EARTH UNIVERSITY: CLOSED LOOP BANANA BAG TO BANANA PACKAGING

By Marcus Eriksen on January 19, 2012

At Earth University in Costa Rica, the 5 Gyres Institute spoke to the freshman class about plastic pollution. We were almost late for our lecture having to wait for thousands of bananas to roll through campus along a unique rail system that blocks roads temporarily. University president, Dr. Jose Zaglul, gave us a tour of the banana plantation that doubles as an agriculture classroom, employment for willing students, and fundraising for the school.

5 Gyres and blue plastic banannas from 5 Gyres on Vimeo.

"We try to do things in a different way that improves the agriculture industry," he explained. Instead of traditional pesticides, they use a blend of chiles and garlic to ward off insects. They still use blue plastic bags to cover the banana bunches, but unlike other plantations, they collect them and melt them to form pallets for packaging. Then remelt them again to make new pallets when they are worn.
"This whole river here was full of plastic," Dr. Zaglul explained. When the university started 23 years ago he made it his mission to clean up the river, and the plantation to clean up its act. "These plastic bags wind up in the ocean where they are ingested by turtles. They find plastic in their intestinal tract," he said, adding, "And we found a better way."

Earth University is an example of zero waste, while at the same time having a successful business. This is EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY at work. They have since built a strong relationship with Whole Foods Inc. So when you go to your local Whole Foods grocer and see "Earth University" label on bananas, you'll know you're supporting the right thing.