Ecological Implications

The abaca-reinforced composites offer an eco-friendly material for many industrial applications with the same strength and qualities as provided by synthetic fibers or glass fibers. The excellent example is provided by the use of abaca composites in car manufacturing by Chrysler-Daimler. Moreover, the production of these fiber composites is energy-efficient as it has been found to save 60 % energy besides reducing CO2 emissions. Moreover, abaca plantations have been used to prevent soil erosion and in promoting biodiversity rehabilitation by intercropping abaca plants in monoculture plantations or rainforests. Waste material produced from abaca plants is also used as organic fertilizers to replenish the soil fertility.