Six Omani students have developed a prototype that converts fish waste into biopolymers, offering a potential alternative to conventional plastics. The project supports Oman’s national “Zero Plastic” goals and aligns with the environmental sustainability targets outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

The team, consisting of Elyas bin Juma al Subaihi, Yusra bint Khamis bin Saeed al Hinaiyah, Mai bint Abdullah bin Ali al Shamsiyah, Zulfa bint Zayed al Saririyah, Balqis bint Salem al Hashmiyah, and Mazoon al Jabri, are Marine Engineering Technology students at Al Khaboura Vocational College.

They say the innovation could help turn discarded fish materials into valuable biopolymers, creating both environmental and economic benefits for the fisheries sector.

According to the students, fish skin, scales and bones contain proteins and compounds that can be processed into biodegradable and non-toxic biopolymers. Other waste components, including internal organs, can also be used to produce materials such as collagen, chitin and keratin, all of which have applications in food packaging, agriculture and medical products.

“Not only that, there are multiple biopolymers produced through this conversion that can be applied across a wide range of fields,” said Yusra. “For example, collagen can be used in biomedical applications and food packaging, while chitin and chitosan have proven value in agriculture, medical uses, and packaging.”

Keratin extracted through the process can be used in textiles and personal care products. Researchers internationally have produced biodegradable films and packaging materials from fish waste, demonstrating their potential for use in food and clothing packaging.

“By utilizing fish waste, we are reducing the total waste generated in the country while converting it into valuable materials that support a circular economy,” the team said, noting that biodegradable biopolymers could significantly reduce pollution linked to traditional plastics.