The Effectiveness of Banana Stem as an Eco Bag

An Investigatory Research Presented to the

Faculty of Senior High School Department

Binangonan Catholic College

Binangonan, Rizal

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Subject Practical Research of the Strand

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

By

Antazo, Alhona Mae S.

Carreon, Precious Mae L.

Niones, Kent Jules C.

Sison, Ma. Lyra Katrina P.

December 2021

i
 Binangonan Catholic College

Binangonan, Rizal

Senior High School Department

CERTIFICATE OF VALIDATION

This is to certify that the study entitled The Effectiveness of Banana Stem as

an Eco Bag of Alhona Mae S. Antazo, Precious Mae L. Carreon,

Kent Jules C. Niones, Ma. Lyra Katrina P. Sison

from Grade 12- Science, Technology,

Engineering and Mathematics strand, reviewed and approved by the

undersigned as to its composition, content and grammar.

MR. RAYMART F. REDITA, LPT

Research Adviser

MR. JOHN CHRISTIAN T. NEO

Critic Reader

MR. DANILO F. DERILO JR., LPT

Research Expert

ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers would like to extend their deepest appreciation and

gratitude to the following who helped, encouraged, guided and inspired them in

the accomplishment of this study.

To Rev. Fr. Glenn William Z. Relucio, Ph.D., BCC President, for the

spiritual guidance that he gives to all students of Binangonan Catholic College.

To Mrs. Jenny A. Granale, Senior High School Principal, for allowing the

researchers to conduct this research and for providing some advice to them.

To Ms. Gabriella Andrea A. Evangelista, their research teacher, who

taught them how to conduct this research and also for the love, guidance,

support, advices and suggestions for the research to complete the study.

To Mr. Raymart F. Redita, their research adviser, for all the help, effort,

and advices that the researchers received and as well as for the guidance and

encouragement to make this study possible.

To Mr. John Christian Neo, their critic reader, for the time and effort in

checking the researchers’ manuscript in terms of grammar.

To Mr. Danilo F. Derilo, Jr., as the member of the panel of evaluation, for

his invaluable notions and words, intellectual suggestions and recommendation

to improve this study.

iii
 To the researchers’ families and friends, for the help, love, and support

that they received, either financial or words of encouragement, just to finish this

study.

And above all, to Almighty and Ever-loving God, for the strength and gift of

knowledge that He sent to the researchers as He guided them to finish this study.

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 ABSTRACT

This study aspires to have an unconventional and alternative source of

plastic bags using banana stem as an Eco-bag. This was conducted in order to

produce an eco-bag using banana fibers with a binding agent. The mechanical

properties of the different treatments were evaluated in terms of strength,

durability, smell, capacity, texture. In order to accomplish the eco-bag made out

of banana stem fibers, there was a collection of raw materials in eco-bag and as

well as the gathering of data. The results from the first trial showed that if the

paper was thin, it was too easy to tear and dissolve, and the smell was stinky so

it cannot be reused again. Second trial was thicker and stronger rather than the

first trial and the smell was also stinky. Finally, the third trial had more strength

and thickness, durability and had a fragrant smell.

v
 Table of Contents

Preliminaries Page

Title Page i

Certificate of Validation ii

Acknowledgement iii

Abstract v

Table of Contents vi

List of Figures viii

List of Tables ix

CHAPTER

I. PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND 1

Background of the Study 1

Conceptual Framework 7

Objectives of the Study 8

Hypothesis 8

Scope and Limitations of the Study 9

Significance of the Study 9

Definition of Terms 11

vi
 II. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 12

Research Design 12

Settings of the Study 13

Subject of the Study 14

Materials, Tools and Equipment 15

Procedure of the Study 18

Instrumentation 18

III. PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA 19

Several trials and Observation 19

Presentation of Data 24

IV. SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECCOMENDATION 29

Summary of Findings 29

Conclusion 30

Recommendation 31

BIBLIOGRAPHY 33

CURRICULUM VITAE 36

vii
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Figure of Conceptual Framework 7

Figure 2. Figure of Location Map 14

Figure 3. Figure of Gantt Chart 17

Figure 4. Figure of Documentary of the Products 23

viii
LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Table of Materials, Tools and Equipment 15

Table 2. Quantitative Measurements of materials for the first trial 19

Table 3. Quantitative Measurements of materials for the second trial 20

Table 4. Quantitative Measurements of materials for the third trial 22

Table 5. Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of durability 25

Table 6. Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of texture 26

Table 7. Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of capacity 27

Table 8. Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of smell 27

ix
 CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

This chapter presents the background of the study, conceptual framework,

objective of the study, hypothesis, scope and limitations, significance of the study

and definition of terms.

Background of the Study

Ecology has been greatly disturbed due to the indiscriminate use of

plastics that do not decompose for a long period of time. Environmental

consciousness had been a concern of the past decades (Thi & Giang 2014), in

fact, ecological problems were marked as early as 1980 which include: global

warming, greenhouse effect, pollution and climate change and these are present

in the industrial environment. (Sandu 2014). At present, environmental problems

and the effects of climate change are apparent (Polo 2015) and

environmentalism has fast emerged among consumers and started demanding

eco-friendly products especially in developed countries.

Water is regarded as polluted when there is change in its quality or

composition, either directly or indirectly, as a result of both natural and human

activities, such that it becomes unsuitable for domestic uses, agricultural,

fisheries or any other purposes for which it would otherwise be quite suitable in

its normal or uncontaminated state. One of the most important needs of living

things is water because of its significance to human and other biological

1
organisms. After air, water is the most vital requirement for sustenance of life.

Pollution in a natural way is not very serious with water, as the pollutants get

assimilated by water. Water pollutants bring about physical and chemical

changes not only in the surface water, but also in the groundwater.

Plastic bags are widely used in the Philippines. The most common plastic

bags are made from low- or high-density polyethylene and other polymers, which

consist of long chainlike molecules, in which the carbon atom acts as the

backbone to which the hydrogen atoms are attached. Plastic bags also act as an

important tool for marketers, because they can use plastic bags as a packaging

tool to enhance the company or product brand equity. Therefore, some

manufacturers are willing to invest time, effort and resources to improve their

packaging products in order to attract and increase the overt behaviour of

consumers using plastic bags. In the past, most of the shopping malls,

supermarkets and convenience stores provided consumers with plastic bags to

carry their purchases. However, as consumers and governments have developed

a better awareness about the harmful effects of plastic bags, some countries,

including the Philippines, have imposed rules so that consumers must bear the

cost of the plastic bags given by the retailers

Consumers like to use plastic bags because of the ease they provide

when carrying goods. There are several choices for consumers: they could

choose high capacity, easy opening or plastic bags with handles, etc. The

popularity of plastic bags and the demand from consumers and retailers stems

from the fact that plastic bags are cheap, convenient to use, strong, lightweight,

2
high supply rate from the entire world, less space consumption, easy to store and

a hygienic means of carrying food. However, the drawbacks of plastic bags are

that they are harmful to the environment. If not disposed of properly, they cause

pollution and excessive consumption of precious resources of the earth. They are

also harmful to certain types of marine mammals such as turtles, dolphins,

whales, and penguins; approximately 100,000 marine mammals and 1 million

seabirds are killed annually from ingesting plastic bags (McClatchy- Tribune

Business NewsMcClatchy- Tribune Business News, 2008).

Another important factor to consider is the role plastic bags have come to

occupy in daily life. Although plastic bags were originally unpopular when they

were introduced, shopping without a plastic bag today is almost inconceivable (Li

et al., 2017). There is agreement within the field that cultural norms present a

major obstacle to banning plastic bags. The research by Yeow, Dean, and Tucker

(2014) explores the resistance to refraining from plastic bags within the UK, even

though the idea that using plastic bags is unethical is a widely accepted belief,

which they term as an “attitude-behavior gap” (Yeow et al., 2014).

There are other alternatives that individuals have also proposed in place

of plastic bags. These alternatives include paper and biodegradable bags,

although negative environmental impacts are still associated with their usage.

Per Taylor and Villas-Boas (2016), paper bags require more energy to produce

than plastic bags. Paper bags also produce 50x more water pollutants in

production, are heavier, and take up more space in landfills. By replacing one

type of disposable bag for another, we are simply shifting environmental costs

3
around, but ultimately still negatively impacting the environment. They also found

that taxing plastic bag usage was only effective when reusable alternatives were

provided as a cheap replacement option (Taylor et al., 2016). The articles written

by both Stern (2007) and Weisman (2007), and the research conducted by

Runjic-Sokele & Baric (2009), also address the potential of biodegradable bags

by taking a constructionist approach in their analysis of the term “biodegradable.”

Each article notes that biodegradable bags may not decompose in the natural

environment, but instead require specific circumstances which are sometimes

only achieved in industrial compost plants. Because of this, biodegradable bags

which do not decompose pose the same issues to wildlife that plastic bags do,

and, in combination with their high cost, are not a viable replacement for single-

use plastic bags (Stern, 2007).

A disagreement within the field is whether plastic bags are actually a major

contributor to litter, or whether they are just the most visible; Rujnic-Sokele et. al

(2009) argues that there are more important sources of pollution for

environmentalists to target. One limitation of this review is that it fails to include a

source which discusses another potential disagreement in the field, whether

economists who oppose bans in general would oppose a plastic bag ban.

Resources available on the EPA’s website list ways that can help colleges

like Davidson reduce the number of plastic bags used on campus and guide

students into completely banning them all together (EPA, 2017). This paper relies

on several sources that list many successful bans from legislation that was

introduced from the bottom-up in small towns (Transition Wayland, 2017), cities,

4
district and state-wide (Li and Richter, 2015).The researchers of this article

believe that with the used of eco bag it will help our community to reduce the

waste of using plastic bags.

Eco bags not only recycle material that would be going to waste, they also

eliminate the need for single-use plastic bags that have proven to harm the

environment. Made from petroleum, plastic bags fuel extraction of fossil

resources. They also present a serious disposal problem. It takes centuries for

plastic bags to break down in nature, burning them releases poisonous

chemicals, and in oceans, plastic trash harms a number of marine species. Non-

toxic Eco bags, on the other hand, conserve the environment by harmlessly

biodegrading after numerous uses. (unfccc.int, 2019)

Pseudostem and peduncle are the major source of fibre for bananas.

These fibers can be used as raw material for making paper, cardboards, tea

bags, and etc. The strong property of pseudostem as a fiber is an advantage for

it to be a main product for making an eco-bag since it contains a massive amount

of cellulose. And cellulose contains an indigestible or insoluble substance,

making it hard. According to M.K.V Karthikeyan, A.N. D. Balaji and V. Vignesh

( 2016 ) Banana ribbon is a new natural fiber, it has a polyester composites and

have more improvement than a regular fiber, they studied about the fiber and use

electron microscope to probe the fiber matrix interaction, and they learned that

mat composites are used to fabricate windshield of cars and mudguard of two

wheelers. Banana fibers are completely biodegradable, recyclable and are more

environment friendly than synthetic fibers both in terms of production and their

5
disposal. According to phys.org (2019), every day almost 48 million shopping

bags are used throughout the Philippines, adding up to more than 17 billion a

year. Though there are 3r's system and different activities to eliminate plastic, yet

it is still not enough to counter these plastic waste. That’s why the researcher

came up with an idea about Eco bags because this is the best alternative to

plastic bags. Conducting the experiment could have the duration of days or

weeks. (Vigneswaran et al., 2015)

Eco bags are a type of shopping bag which can be reused many times. It

is an alternative to single-use paper or plastic bags. It is often a tote bag made

from fabric such as canvas, natural fibers such as Jute, woven synthetic fibers, or

a thick plastic that is more durable than disposable plastic bags, allowing multiple

use. (Debbie Meyer, 2018) According to Saraexim (2016) Reusable shopping

bags are better than plastic or paper bags. These bags are used to prevent

environmental pollution. Materials, used to produce these bags, do not harm the

quality of our surroundings. These eco bags are generally made of materials

such as banana stem and sodium hydroxide. These products can be used for

various purposes. But in this study, the researchers use banana stem because

they found out that banana fiber is a natural bast fiber which has a wide range of

uses in handicraft product developments such as mat, rope and twines, but only

10% of it. Eco bags not only recycle material that would be going to waste, they

also eliminate the need for single-use plastic bags that have proven to harm the

environment. Made from petroleum, plastic bags fuel extraction of fossil

resources. They also present a serious disposal problem.

6
 Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

The Advantages of using
banana stem as an eco-
bag such as less pollution,
Stronger and more durable,
it can save more money.
Determining the durability
and capacity of banana
stem as an alternative for
plastic bags.
The materials that will be
used are banana stem,
sodium hydroxide, starch
and water.
Cut the banana stem into
small pieces The Effectiveness of
Boiled some water and add Banana Stem as an
the banana stem and the Eco Bag
25mL sodium hydroxide
Strain the banana stem that
were boiled
After that blend the banana
stem that were boiled with
some water and add
cornstarch
Strain the banana stem to get
the fiber on it
Let it dry

FEEDBACK

Figure 1

Conceptual Framework of the study

Figure 1 shows the framework of this study entitled Effectiveness of

Banana Stem as an Eco Bag. Through the evaluated purpose of developing the

recent study, this research is patterned by utilizing the Coombs System which

consist of the three frames which are the Input, Process and Output.

7
 The Input contains the preparation of all the materials such as boiling and

blending the banana stem. The Process stage where it contains all the trials and

errors of the making of the product, several tests and experiments that are

conducted, surveys or interviews will be presented different observation will be

taken into consideration. The Output is “The Effectiveness of Banana Stem as an

Eco Bag”. Bridging connections among these segments is an arrow representing

feedback, which also indicates that the study is a continuous process.

Objective of the Study

The main purpose of this study is to determine the capability of the

banana stem as an Eco bag.

Specifically, the study sought to answer the following:

1. The Durability of Banana Stem as an Eco Bag, and its dissolubility.

2. Analysing the attributes of the texture of Banana Stem as an Eco bag.

3. To determine the capacity of how many items can fit inside the banana stem

as eco bags.

4. To discover if the smell of the Eco Bag is appealing.

Hypothesis

This study entitled “The Effectiveness of Banana Stem as an Eco Bag”

will test the null hypothesis that there are no differences between Eco bags made

8
of Banana Fibers and plastic bags in terms of Durability, Texture, Capacity, and

Smell.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The focus of the study is to produce an eco-bag made from banana stem

fibers. It supports the conductive cells of the phloem and provides strength to the

stem, as well as the development of biodegradable Eco bags using the banana

stem. The researchers will conduct an experiment on how the eco bag durability

and resistance will be affected by the use of banana stem.

This study was conducted by the STEM students of Binangonan Catholic

College during the academic year 2020-2021 and 2021 -2022. A quantitative

research design was used in this paper. The limit of the study involves the

consumer and the environment. As it gives the independence and sense of

responsibility due to countless concerns of the environment.

Significance of the Study

This research is significant for the benefit of the society. Furthermore, this

could be an importance to the following:

To the society or community:

This study will conduce to the benefit of society primarily plastic tax. By

switching to an eco-friendly bag, people will be able to avoid any added expense

when going shopping.

9
Less polluting fossil fuels:

It takes a lot of process to produce plastics such as, burning oils and

other materials that have a major contribution to air pollution. Factories bring a

great number of toxic gasses that they release into the air including soil. With

eco-bags, the people can reduce the usage of plastic because of its convenience

and environment friendly materials.

To the parents:

Eco bags are reusable. The parents usually cook for the family and they

consume plastics the most, so using eco-bags may decrease the risk of plastic

waste by boosting the usage of eco-bags to them.

To the students:

Students will be directly benefited from this research as its findings may

encourage them to consider equipping eco bags as the norm to minimize the

consumption of plastic wastes.

Future Researchers:

This study might be a great help for the future researchers for them to

have this as a guide and reference for their manuscripts.

10
Definition of Terms

Banana Fiber – Banana fiber is a natural fiber with high strength, which

can be blended easily with cotton fiber or other synthetic fibers to produce

blended fabric and textiles. Banana fiber also finds use in high quality

security/currency paper, packing cloth for agriculture produce, ships towing

ropes, wet drilling cables etc.

Banana Pseudo Stem – the pseudo stem is the part of the banana plant

that looks like a trunk. Is form by the tightly packed overlapping leaf sheaths.

Even though the pseudo stem is very fleshly and consist mostly of water, it is

quite sturdy and can support a bunch that weighs 50 kg or more.

Eco Bags – Eco-friendly bags are mainly the bags whose impact on the

nature is minimized. The product can be named as eco-friendly when it has a

small, less damaging or positive effect on the environment or its ecosystems.

Eco-friendly bags are usually made of recycled materials, materials that can be

easily recycled or natural materials.

Plastic Bags – A plastic bag is an unwoven single piece poly fabricated

receptacle for storing, carrying, packaging of a wide variety of items and

materials.

Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) – also known as caustic soda or lye, is a highly

versatile substance used in a variety of manufacturing processes. Sodium

hydroxide is a co-product of chlorine production. In the eco bag process, sodium

hydroxide helps to soften the banana stem so that it can get easily.

11
 CHAPTER 2

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the discussion of research design, setting of the

study, subject of the study, instrumentation and source of data, validation of the

instrument and the procedure of the study.

Research Design

This study utilizes a quantitative research method, a systematic

investigation of phenomena by gathering quantifiable data and performing

statistical and computational techniques.

The researchers also used the experimental approach, in which Ary et al

(2006: 325) states that “Experimental research design is to enable researchers to

estimate the effect of an experimental treatment”. Experimental research can be

done in the laboratory, in the class and in the field.

According to Prasetyo (2008:160) there are many kinds of experimental

research design that are Classical experimental design, Pre experimental design

and Quasi experimental and special design. Experimental research is unique in

two very important aspects. It is the only type of research that directly attempts to

influence a particular variable, and when properly applied, it has one or more

dependent variables. In this study, the researcher will make an eco-bag using a

banana stem.

12
Setting of the Study

Binangonan, first class municipality in the province of Rizal, Philippines.

According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 313,631 people. Binangonan

is bounded to the north-northwest by Angono, the north-northeast by Teresa and

Morong, and to the east by Cardona. It is divided between two regions, the

mainland and the insular areas. The mainland is on the western side of the

Morong Peninsula, and is characterized by small steep hills surrounded by

lowlands. It is cut off by an escarpment to the east, which forms the boundary

with Cardona. Short streams predominantly drain westward into Laguna de Bay.

Binangonan's major source of income comes from agriculture, where 49

percent of its total land area are devoted to agriculture and livestock industries,

while the source of income of residents in its coastal barangays are

mainly artisanal fishing and the aquaculture industry. Binangonan is a major

supplier of freshwater fishes from Laguna de Bay to Metro Manila, Laguna,

Cavite and Batangas.

The study will take place in Macamot Binangonan, Rizal. Macamot is a

barangay in the municipality of Binangonan, the province of Rizal. Its population

as determined by the 2020 Census was 10,301.

13
 Figure 2.

Location map of the study

Subject of the study

Banana Stem as an Eco Bags, are products that are manufactured on the

basis of mechanically blended by machine and binded by binding agent using a

machine that applies pressure. In this Study, Eco Bags-making is the subject. It is

the main source of data and it is made out of raw materials such as Banana

stem, binding agent and sodium hydroxide. The researchers conducted a series

of tests and observations to the Eco bags for a period of time. And the objectives

are used as the basis that guides the researchers in obtaining the data more

effectively.

14
Loosen the fiber of
Use
Mixed
The
banana
This to
will
Container blend
in
main the the
material
stem
serve
for soboiled
blended
as afor
water,that it
can CORN
banana
banana BLENDER
get stem
stemSTARCH
the to have
fiber a
easily
making
binding
blended BASIN
the LAVENDER
agent an OIL
banana stem
on it
fragrant
alternative smell
plastic bag
Materials, Tools and Equipment

The following are classified according to its functions and uses.

PICTURE NAME DESCRIPTION

BANANA STEM

SODIUM HYDROXIDE

15
 Mixed
Use
Use for
to instrain
the
cutting
KNIFE banana
anda the
the
Container
Equipment
Use to
forboil
GAS for
the
STOVE
mixing
POT theboiled
to boiling
hold
banana
stemWOOD
toWATER
chopping
banana SPATULA
CONTAINERS
help the
banana
stem stem a
tostem
form
banana
filtered
stem
ingredients
WOOD stem
banana
STRAINER
ingredient bind easily
paper

Table 1.

Materials, Tools and Equipment for product making

16
Procedure of the Study

ACTIVITY TIME FRAME

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

1. Preparation of
data

2. Title Defense

3. Preparation of
Chap. 1 & 2

4. Colloquium

5. Revision of
Chap 1 & 2

6. Execution of
Experiments,
Trials and
Observation

7. Validation of
Instrumentation

8. Administration
of the
Instrumentation

9. Preparation of
Chap 3 & 4

10. Revision of
Chap 3 & 4

11. Final Oral

Defense

Figure 3.

Gantt chart of the study

Product Making Procedures

17
The process of making the product can be done by the following steps.

1. Cut the banana stem into small pieces.

2. Boil some water for the banana stem and ready the 25 mL of sodium

hydroxide. Once the water is boiled, put the banana stem and the 25mL

sodium hydroxide.

3. Strain the banana stem that are boiled and pour it with water. Afterwards,

blend the banana stem with water and cornstarch

4. Remove it from the blender machine and pour it to the container. Put it in

the water with 15ml of lavender oil for the final outcome then strain it to get

the fiber.

5. Let it dry.

Instrumentation

The study will use experimental and observation which will be answered

by the researchers. Through the observation this will serve as data collection.

They observed the product in terms of Durability, Texture, Capacity, and Smell.

CHAPTER 3

18
 PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This Chapter presents the data gathered including the analysis and

interpretation of data based on the sub-problems that were set at the outset of

the study.

Several Trials and Observation

I. First Trial

Table 2.

MEASUREMENTS MATERIALS

1 Kilo Banana Stem

10 mL Sodium Hydroxide

1 cup Cornstarch

1 Liter Water

Table 2.

Quantitative Measurements of materials for the first trial

On the first trial, the researchers tried experimenting on the given

ingredients that they are going to use - the banana stem, water, cornstarch and

sodium hydroxide. The first step that they do to make an eco-bag using a banana

stem is to prepare a banana stem and chop it into small pieces, and then pour

one-liter water into the pot. Second, the researchers put the chopped banana

stem and the 10mL of sodium hydroxide into the boiling water until it becomes

soft. The third one is to strain the chopped banana stem to reduce the excess

water and put it in the blender and mix it with water and one cup of cornstarch to

19
cut the fibers into small pieces, then the researchers added it into a bowl with

clean water to spread the cut fibers into the water, then strain it with your do-it-

yourself paper maker to reduce the excess water, and dry the strained fibers to

the sun. Lastly is to make a bag using the paper from the banana stem. The

researchers observed that they overcut the fibers that's why the result is thin and

did not achieve the thick paper. On final observation, the first trial failed to form a

thick paper but succeeded to create a bag.

II. Second Trial

Table 3.

MEASUREMENTS MATERIALS

1 Kilo Banana Stem

15 mL Sodium Hydroxide

2 cups Cornstarch

3 Liters Water

Table 3.

Quantitative Measurements of materials for the second trial

On the second trial researchers add many blended and boiled banana

stem to the strainer to make it thicker to replace the thinner product that the

researchers made during the first trial, but it looks like brownish color because of

the banana stem that the researchers pick. Therefore, the components of the

products are Banana stem, Water, Cornstarch and Sodium Hydroxide. The first

step in the second trial is to prepare all ingredients and materials, where they

20
opted to make an eco-bag using banana stem is to prepare a one kilo banana

stem and chop it into small pieces, followed by pouring three liters water into the

pot. Second, the researchers put the chopped banana stem and 15 ml of sodium

hydroxide into the boiling water with chopped banana stem until it becomes soft.

Next is to strain the chopped and boiled banana stem to reduce the excess water

and put it in the blender and mix it with water and two cups of cornstarch to cut

and blend the fibers into small pieces, then the researchers combined them into

a bowl with clean water to spread the blended fibers into the water, then strain it

with your do-it-yourself paper maker to reduce the excess water, and then dry

strained fibers to the sun. After combining all of the ingredients, make an eco-bag

using the paper from banana stem. The researchers observed that they achieved

the thicker paper but its texture is more brownish because of the banana stem

that the researchers picked, so the researchers decided to proceed on the third

trial. On the final observation, the second trial failed because of its texture, but

succeeded to create an eco-bag.

III. Third Trial

Table 4.

MEASUREMENTS MATERIALS

2.5 Kilo Banana Stem

21
 25 mL Sodium Hydroxide

3 cups Cornstarch

15 mL Lavender Oil

7 Liters Water

Table 4.

Quantitative Measurements of materials for the third trial

On the third trial, the researchers decided to remake a new product

because of the texture and smell of the product produced in the second trial.

First, in preparing the ingredients, the researchers collected all the fibers

in the banana stem. This time the researcher added more fiber in order to test

the duration of the product. As they create the product, the researchers sliced the

small pieces the fiber that was obtained from the banana stem. They put the

chopped banana stem and 25mL of sodium hydroxide into the seven liters boiled

water. After boiling the banana stem blend it with water and three cups

cornstarch. But because of the smell of the product produced in the second trial,

the researchers decided to use the lavender oil to reduce the stinking. After

adding 15ml of lavender oil, strain the blended banana stem using the DIY

maker, then expose it to the sun.

After days of observation, the banana stem fiber that the researchers

exposed in the sun already dried. The researchers observed that the third trial

22
was more fragrant than the last one. On the final trial, the researchers finally

succeeded to create an eco-bag.

23
 Figure 4.

Documentary of the Product

Presentation of Data

The researchers gathered enough materials to make an eco-bag. The

group found a banana stem around the researchers’ house. They also bought

sodium hydroxide, cornstarch and lavender oil from an online shop. Once the

materials are complete, the researchers get the fiber from the banana stem and

started to chop it into small pieces. Then they put the chopped banana stem and

25mL of sodium hydroxide into a large pot to simmer the banana stem to make it

soften. Once finished, the researchers start straining the banana stem and they

put it into the blender with water and cornstarch to make it more reduced into

small bits. And after that, put the blended banana stem into a bowl with clean

water and 15mL of lavender oil and start straining it with DIY paper maker and

lastly is to placed it under the sun to dry the paper

24
 Number of trials Its results

1st trial can easily tear

2nd trial Thicker and Durable

(Can’t immediately tear)

3rd trial stronger and more durable than 1st

and 2nd product

Table 5.

Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of durability.

On the first trial, the researchers were able to make an eco- bag. However,

the fibers were chopped into small pieces, hence, making the solution thin and

failed to form a thick paper.

On the second trial, the researchers added more fibers to the previous

solution from the first trial to create a thicker substance and achieved to make a

paper.

On the third trial, the researchers successfully made a thick paper that was

more appropriate to create an eco- bag.

25
 Number of Trials Its Results

1st trial Rough (bumpy)

2nd trial Rough (fibrous)

3rd trial Rough (grainy)

Table 6.

Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of texture.

In all trials, the researchers observed that the texture of the eco bag was

the same but with different types of roughness probably because of the material

used and on how many ingredients were placed in making it.

Number of Trials Its Results

1st trial Not tested

2nd trial Can carry up to 3 cans of sardines

(155 grams per can)

3rd trial Can carry up to 4 cans of sardines

(155 grams per can)

Table 7.

Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of capacity.

26
 On the first trial, the eco bag was not tested by its capacity but the

second and third carry out well. As the third trial improved, the volume was

increased by a number.

Number of Trials Its Results

1st trial Stinky

2nd trial Stinky

3rd trial Bringing out a fragrant smell

Table 8.

Detailed outcome of eco bag in terms of smell.

In the first two trials, the researchers observed that the scent came out

stinky but however, after adding some essence in the last trial it turned out

aromatic.

27
 CHAPTER 4

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the vital findings of the study, the conclusions drawn

and recommendations offered based on the specific problems of the study.

Summary of Findings

The objective of this research was to prove the effectiveness of banana

stem as an eco-bag. The researcher observed the product in terms of the

processing of materials. It was observed that each trial had different result, and it

is due to the cutting of banana stems. The researchers figured out that they

overcut the fibers. After straining the banana stem with the do-it-yourself paper

maker, and expose it to the sun, it was observed that the paper was too thin,

hence its tenuous structure. On the other hand, the final product was successful

28
because of the number of fibers added in making a thick compound, resulting it

into thicker paper which can be applied to become an eco-bag. Furthermore,

fragrance was a great contribution when it comes to entertaining consumers.

Occasionally, raw processed materials may not smell good due to the chemical

and long procedure of exposing and mixing. Therefore, adding essence may help

to attract the consumers, and possibly, produce a diverse of fragrance.

Based on the analysis and integration of the data gathered for this study,

the following were found;

1. The researchers found out that the number of fibers contribute primarily

to the durability of the eco bag.

2. The researchers conclude that banana stem fiber eco bag is more eco-

friendly than traditional cotton made eco bags.

3. The researchers conclude the effects of fragrance to an eco-bag.

4. Eco Bags can bear a stronger load based on its resistance.

5. The researchers discovered the contrast of textures according how

much of the materials is needed.

Conclusion

This study was conducted to make an eco-bag by using a banana stem

as main ingredients. Eco Bag is a type of shopping bag which can be reused

many times. This may help in order to prevent environmental pollution. This

29
project shows that the banana stem has a major contribute to the durability of the

eco bag. Natural fibers present important advantages such as low density,

appropriate stiffness, and mechanical properties, and high disposability and

renewability. Banana fibers are good absorbent, highly breathable, quickly dry

with high tensile strength, biodegradable and have no negative effect on the

texture. And, the durability of banana stem as an eco-bag is proven to be sturdy.

As hypothesis stated, the researchers proved that there are differences

between eco bag made of Banana Fibers and plastic bags, Hence, the

researchers rejected the null hypothesis of the study.

Recommendations

Based on the findings and conclusions, the following recommendations were

set:

1. The researchers recommend this study to avoid pollution and plastic

waste that affects our environment.

2. One should know that this study can save more money.

3. Wider usage implementation of banana stem eco bag for the validity of the

result.

4. Must use banana stem as an eco-bag than plastic bags made of toxic

chemicals that harm environment.

5. Help reducing waste disposal.

30
In conducting a new study connected to the current research, the researchers

suggest to:

1. Choose an ingredient that can prolong the product in a long time.

2. Think of organic ingredients that are beneficial to save more money.

3. Make sure to conduct a better study to avoid unnecessary results.

4. Recycle some materials which can be helpful to the environment.

5. Biodegradable materials like newspapers can also create an eco-bag.

31
BIBLIOGRAPHY

List of References

Gano-an, Jonathan. (March 2018). Consumers’ preferences on the use of eco-

friendly bags: a green

marketing perspective. ResearchGate.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324094883_Consumers’_prefere

nces_on_the_use_of_eco-friendly_bags_a_green_marketing_perspective

Abu Shmeis, Reham M. (2018). Fundamentals of Quorum Sensing, Analytical

Methods and Applications

In Membrane Bioreactors. ScienceDirect.

Https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/water-pollutant

32
Thompson, Richard C. (2019). Plastics, the environment and human health:

current consensus and

future trends. The Royal Society Publishing.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2873021/

Lacoma, Tyler. (April 27, 2018). Materials Used for Making Plastic Bags.

Sciencing.com.

https://sciencing.com/materials-used-making-plastic-bags-5267902.html

Tanguay, Michael. (September 2019). The Best Alternatives To Single-Use

Plastic Bags For Your Business.

Epbsupply.com

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.ebpsupply.com/blog/alternatives-

single-use-plastic-bags%3fhs_amp=true

Patrício Silva, Ana L.(2021) Increased plastic pollution due to COVID-19

pandemic.

Chemical Engineering Journal.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7430241/

33
Muposhi, Asphat (April 2021) Considerations, benefits and unintended

consequences of banning plastic

shopping bags for environmental sustainability. Sage Journals.

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0734242X211003965

Sokele et al. Rujnic. (2009) LIFE CYCLE OF POLYETHYLENE BAG.

Scholarly journal, ProQuest.

https://www.proquest.com/docview/1503677071/abstract/6DBF24C1AB39

4715PQ/8

Wayland, Transition (2017) Plastic Bag Ban

Transition Wayland.

https://blog.transitionwayland.org/projects/ban-the-plastic-bag-

polystyrene-container/plastic-bag-ban/

Subagyo, Asmanto. & Chafidz, Achmand (May 2018). Banana Pseudo-Stem

Fiber: Preparation,

Characteristics, and Applications. IntechOpen.

https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/64570

34
PERSONAL PROFILE

Name: Alhona Mae S. Antazo

Address: 0381-C Anore St. Mambog Binangonan Rizal

Email: alhonamae8@gmail.com

Phone Number: 09457204893

Date of Birth: August 01, 2004

Place of Birth: Binangonan, Rizal

Age: 17

Nationality: Filipino

35
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Secondary Level

 Grade 7-12 Binangonan Catholic College

Primary Level

 Grade 1-6 MV Montessori Integrated School

ACHIEVEMENTS

 Grade 10 With Honor (S.Y 2019-2020)

 Grade 11 With Honor (S.Y 2020- 2021)

SEMINARS AND TRAININGS ATTENDED

 None

PERSONAL PROFILE

Name: Precious Mae L. Carreon

Address: 418 Lobarbio St. Bilibiran, Binangonan, Rizal.

Email: Preciousmaecarreon30@gmail.com

Phone Number: 09215053596

Date of Birth: March 30, 2004

Place of Birth: Binangonan, Rizal

Age: 17

Nationality: Filipino

36
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Secondary Level

 Grade 7-12 Binangonan Catholic College

Primary Level

 Grade 1-6 Bilibiran Elementary School

ACHIEVEMENTS

 None

SEMINARS AND TRAININGS ATTENDED

 None

PERSONAL PROFILE

Name: Kent Jules C. Niones

Address: arago st. Macamot Binangonan rizal

Email: nioneskent2003@gmail.com

Phone Number: 09263952924

Date of Birth: April 1, 2003

Place of Birth: Binangonan, Rizal

Age: 18

Nationality: Filipino

37
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Secondary Level

 Grade 8-12 Binangonan Catholic College

 Grade 7 Cainta Catholic College

Primary Level

 Grade 3-6 Cainta Catholic College

 Grade 1-2 Binangonan Catholic College

ACHIEVEMENTS

 None

SEMINARS AND TRAININGS ATTENDED

 None

PERSONAL PROFILE

Name: Ma. Lyra Katrina P. Sison

Address: 593 F. Cequenia St. Macamot Binangonan, Rizal

Email: sisonlyra92@gmail.com

Phone Number: 09676138207

Date of Birth: January 27, 2004

Place of Birth: Cardona, Rizal

Age: 17

Nationality: Filipino

38
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Secondary Level

 Grade 11-12 Binangonan Catholic College

 Grade 7-10 Philippine Best Training System Colleges Inc.

Primary Level

 Grade 1-6 - Macamot Elementary School

ACHIEVEMENTS

 Grade 7 Top 8 (S.Y 2016 – 2017)

 Grade 8 With Honor (S.Y 2017 - 2018)

 Grade 9 With Honor (S.Y 2018 – 2019)

 Grade 10 With Honor (S.Y 2019 – 2020)

SEMINARS AND TRAININGS ATTENDED

 None

Proof for Final Printing

MR. RAYMART F. REDITA, LPT MR. JOHN CHRISTIAN T. NEO

39
40