University of Energy develops bio-plastic

The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani has developed a bio-plastic, made out of corn starch and degrades within a reasonable timescale. The innovation is aimed at finding a solution to the menace of challenging plastic waste management.

The bio-plastic can be used for the manufacturing of cups, bowls, packaging bags for consumable products and the likes. A Lecturer at the Department of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Dr. Mark Amo-Boateng, said the University is currently doing further researches to further inform future commercial production.

The biodegradable plastics, he noted, have the potential to replace the commonly used petroleum-based plastics which have increasingly become environmental nuisance. Non-degradable plastic containers among others washed into the oceans and estuaries are harmful to fish, seabirds and other marine life. The devastating effects of non-degradable plastics, even informed government’s decision to place a ban on its manufacturing as well as the sale of light plastics in November 2016.

This came to light when the Us Ambassador to Ghana, Robert Porter Jackson and his entourage visited UENR in Sunyani. The Ambassador was conducted round the University campus by the Management of UENR, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Harrison Dapaah.

This was to offer the Ambassador the opportunity to acquaint himself with developments at the young University and possibly facilitate collaborations with Universities in US. The visit formed part of Mr. Jackson’s three-day of the Brong Ahafo Region.