A review study on Banana Pseudostem Fibre as a Renewable Alternative to SingleUse Plastic Packaging: A Sustainable Approach Towards Circular Bioeconomy

Abstract

Significant environmental problems, such as ongoing pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and ecological deterioration, have been brought about by the widespread usage of petroleum-based single-use plastics. Packaging materials that are sustainable, biodegradable, and renewable are therefore in high demand. An underutilized biomass rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, and natural fibers is the banana pseudostem, an agricultural leftover left over after fruit is harvested. This biomass can be converted into biodegradable packaging materials like paper, molded containers, films, composites, and packaging based on nanocellulose rather than being thrown away or burned. This review objectively assesses banana pseudostem fiber's physicochemical characteristics, extraction methods, processing strategies, packaging uses, environmental advantages, economic viability, and contemporary difficulties. Recent technological developments such as bio-based coatings, active packaging solutions, and nanocellulose reinforcement are also highlighted in the paper.