by Leandra Weber
We are used to petrochemical plastics. But you can also make your own biodegradable plastics from potatoes at home. I have explored applications for such self-made bioplastics to avoid unnecessary plastic waste.
The tuberours of the potato plant is one of the starchiest growths we know. In a number of experiments and investigations I learned how to produce biodegradable starch plastic.
Here are two applications for the potato plastic:
1. Packaging
One is a solution to keep your vegetables fresh. The plastic covers the food and keeps the it moist without any harmful petrochemical components.
2. Plant pot
The other one is a substitute for a plastic planter. The bioplastic serves the plant as container and nutrition.
You can mix the material with organic fertilisers like coffee grounds and eggshells. During the decomposition process it serves as a nourishing foundation for the plant.
