EterniTea

Transforming Tea Waste into Sustainable Packaging Solution through Material Innovation

This study delves into the utilization of wasted tea leaves as a sustainable raw material for product design, aiming to address the urgent need for waste reduction and environmental sustainability within the context of a circular economy. Grounded in the rich cultural background of tea and the current issues surrounding food waste, particularly tea waste, this research explores the potential of repurposing tea waste into valuable resources for various industries. By employing a comprehensive methodological approach that includes research design, data collection, and analysis, the study investigates the lifecycle of tea—from cultivation to disposal—highlighting the opportunities for converting tea waste into sustainable materials. It examines the unique properties of wasted tea leaves, such as natural colorants, texture, and fragrance, and their potential applications in sustainable packaging, home decor, and furniture. The research findings emphasize the environmental benefits of diverting tea waste from landfills and the aesthetic and functional potentials of recycled tea leaf materials, proposing feasible methods for their creation and use. By integrating the cultural significance of tea with innovative design approaches, this study not only contributes to the circular economy but also promotes the development of novel, eco-friendly materials. The study concludes with an analysis of the outcomes, acknowledging limitations and assessing the environmental, social, and economic impacts, while suggesting directions for future research.