From Waste to Wonder: How Ecosphere Transforms Plant Waste into Eco-Friendly Tableware

Did you know you could use disposables, made straight out of plant waste? Typically, bagasse, more commonly known as sugarcane pulp, is a by-product generated during sugarcane juice production. Simply put, it is a fibrous waste left behind once the juice is extracted from sugarcane stalks. And, being plant waste, it does not require any land or trees to be cut for the manufacturing process.

This plant waste is usually dumped in landfills and is burned, leading to excessive amounts of air pollution. However, we at Ecosphere upcycle this very waste and carve it into everyday essentials like bagasse plates, bowls, and hot cups.

Bagasse and products made out of bagasse usually feel and look like paper because they have a high cellulose content. However, unlike trees that take over 30 years to grow, sugarcane is ready for harvest in just 6 months. Plus, unlike other resources like trees or plastic, bagasse products like bagasse hot cups are relatively renewable because they are made from agro-waste.

What is Bagasse and How Is It Made?

As stated above, bagasse is a fibrous residue left behind during sugarcane juice production. This by-product, being agro-waste, is usually burned in landfills. However, it is an excellent option for single-use plates, bowls, and much more.

While paper and bagasse almost look the same, they are very different. Paper comes from trees, while bagasse is simply a by-product of sugarcane production. The wood pulp from trees is used to make paper, but bagasse is sourced from waste left behind after the juice is extracted from sugarcane stalks.

Another significant difference is the time it takes for regeneration. Trees take almost 30 years to grow just 36 inches, making them hard to harvest repeatedly. However, sugarcane is ready for harvest in six months. Plus, bagasse being a by-product doesn’t account for resource depletion. With over 1 million species living on a single tree, deforestation for paper production can be devastating to the environment.

Here’s how Ecosphere produces bagasse tableware like compostable hot cups and clamshells:

Sourcing of Bagasse

Rather than burning bagasse in landfills, which contributes to air pollution, we upcycle this plant waste to make durable and eco-friendly bagasse plates, bowls, and hot cups. Unlike plastic disposable plates, our bagasse plates do not rely on non-renewable resources like trees and plastic. Plus, these products are 100% compostable, breaking down into compost that leaves no plastic behind.

Cleaning & Drying

Once we source the bagasse, we clean it thoroughly by soaking it in water to eliminate any germs or unwanted particles. Then, the bagasse is separated into fibrous and non-fibrous parts using a machine called a dipither. Only the most fibrous, impurity-free parts are used to produce our tableware.

The Pulping Stage

After cleaning and drying, the bagasse is shredded and turned into pulp. This pulp is processed through three different stages to ensure the final material is of premium quality. We ensure that only the finest pulp goes into making our bagasse products like bagasse plates, bowls, and hot cups.

Molding & Shaping

Once we have the right consistency, the pulp is transferred into molds and shaped into bagasse plates, bowls, and other tableware. Using high-pressure hot presses, we mold the pulp into durable, eco-friendly products that can withstand heat and cold.

Pressing & Checking

Once molded, the products undergo pressing with hydraulic machines to remove any remaining moisture and ensure smooth edges and surfaces. Our quality control team ensures that every product is free from defects.

Final Quality Checks

Each product is thoroughly inspected before being packed and shipped. Only the highest quality products that meet industry standards are sent out.

Environmental Benefits of Ecosphere’s Bagasse Products

By choosing Ecosphere's bagasse tableware, you are making a positive impact on the environment. Here’s how:

• Low on Resources: An average tree takes almost 30 years to grow, and deforestation for paper production impacts air quality and biodiversity. In contrast, Ecosphere's bagasse products are made from the by-product of sugarcane, a fast-growing crop, making them an ultra-sustainable alternative.
• Low Carbon Footprint: Our bagasse tableware is made from plant waste and does not rely on non-renewable resources like plastic or petroleum, reducing its carbon footprint.
• Certified Compostable: All of our bagasse products are certified compostable, breaking down into compost within 90-180 days after disposal. Unlike plastic, they do not leave behind microplastics or other harmful pollutants.

How Long Do Ecosphere’s Bagasse Products Take to Decompose?

Typically, Ecosphere’s bagasse products start decomposing within 90-180 days after disposal, depending on environmental conditions. They break down naturally into compost, leaving no waste behind. This makes them an excellent choice for sustainable living.