Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Husk and Banana (Musa sapientum) Fiber as Biodegradable Dry Wipes
Document Type
Paper presentation
School Name
Saint Louis College
School Code
N/A
Abstract / Executive Summary
The increasing use of non-biodegradable dry wipes from synthetic fibers such as polyester and polypropylene contributes significantly to environmental pollution and potential health risks to humans and wildlife. This research supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It contributes to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by reducing synthetic waste that can contaminate water systems; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting the use of locally sourced agricultural by-products, potentially creating livelihood opportunities; SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by encouraging sustainable material use and waste reduction; it supports SDG 13 (Climate Action) by lowering reliance on petroleum-based products; SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by minimizing marine pollution; and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by reducing solid waste accumulation in terrestrial ecosystems. In response, this study developed biodegradable dry wipes using coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk and banana (Musa sapientum) fiber. These materials contain lignocellulosic components—cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin—that provide natural strength, durability, and flexibility. Using an experimental research design with a quantitative approach, different formulations were produced and evaluated based on water absorption and biodegradability. Data were analyzed through one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests to determine significant differences among formulations. Results revealed significant differences in performance. Balanced proportions of coconut husk and banana fiber improved both water absorption and biodegradability. No significant difference was found between Formulations A and C in biodegradability, while Formulation B showed the most optimal overall performance. Researchers recommend that the marketing industry should consider merchandising biodegradable dry wipes out of natural fibers.
Keywords:
coconut husk; banana fiber; biodegradable dry wipes; biodegradability; water absorption
Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Husk and Banana (Musa sapientum) Fiber as Biodegradable Dry Wipes
The increasing use of non-biodegradable dry wipes from synthetic fibers such as polyester and polypropylene contributes significantly to environmental pollution and potential health risks to humans and wildlife. This research supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It contributes to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by reducing synthetic waste that can contaminate water systems; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting the use of locally sourced agricultural by-products, potentially creating livelihood opportunities; SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by encouraging sustainable material use and waste reduction; it supports SDG 13 (Climate Action) by lowering reliance on petroleum-based products; SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by minimizing marine pollution; and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by reducing solid waste accumulation in terrestrial ecosystems. In response, this study developed biodegradable dry wipes using coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk and banana (Musa sapientum) fiber. These materials contain lignocellulosic components—cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin—that provide natural strength, durability, and flexibility. Using an experimental research design with a quantitative approach, different formulations were produced and evaluated based on water absorption and biodegradability. Data were analyzed through one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests to determine significant differences among formulations. Results revealed significant differences in performance. Balanced proportions of coconut husk and banana fiber improved both water absorption and biodegradability. No significant difference was found between Formulations A and C in biodegradability, while Formulation B showed the most optimal overall performance. Researchers recommend that the marketing industry should consider merchandising biodegradable dry wipes out of natural fibers.
