Q: Who is Dr. Fatimatu Bello is?
A: Fatimatu Bello is a Ghanaian scientist and engineer who grew up in New Tafo-Akim, a small town in the Eastern Region of Ghana, West Africa.
She is the fourth of six children in her family and the only one who pursued a career in science and engineering. She is committed to environmental sustainability through reducing waste and carbon footprints, improving water quality systems, and addressing the environmental and health concerns associated with petroleum-based packaging materials. She is now working as a Research Fellow at Auburn University, USA.
Q: When we say Sustainability, what do we mean?
A: Sustainability can be defined as the idea of meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It involves making choices that ensure the health of our planet and society for years to come. This means living in a way that does not drain resources or harm the environment, allowing both people and nature to thrive together
Q: What are your key areas of interest in sustainable solutions research?
A: I specialize in bio-based products and sustainability, with a focus on packaging, water remediation, process design, and quality control. One area I am particularly interested in is combating plastic pollution through the use of renewable biobased polymers in developing biodegradable materials for sustainable packaging.
Q: What innovative technology have you or are you developing in your lab?
A: I have spearheaded the development of multi-functional biobased packaging materials with antioxidation and UV-barrier properties using materials from wood and agricultural residue. In this research, I and another team member applied a surface-sensitive technique known as quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) to study how biopolymers interact. Then we varied the composition of the polymers to see how they will impact the properties of the final composite materials and also provide ideas as to which other field materials can be applied. This research has been published online in one of the leading journals in the field: Journal of Food hydrocolloids. Please check it out.
Q: Why is Fatimatu’s research work significant?
A: My work is significant because it offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic plastic packaging, tackles plastic pollution, adds value to food and agro-industrial waste, and creates new opportunities in both the agricultural and packaging sectors. It also demonstrates how sustainable solutions can drive economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Q: How has the adoption of biodegradable packaging materials impacted the environment?
A: Biodegradable packaging helps reduce plastic pollution, as it breaks down naturally over time without leaving harmful residues. It also contributes to a lower carbon footprint, as the production of biodegradable materials typically involves less energy consumption and emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional plastic packaging. Additionally, it conserves non-renewable resources by reducing reliance on fossil fuels for production and aligns with circular economy principles by returning to the natural environment without causing harm.
Q: Are there any negative impacts associated with biodegradable packaging materials?
A: Yes, there are some economic impacts of using biodegradable packaging because the initial costs for materials, production, and equipment, are expensive, however, they are often balanced by long-term savings, including lower waste disposal costs, reduced transportation expenses from lighter materials, and greater production efficiency as operations scale up. Though biodegradable packaging is currently expensive than traditional plastic, the costs are expected to decrease as the market grows, with projections reaching $12.06 million by 2025 with a 17.04%. This shift creates opportunities for innovation, eco-friendly product development, and job creation in the biobased sector. With 55% of consumers concerned about environmental impact and willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, businesses adopting biodegradable options can see increased sales and stronger customer loyalty.
Q: What is necessary for maximizing the positive impacts of biodegradable packaging?
A: To maximize the positive impacts of biodegradable packaging adoption, a holistic approach is needed that considers the entire lifecycle of packaging materials. This includes proper waste management infrastructure, consumer education on disposal practices, and continued innovation in material science to develop truly sustainable solutions.
Q: How have countries responded to the need for sustainable packaging?
A: Many countries, particularly in Europe, North America, Japan, and China, have implemented legislation to regulate plastic bag usage. Over 35 nations are actively incentivizing the production, import, and use of biodegradable packaging materials. I believe that developing countries in Africa, including Ghana, can adopt similar strategies in the near future to help mitigate the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
Q: What message do you have for Ghanaians and the world regarding adapting to sustainable packaging
A: The adoption of sustainable packaging is crucial for our environmental future, and it requires a collective effort from consumers, businesses, and governments. For Ghanaians and people worldwide, the message is clear: we must embrace change by being open to new packaging alternatives, even if they differ from what we’re accustomed to. Sustainable options like biodegradable materials or reusable containers may look or feel different, but they play a vital role in reducing environmental impact.
It is essential to educate ourselves about the environmental impacts of different packaging materials and make informed choices. Understanding the lifecycle of packaging can help us make better decisions as consumers. Supporting sustainable initiatives is also important; we should choose products with eco-friendly packaging and support businesses that prioritize sustainability. Our purchasing decisions can drive market trends toward more environmentally responsible practices.
It is also important to consider the full picture of sustainability. Sustainable packaging is not just about the material used; it also involves reducing overall packaging use, minimizing food waste, and considering the entire lifecycle of products. Lastly, we must be patient and persistent in this transition. The shift to fully sustainable packaging solutions will take time, but we should stay committed to the cause and continue making environmentally conscious choices, even when it’s not always convenient. By adopting these practices and mindsets, Ghanaians and people worldwide can contribute to a more sustainable future, reducing plastic pollution and its harmful effects on our environment. Remember, every small action counts in the global effort to create a more sustainable world.
Q: It seems you have a lot on your plate, however, what do you do for fun
A: Outside of my busy schedule, I love to cook, watch soccer, read and watch movies
Thank you Dr. Fatimatu Bello for your time and insight on sustainability and sustainable solutions. It was a pleasure having you. Hope you talk to you on other groundbreaking research works in your lab.
