Argao, Cebu. Look. | BSES stud explore seaweed-based bioplastic film at BENRC.
Under the GAA Tier 1-funded project led by Dr. Rosalyn P. Alburo, selected incoming sophomore and junior Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSES) students from Cebu Technological University–Argao Campus participated in a one-day training focused on exploring seaweed-based bioplastic film development at the Biodiversity, Environment, and Natural Resources Research Center (BENRC) on June 11, 2026.
Facilitated by Jude Thaddeus B. Rojo, a chemist and one of BENRC’s science research assistants, the training aimed to impart knowledge and hands-on experience in bioplastic research methodologies, testing parameters, and sustainable agriculture applications through lectures and demonstrations.
According to Rojo, seaweed-based bioplastics offer several advantages over conventional plastics due to the presence of natural polymers, such as alginate, carrageenan, ulvan, agar, and other polysaccharides that can be utilized for film formation. Seaweed is also abundant, fast-growing, and does not compete with food sources unlike starch-rich terrestrial crops. Moreover, as agricultural lands continue to decline due to modernization and urban expansion, seaweed cultivation presents a sustainable alternative since it does not require arable land.
“These qualities position seaweed as a sustainable and efficient raw material for biodegradable plastics, offering an alternative to petroleum-based products while easing pressure on land and food systems,” he added.
Although not familiar with seaweed-based bioplastic film prior to the training, student-participants revealed being aware of biodegradable plastics but have no clue on the potential of seaweed as an alternative to conventional plastics.
“(The training) showed me how we can use marine resources to solve environmental pollution. It truly opened my eyes to how we can better protect our planet,” says June Bert Beldad, an outgoing BSES 2 student. Likewise, another participant named Threxie Mae L. Alburo expressed appreciation to the said training.
“It was hands-on because, guided by Sir Jude, we were able to experience the actual process of making bioplastic from seaweed. As an Environmental Science student, this helped me better understand how scientific knowledge can be applied to create practical solutions for environmental problems.”
The research project, “Development of Bioplastic Mulching Film and Pots from Seaweeds,” was approved for GAA-Tier 1 Funding this year and is currently being implemented by the Biodiversity, Environment and Natural Resources Research Center (BENRC) under the leadership of Center Director Rosalyn P. Alburo. Recent training and development activities supported the project’s goal of creating biodegradable, low-carbon bioplastics from seaweeds as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. |
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