications are of considerable significance. However, a noticeable gap exists concerning the household-level ramifications of chicken meat consumption, which remains a prominent driver (165 kg CO2eyr−1 per capita) of environmental impacts in the United Kingdom (UK). This study's primary objective is to integrate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology with insights derived from a spectrum of interventions simulated within the Household Simulation Model (HHSM). The interventions that are simulated are influenced by various consumer behaviours related to the purchase, consumption, storage and disposal of chicken fillets. The overarching aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environmental consequences associated with each intervention.The research encompasses eight distinct household archetypes and the UK average, with a focus on discerning differences in their environmental influence. The introduction of shelf-life extension measures leads to a reduction in the overall environmental impacts (in μPt), with reductions ranging from 1 % to 18 %. Concurrently, waste treatment's environmental burdens can be curtailed by 9 % to 69 % for the UK average. Of the 12 interventions tested, the intervention that combines a one-day extension in the shelf life of open packs and a three-day extension for unopened packs leads to the greatest reduction in environmental impacts, at 18 % for the entire process and 69 % for the waste treatment. This intervention is estimated to yield annual reductions of 130,722 t of CO2 emissions across the entire process and 34,720 t of CO2 emissions from waste treatment, as compared to the default scenario. These findings demonstrate the importance of integrating consumer behaviour, food waste, and packaging considerations within the domain of food LCA research.

Development of an electrochemical device based on aptasensors for the determination of caffeine in beverages

Herein, we constructed a miniature electrochemical device for highly sensitive and selective detection of caffeine in beverages. A disposable gold-film plastic electrode was modified with the caffeine-specific aptamer to serve on the working electrode. It was then equipped in a detachable three-electrode test system to perform the electrochemical measurements. The whole device is robust, cost-effective, easy to fabricate, and convenient to maintenance. The preparation of the proposed device was carefully characterized and optimized. Under optimal analytical conditions, the concentration of caffeine in the range of 0.1 − 50 nM showed a good linear relationship, and the detection limit was as low as 0.079 nM. The developed method also exhibited good stability and selectivity. The practicality of this device was certified by testing the caffeine concentration in beverages on the market and comparing the results with the method based on UPLC-HRMS.

A Qualitative Analysis of Sustainable Menstrual Products Among College Students

This research article aims to raise awareness about a more sustainable eco-friendly, money-saving, and hygienic way for women to manage menstruation using sustainable menstrual products. The commercialization of disposable plastic menstrual products as a stress-free period by the corporate giants made women use sanitary pads that offer menstrual hygiene. Though it is hygiene which means managing menstruation under all conditions, it is not safe for both the environment and for women. As sanitary pads are made up of non-biodegradable plastic, the menstrual waste that is disposed of is piled up in landfills and water bodies, would takes around 500-700 years to decompose. Additionally, many women may not realize that these sanitary pads are loaded with toxic chemicals that would affect women's health. So, the best alternative solution for managing menstruation is to adopt sustainable menstrual products that can promote better menstrual health and reduce waste. In this analysis, we explored ways to promote sustainable menstrual products through three key themes. Firstly, we found that spreading awareness and educating people about the benefits of eco-friendly options like cloth pads could help overcome hesitancy and misconceptions. Secondly, participants highlighted the importance of making these products more accessible and affordable through mass production and government initiatives, ensuring that all women have easy access to them. Lastly, the role of influencers, especially on social media, and government support emerged as crucial in promoting sustainable menstruation through campaigns, documentaries, and free product distribution. This research study highlights the significance of awareness, accessibility, and influential support in encouraging the widespread adoption of sustainable menstrual products.

Solar desalination evaporator made of black round plastic lunch box and black garbage bag

So far, it is generally believed that black matter means that it can strongly absorb nearly 57 % of the energy in the incoming light of the sun. In the field of photothermal interface evaporation, there are many substances which surface is black but not concerned. Inspired by the above understanding, this paper selects disposable black round plastic lunch boxes and black garbage bags as solar absorption materials to make photothermal desalination evaporators for the first time, to prove that these black disposable wastes can not only be recycled, but also can be used to make interfacial evaporators. Polyester cloth is used as the water delivery channel, and the two-dimensional evaporation device made of black round plastic lunch box successfully achieves a high level of steam output. The value even exceeds 1.45 kg m-2 h-1. In addition, we also prepared a three-dimensional evaporator using a black garbage plastic bag as only solar energy absorber. The three-dimensional evaporator uses radiation cooling film as diffuse reflection substrate. The radiation cooling film and polyester cloth can multiple reflect and absorb the incident solar energy, so that the black plastic bag can multiple re-absorb the incident solar light. The solar energy absorption rate of the three-dimensional evaporator is as high as 95.14 %, and the steam output is as high as 8.91 kg m-2h-1.

Recycling and reusing potential of disposable low-density polyethylene plastic waste for flexible paver tile construction for outdoor application

Plastic waste disposal has escalated into a serious global concern due to the non-biodegradable nature of plastics, which are composed of high-molecular-mass organic polymers along with other ingredients. Therefore, this study focuses on reusing and recycling LDPE plastic waste as a binding agent in paver tile production. This aligns with global sustainability goals by promoting resource efficiency and reducing waste generation. The investigation aims to address the environmental impact of plastic waste by finding sustainable solutions for its management. This includes exploring the feasibility and viability of using LDPE plastic waste in paver tile production as a means of recycling and reusing locally collected waste. The LDPE waste plastic collection, identification, milling, and melting at 170 °C. Subsequently, the sampled sand, sieved to a size of ≤0.75 mm, was blended with molten plastic in a specified proportion and then molded to create paving tiles using a hydraulic press machine. The researchers utilized response surface methodology (RSM) combined with Box-Benken designs (BBD) to optimize three key experimental parameters (plastic-to-sand ratio: 10 %, 25 %, 40 %; time: 2, 5, 8 min, pressure: 1, 3, 5 MPa) influencing mechanical properties of paver tiles, including water absorption (WA), flexural strength (FS), and compressive strength (CS). The result revealed that the optimal combination of 25 % waste plastic, 5 min, and 3 MPa of pressure resulted in a maximum flexural strength (FS) of 3.689 MPa and compressive strength (CS) of 4.141 MPa, with an average water absorption (WA) of 0.322 %. Therefore, the mechanical properties of the developed tiles met the desired standard. In conclusion, the mechanical qualities of the tiles were promising, indicating that reusing waste LDPE plastic to create paver tiles presents an appealing option for plastic waste disposal. The composite paver tiles exhibited promising attributes for outdoor applications, such as park pavement and outdoor public spaces, owing to their favorable mechanical properties and low water absorption.

Harnessing Plant Bioelectricity through Prickly Pear as Botanical Batteries

Plants which are essential for life, have the potential to become a renewable energy source in the Future. They can generate electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and being environmentally friendly. This study aims to explore the untapped potential of botanical batteries and contribute to green energy technology. Plants' capacity to convert sunlight into chemical energy could be a viable and environmentally friendly source for electrical power generation, offering a sustainable solution to the world's growing energy demands while mitigating climate change impacts. To achieve the goal of the study, pure experimental research was applied. And the researchers used cactus (prickly pear), copper nails, zinc nails, copper wire, alligator clips, and disposable plastic containers. The study was conducted at Bayugan National Comprehensive High School, Bayugan City. Throughout the analysis of the data obtained after the three tests conducted, it has been found that like an electrochemical cell, copper and zinc electrodes inserted into prickly pear leaves can generate energy. With the highest current magnitude and maximum value at the highest contact area, the prickly pear plant has the highest potential for energy harvesting. Cut-off or partially leaved leaves can be harvested for their energy, which can then be utilized to charge batteries or power low-power devices.