Pakistan launches project to transform banana waste into textile fibre

2026-03-03 - 11:44

With the collaboration of development partners, Pakistan has launched an innovative project to transform banana waste into an eco-friendly textile fibre. The initiative, launched by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) with the collaboration of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and other partners, aimed to promote bio-economy and circular growth in the country. The project was formally introduced during an inception workshop on “Bananas in Pakistan’s Bio-economy: Transforming Waste into Textile” held on the sidelines of the flagship “Made in Pakistan – SME Cluster Showcase Expo 2026”. The project is part of the “Elimination of Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains Integrated Programme”, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and executed by UN agencies, with implementation partners selected across eight countries. Keeping in view the significance of climate-resilient initiatives, SMEDA will be the lead executing partner working alongside the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Sindh government, FAO and the National Textile University. Banana is cultivated over 40,000 hectares, and tonnes of its waste are discarded or burnt. Raw banana fibre will be extracted to make products related to textiles, handicrafts, bags, packaging, etc. The executing body will focus on pilot projects, technology transfer, training and capacity building, certification support, market linkages and development of traceability systems. Muhammad Ijaz Ghani, Senior Joint Secretary, MoCC&EC, described the project as inspirational and socially inclusive. He noted that the project had the potential to contribute to Pakistan’s largest export sector – textiles. He underscored the importance of addressing pollution and resource depletion while appreciating SMEDA’s leadership in advancing climate-friendly initiatives aligned with national priorities. He said projects like this were a great source of promoting the circular economy. Dr Julius, FAO Programme Coordinator and Provincial Head of Sindh, emphasised Sindh’s central role as the “epicentre of Pakistan’s banana economy”. He expressed concern over water intensity and post-harvest losses, with nearly 16% of bananas going to waste. He stressed the need for further research and ensuring that the voice of farmers remained central to project design and implementation. Ashfaq Ahmed, GM Microenterprise, SMEDA, described the project as a landmark collaboration between SMEDA and FAO. He commended the participants for their valuable inputs, which would help ensure effective execution of the project. He said the project aims to convert banana waste into fibre for textiles and other products, mitigating the adverse effects of pollution. It would also strengthen the value chain and create income-generating opportunities for small and medium enterprises of the country, he added. Punjab receives 16,000 applications for Global IT Certifications