A group of young Peruvians launched a project called “Bio-Plant,” which creates disposable plates and bowls made entirely from banana leaves.

Thanks to the financial sponsorship of the Innóvate Program in Peru (as part of the Bio Challenge, which supports the development of innovative sustainability solutions), they were able to design and manufacture specialized machines for the production of biodegradable cookware.

With new equipment, they can produce 50 thousand plates per month. From an ordinary tree, about 1 thousand paper plates are obtained.

To make bright white paper saucers, pulp obtained from wood fibers must be bleached. Chlorine compounds are among the most hazardous industrial chemicals used in large volumes; they are known carcinogens and are also suspected of causing malformations, reproductive function and immune system in living organisms (including humans).

In the United States alone, 64 billion paper cups and plates are thrown away annually. However, they are not recyclable.

However, plates and bowls from Bio Plant completely decompose in less than 60 days. No chemicals are used for bleaching, so no carcinogenic chemicals will be washed out in food.

For the manufacture of these plates, leaves are used that fell to the ground when collecting clusters of bananas. No tree should be cut down or picked for leaves, the developers say.

"The estimated selling price of our dishes is $ 29.64-35.56 per 100 plates, depending on the thickness of the sheet, but over time it may become more affordable for all consumers," said Soto.

Currently, the group plans to enter the market of natural restaurants and ecological wineries with its product.