From Agricultural Waste to Green Value: Advancing Toward Full Circularity
The AFA explained that Taiwan’s harvested area of bananas is more than 14,000 hectares. After bananas are harvested, farmers are often left with even larger volumes of banana pseudostem byproducts, which in the past were commonly treated as waste. However, banana pseudostems are rich in recyclable natural fibers with strong carbon-reduction potential, making it a missed opportunity if they are not put to good use.
To establish a circular use model for banana pseudostems, the AFA has worked with TBRI to develop appropriate field cultivation management practices and labor-saving methods for pseudostem harvesting. It has also supported the establishment of the first regional facility for automated banana pseudostem fiber extraction and recycling. With automated fiber extraction equipment, the facility will be able to produce high-quality banana fiber quickly and consistently, supporting the promotion of textiles made from banana pseudostem fiber.
TBRI Director Dr. Wen-Li Lee noted that although fiber obtained from banana pseudostems through automated extraction accounts for only 1% of the material, the remaining residue from the extraction process can also be used. Drawing on its specialized technologies and experience, TBRI is able to dry and grind the residue for use in biodegradable products, such as agricultural mulch film, fruit bagging materials, plastic bags, egg cartons, and cushioning materials. These materials hold strong potential as next-generation alternatives to plastic products.
In addition, through collaboration with NPUST, the facility is planned as an important site for teaching and hands-on training. By combining academic instruction with practical operation, it will help students and agricultural practitioners understand the importance of agricultural residual resources and circular sustainability.
The AFA emphasized that, in promoting circular agriculture, the Ministry of Agriculture has identified “full circularity and zero waste in agriculture” as an important policy objective. By showcasing the circular use model for banana pseudostems at this demonstration event, the initiative not only unlocks the value and potential applications of banana residual resources, but also helps reduce dependence on the petrochemical industry.
Through the facility’s demonstration and educational functions, the AFA hopes that more farmers and industry partners will join the movement toward circularity and zero waste, working together to build a sustainable future where environmental friendliness and economic benefits go hand in hand.
