Development and Evaluation of a Biodegradable Plant Pot from Carica papaya Agricultural Waste for Circular Economy and Sustainable Agro-entrepreneurship

Malaysia is facing the growing environmental issues of food waste, significantly from agricultural by-products such as papaya peels and seeds, posing a notable challenge to sustainability. Simultaneously, the gardening sector produces large amounts of plastic pollution mainly through its extensive use of polybags. The BioPaya Pot addresses both critical problems by transforming fruit waste into biodegradable, eco- friendly plant pots, offering a groundbreaking alternative to plastic containers. Made from reused papaya waste, the BioPaya Pot incorporates organic binders such as glycerine and agar to form a flexible and durable material. As the pot decomposes, it enriches the soil with essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, promoting healthier plant growth without chemical fertilizers. This product serves two purposes by decreasing food waste while creating an eco-friendly alternative to plastic waste. The BioPaya Pot illustrates the principles of a circular economy, by repurposing agricultural waste into a valuable product. Its production fosters the development of green entrepreneurship and holds significant potential for expanding sustainable practices within the horticultural and urban agriculture sectors. The innovation targets gardeners, farmers, and environmental advocates, with benefits that include reducing landfill waste, promoting soil health, and minimizing plastic pollution. By revolutionizing the gardening industry, the BioPaya Pot has the potential to create lasting environmental and economic impact, fostering a cleaner, greener future.