Behind the convenience of wrapping food in plastic, are we aware of the huge problem we are bequeathing to the Earth? The more people there are, the more fast food is consumed, and of course, the more packaging is generated.

Plastic Waste Crisis and the Abundance of Cassava

Modern life is inseparable from the use of plastic, especially for food packaging. Plastic is chosen because it is cheap, lightweight, and durable. However, this massive usage is turning into a major environmental problem. Indonesia produces nearly 70 million tons of waste annually , and almost 20% of it is plastic, majority of which comes from single-use food packaging. Plastic is difficult to decompose, contributing to floods, marine pollution, and the environmental crisis.

Ironically, on the other hand, cassava (singkong), which is rich in starch and abundant in various regions, is very cheap and even a complaint for cassava farmers today. This commodity has not been optimally utilized , even though it can be a solution to replace conventional plastic.

Bioplastic from Cassava

Bioplastic made from cassava offers a solution to two major challenges: the declining price of agricultural produce and environmental pollution caused by plastic. With a starch content of up to 90% , cassava can be processed into an eco-friendly biofilm for food packaging. This biofilm is easily decomposable, safe, and more affordable than conventional plastic.

To produce packaging that is strong, flexible, and water-resistant, other natural materials such as CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose) and glycerol need to be added. CMC functions to enhance the film's structure and mechanical strength, while glycerol provides elasticity. Research conducted by Siti Munfarida from the Kalimantan Institute of Technology (ITK) proves that this combination is capable of creating packaging that meets international quality standards while remaining environmentally friendly.

A Real Step Towards a Sustainable Future

We cannot continue to rely on single-use plastic amid a worsening waste crisis. Simple innovations such as cassava-based packaging are not just a green idea, but a real step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.