QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- Dr. Noel Peter Tan, a Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Medium-Term Balik Scientist is developing a plant-based, biodegradable packaging from waste materials. Tan leads the research on Nano-enabled bioplastics from regenerated cellulose.
Regenerated cellulose are materials derived from natural cellulose like sisal plant, banana, kenaf, flax, jute, hemp, and pineapple leaf. This natural cellulose is then turned into a soluble cellulose derivative which can now be dissolved in water.
The research aims to produce an alternative source of biodegradable bioplastic with an improved mechanical property suitable for packaging materials.
“I am a Balik-Scientist in the Philippines under the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST),” Tan said.
“I am taking the role to lead the newest research center... with a vision to become a leader in new materials, engineering, design, and emerging technologies research,” he added.
The Balik Scientist Program (BSP) encourages Filipino scientists and technologists to come back to the Philippines, share their knowledge, and help boost the country's scientific and technological capabilities. The program aims to enhance research and innovation by bringing back skilled professionals to contribute to the country's development through their expertise.
Tan has extensive experience in Applied Chemistry, specifically in the field of nanotechnologies for more than 10 years.
Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in 2024 revealed that the Philippines produces 61,000 metric tons (MT) of solid waste daily. One metric ton is equivalent to 1,000 kilos or around 20 sacks of rice.
Of the 61,000 MT of solid waste, 12 percent or more than 7,000 MT are plastics. It consists of almost 160 million sachets, 45 million thin-film plastic bags, and 40 million disposable or paper bags.
Traditional plastics have been affecting the environment since the 1900s. Apart from being non-biodegradable, it uses fossil fuels, has a large carbon footprint, and stays in the atmosphere for hundreds of years.
This is what Balik Scientist Dr. Tan aims to solve, with the help of DOST.
“Contributions of Balik Scientists, like the work of Dr. Tan enriches the country through innovations geared towards solving national concerns like environmental protection and management,” said DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia.
“We are confident that his influence will continue to drive innovation and inspire future scientists. We are honored to have him as part of the Balik Scientist Program and look forward to his future endeavors,” said DOST-PCIEERD Executive Director, Dr. Enrico C. Paringit.
The DOST Balik Scientist program was established as early as 1975 aimed to promote continuous knowledge sharing and enhance the flow of new technologies into the country. (JVD/PIA-NCR)
