Technology Under Development: Leaf-Based, Moldable, Biodegradable Plastic

I have developed a means of converting farm and yard plant waste, namely leaves and grass clippings, into fully biodegradable plastic sheets and thermoplastic material. The conversion uses only small amounts of non-toxic, environmentally friendly chemicals and modest energy input and emits no pollutants. The benefits include: (1) carbon is captured for the life of the material, (2) the material is nontoxic and fully biodegradable, and (3) it substitutes for petroleum-based plastic. Petroleum-based plastic creates large amounts of greenhouse gas during production, is not renewable, and is typically not biodegradable. Leaf-based plastics avoid trash accumulation and food chain toxicity. This technology can be applied in connection to municipal yard waste collection and reuse.