SUSTAINABLE PAPER PRODUCTION: EVALUATING COGON GRASS AS A

SUSTAINABLE FIBER ALTERNATIVE FOR PAPER-MAKING

A Research Proposal

Presented to the

Faculty of Senior High School Department

ACLC College of Mandaue

Mandaue City

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2

Erejer, Adrian James

Gargar, Jia Rose

Inoc, Andrei Marc

Laquinon, Jinnefer

Matulac, Janrey

Nable, Carla Jean

Nachor, John Brexter Ravic

Navaja, Jeann Marie

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The researchers would like to express their gratitude to the following:

To our Practical Research teacher, Sir Joey Sasing, for his invaluable
guidance, unwavering support, and constant encouragement throughout the entire
research process. His expertise and insights have played a pivotal role in shaping the
direction of this study.

To the panelists for our defense, their constructive feedback and

thoughtful suggestions, which have significantly contributed to the refinement of our
work.

To our parents, for their endless love, encouragement, and

understanding. Their constant belief in our abilities provided the motivation we needed
to persevere and complete this research.

To our family and friends, for their unwavering support, patience, and for
always being there when we needed them the most. Their presence and
understanding made this journey more meaningful.

And, most importantly, to ourselves, for the hard work, determination,

and collaboration that allowed us to bring this research to fruition. We take pride in the
dedication and effort we invested in this project.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page i

Acknowledgements ii

Table of Contents iii

CHAPTER 1: THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Rationale 1

Background of the Study 3

Theoretical Framework 4

Conceptual Framework 5

Statement of the Problem 6

Statement of the Null Hypothesis 6

Significance of the Study 6

Definition of Terms 7

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES 8

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 13

Research Design 13

Research Environment 13

Sampling Technique 14

Research Instrument 14

Data Gathering Procedures 15

Ethical Considerations 19

References 21
 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Rationale

In recent years, paper consumption has stood out as one of the world's
most pressing environmental issues. In fact, according to Statistica Research
Department (2024), the global consumption of paper and cardboard was
approximately 414.19 million metric tons in 2022—an increase when compared with
the previous year. The global consumption of paper and paperboard has increased
almost 75 percent, relative to 1990 levels. Additionally, according to Aydin (2022),
there are 300 million tons of paper produced in the world annually. For that production,
4 billion trees are cut down each year to make paper. This reliance on wood pulp for
paper production leads to deforestation and habitat loss.

According to the Climate Change Commission (2024), in the

Philippines, a total of 1.42 million hectares of tree cover was lost from 2001 to 2022,
representing a 7.6% decrease in our total tree cover of approximately 18.684 million
hectares. Furthermore, as of 2022 Philippine Forestry Statistics, it is estimated that
the country has a total forest cover of 7.22 million hectares, or 24.07% of the country’s
land mass, which is “way below” the 17.8 million hectares worth of forest cover we had
back in 1934. The enormous amount of paper consumed each year highlights the
tremendous loss of forestland over time and the severity of the deforestation crisis.
The huge number of trees necessary to supply this demand reveals a deeply
concerning trend.

Due to the growing global need for paper, along with environmental
concerns about traditional wood-pulp manufacturing, it is necessary to explore new
sustainable alternatives for paper-making. This study investigates the viability of cogon
grass (Imperata cylindrica) as a sustainable fiber source for paper manufacturing.
Imperata cylindrica is a type of perennial rhizomatous grass species that is native to
tropical and subtropical countries, such as Japan, China, and the Philippines (Bonnia
et al., 2018). According to a Commonwealth of Virginia website (2021), cogon grass is
an aggressively invasive perennial grass that grows 1 to 6 feet in height. It typically
occurs in leaning mats when over 3 feet tall. Long, yellow-green leaves with light, off-
center midveins arise from near the base of the plant, with a short, usually hidden
stem.

According to "Cogon Grass as an Alternative Fiber for Pulp and Paper-

Based Industry: On Chemical and Surface Morphological Properties" by Kassim et al.
(2015), the study analyzes the chemical and morphological properties of cogon grass,
concluding that it is a promising alternative fiber source for paper production.
Furthermore, another article by Kassim et al., published in the Journal of Engineering
and Applied Sciences in 2016, investigates the chemical composition, fiber
dimensions, pulp, and mechanical properties of cogon grass for paper production,
concluding that it is a viable alternative fiber source.

Previous research has demonstrated that cogon grass has

advantageous qualities for paper-making, such as its high cellulose content, rapid
growth rate, and abundance. Nevertheless, there is a substantial gap regarding the
evaluation of the properties of cogon grass-derived paper, including its strength, tear
resistance, smoothness, and printability. Knowing these characteristics will help
identify the best uses for cogon grass paper, such as writing paper, tissue paper, or
packaging. Furthermore, as cogon grass is a renewable resource, it is important to
evaluate its sustainability and environmental impact. To guarantee long-term survival,
this study should also investigate sustainable cogon grass harvesting and
management techniques.

This study seeks to explore the viability of cogon grass as a renewable

fiber source for manufacturing paper. This will examine the physical characteristics of
cogon grass fiber, determining its appropriateness for paper production methods and
evaluating the environmental impact of this alternative. The results of this study will
aid in creating a more sustainable paper industry and provide a possible answer to the
environmental issues caused by traditional paper production.
Background of the Study

The ordinary paper industry's a significant dependency on wood

causes deforestation, which raises carbon emissions and affects biodiversity.
Consequently, the World Wildlife Fund, improper harvesting of natural forests for
production of pulp and paper may harm species and fragile ecological systems. In
addition to using dangerous chemicals that may harm soil, water, and air, wood is also
converted into paper. Significant amounts of energy and water are also needed for the
production of wood-based paper, which reduces supplies and raises prices. The
investigation of sustainable and alternative materials for paper manufacture is crucial
due to the economic and environmental challenges (Gupta, G.K., et al 2019).

Cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) forms a dense mat and produces

plenty of leaves that make it nearly impossible for other plants to coexist. It can invade
and overtake disturbed ecosystems by displacing a large variety of native plant
species. It is a very strong competitor for water, nutrients and light because it sprouts
and grows faster than most crops (Sherley, 2000). Cogon grass fibre are strong
and studies have shown that cogon grass can be turned into paper with qualities
comparable to those of conventional wood-based paper. It's accessibility in many
places, particularly tropical ones, makes it an appealing option for sustainable, locally
produced paper. (Ishak, 2015).

Cogon grass has a number of ecological advantages when used as a

paper fibre. First of all, it lessens the need for trees, preserving forests and wildlife. In
some places, cogon grass is considered as an aggressive species, therefore using it
to make paper can help manage and limit its spread. The usage of cogon grass may
also lessen the need for dangerous processing chemicals, which could result in a less
polluting papermaking process.

This study aims to fill these gaps by determining cogon grass as a

potential substitute for fibre. Assessing the quality of paper made from cogon grass,
contrasting its effects on the environment and the economy with those of conventional
wood-based paper, and investigating its potential to support more environmentally
friendly paper production methods are the targets.
Theoretical Framework

This investigation was supported by the Stress-Strain Properties of

Paper and Page's Theory of Tensile Strength by Derek Page. In the realm of paper
science, Page's Theory of Tensile Strength and the Stress-Strain Properties of Paper
is regarded as a foundational work that specifically addresses the crucial component
of tensile strength. Page's hypothesis, which stems from an article published in the
Tappi Journal in 1969, offers a sophisticated understanding of how the tensile strength
of paper is determined by fiber and inter-fiber bond characteristics.

The theory sheds light on the variables influencing tensile strength by

providing a qualitative explanation of these interactions. Derek Page's work cleared
the path for additional research, despite his acknowledgment of the theory's semi-
empirical nature and worries about its widespread use. In their later study, Page and
Raj Seth investigated the intricate relationships between network architectures, fiber
characteristics, and inter-fiber.

Additionally, the theory of Life Cycle Assessment: Theory and

Practice by Michael Z. Hauschild et.al, 2018. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a
systematic analysis of environmental impact over the course of the entire life cycle of
a product, material, process, or other measurable activity. LCA models the
environmental implications of the many interacting systems that make up industrial
production. When accurately performed, it can provide valuable data that decision-
makers can use in support of sustainability initiatives. LCA makes it possible to directly
compare the environmental effects of Cogon Grass paper with those of conventional
paper, giving researchers the ability to pinpoint both possible advantages and
disadvantages for the environment.

LCA measures the emissions (pollutants, greenhouse gases) and

resource consumption (land, energy, and water) related to each step of the
papermaking process. This gives a comprehensive picture of each material's
environmental impact.
Conceptual Framework

Alternative for Paper-

Cogon Grass
Making

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework

Figure 1 presents the conceptual framework of the study. It consists of

two variables, cogon grass as the independent variable and alternative for paper-
making as the dependent variable.

In Figure 1, 'cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica)' as an independent

variable, grows all around in the Philippines. It is widely accessible throughout the year

and is renowned for its enormous spread over wide distances. Traditionally, this

species has been utilized for roofing, while it is less frequently used as ruminant fodder

during dry spells (Samson & Capistrano, 1982). Its low digestibility if grazed or

harvested at a time when its cell wall becomes substantially lignified, and subsequently

low voluntary intake, may limit its usage as animal feed.

Another variable, 'alternative for paper-making' refers to processes and

materials that can be used to make products similar to paper but without using
traditional paper production.
Statement of the Problem

The main objective of this study was to evaluate Cogon Grass (Imperata
Cylindrica) as a substitute fiber for traditional paper-making. Given its fast growth,
abundance, and invasive nature, Cogon grass presents a sustainable solution to
address the increasing demand for raw materials in the paper industry.

Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What are the physical properties of Cogon grass fibers that make them suitable for
paper-making?

2. How does the use of sodium hydroxide (lye or caustic soda) in processing Cogon
grass fibers for paper-making?

3. Can Cogon grass be a substitute to traditionally manufactured paper in terms of

performance, sustainability, and environmental impact?

Statement of the Null Hypothesis

The main goal of this study is to conduct a carefully analysis of the

following hypothesis.

H0 There is no significant difference in the physical properties (e.g., tensile strength,

tear resistance, brightness) of paper made from Cogon grass fibers compared to paper
made from traditional wood pulp fibers.

H0 The use of sodium hydroxide in processing Cogon grass fibers for papermaking
does not significantly affect the sustainability or environmental impact of the resulting
paper compared to traditionally manufactured paper.

Signifance of the Study

The utilization of cogon grass in paper production offers significant

benefits to various sectors. To begin with, paper manufacturers can adopt cogon grass
as a sustainable, cost-effective, and abundant alternative to wood pulp, thereby
promoting more environmentally friendly practices. Addtionally, this study will
encourage the government to promote the production of paper from cogon grass that
has accessible materials and simple procedures to execute it. Futhermore, consumers
benefit by supporting products that not only reduce the need for deforestation but also
provide stronger and more durable paper. In addtion, this study will help solve a major
problem in the environment that is partially caused by making paper from wood, which
is deforestation. This minor solution can be a major aid to global problems. Moreover,
farmers gain a new source of income by harvesting and processing cogon grass into
paper, creating economic opportunities in rural areas. Similarly, students can benefit
significantly by producing cogon grass paper themselves, enabling them to save
money on educational supplies. Lastly, researchers can build on the findings of this
study to further explore the potential of cogon grass in paper-making, thereby
advancing innovations in sustainable materials.

Definitions of Terms

To facilitate the understanding on this study, the following terms are

further defined conceptually:

Cogon Grass

A type of perennial grass (Imperata cylindrica) commonly found in tropical and

subtropical regions, being explored as a sustainable and renewable alternative fiber
source for paper-making due to its availability and fiber properties.

Deforestation

Deforestation is the process of clearing large areas of forests by cutting down trees,
often the purpose of raw materials extra tion.

Inter-Fiber Bond Characteristics

The properties of connections between individual fibers within the paper network,
which significantly influence the overall strength, flexibility, and durability of the paper.
Paper-Making

The process of transforming cellulose fibers into paper. This involves pulping (breaking
down the fibers), refining (treating the fibers), sheet formation (creating a paper sheet),
pressing (removing water), and drying. Traditional paper-making relies heavily on
wood pulp, but alternative fiber sources are increasingly being explored to reduce
reliance on trees.

Pulp

A slurry of cellulose fibers obtained by mechanically or chemically processing plant

materials. The type of pulp (mechanical, chemical, or a combination) influences the
paper's properties, such as strength, smoothness, and brightness.

Stress-Strain Properties of Paper

The mechanical characteristics of paper that describe its behavior under applied
forces, particularly its ability to withstand tension or stretching without breaking. These
properties are essential for assessing the durability and quality of paper.

Sustainability

The principle of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. It involves maintaining ecological balance,
minimizing resource depletion, and ensuring long-term viability. Sustainability is the
core concept driving the exploration of cogon grass as a fiber alternative for paper
production.

Sustainable Paper Production

Refers to the process of creating paper products in an environmentally responsible

manner, utilizing renewable or alternative resources to reduce ecological impact while
maintaining the efficiency and quality of production.

Tear Resistance

A measure of a material’s ability to withstand tearing forces without breaking. Tear

resistance is a critical quality metric for paper, affecting its usability for various
applications, including packaging, writing, and printing. This study evaluates the tear
resistance of cogon grass-derived paper to determine its potential uses.
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

There were three journals, used in this discussion, that studied the
capabilities of Imperata cylindrica, also known as cogon plant or cogongrass, as an
alternative source for pulp and paper production. In the study of Sharma et al. (2018),
grass species, including Imperata cylindrica, were tested for their capacities as an
alternative for paper and pulp production. These grass species were also compared
to Bambusa tulda, a bamboo species in India for pulp and paper making. In the study
of Kassim et al. (2015), the chemical properties and surface morphological properties
of were analyzed and compared to other n Imperata cylindrica on-wood plants. Lastly,
in the study of Kassim et al., (2016), chemical compositions, pulping and pulping
properties, morphological characteristics, and surface morphology of I. cylindrica were
analyzed and tested.

Cogon grass had 5.67% lignin content (low), 8.24% ash (high), and
3.83% hot water solubility (low) (Kassim et al., 2016). For the holocellulose, cellulose
and 1% NaOH solubility, Imperata cylindrica had acceptable values of 64.9%, 37.1%
and 19.6% respectively. The same results were also measured in the study of Kassim
et al. (2015). Low lignin amount is preferable for paper and pulp production as lignin
is an undesired polymer that should be removed since it affects the pulping process
and bleaching process of the material. Moreover, lignin affects the quality of the paper
and it causes yellowing of the paper products. For hot water solubility, cogon grass
had a low value. A high value of hot water solubility indicates that the material contains
a high content of tannins, gums, sugar, colouring and starch that could affect the
quality of the pulp and paper product. For 1% NaOH solubility, cogon grass had a low
value percentage. This means that a low amount of fibre will be disintegrated in the
pulping process that will result in high pulp yield. Holocellulose and cellulose determine
whether a material is suitable for paper production. The ideal holocellulose percentage
for an alternative fibre should be 65% to 75% of the plant dry weight. With the results
which is 64.9%, cogongrass, can be an alternative fibre (Kassim et al., 2015). For
cellulose, cogongrass has a high content which indicates that it can be an alternative
fibre for pulp and paper production (Kassim et al., 2015).

High content of cellulose produces a high quality and strong paper

product. Table 1 and Table 2 shows the results of cogongrass in the study of Kassim
et al. (2016) and Kassim et al. (2015), respectively.

Table 1. Comparison of chemical compositions of I. cylindrica with published non-wood

Table 2. The chemical compositions of cogon grass and other published non-wood
and wood fibers

Table 3. Comparison of fibre dimensions of the I. cylindrica with other non-wood fibre
Table 4. Dimensions of fibrous and non-fibrous cells of selected grass species

Fibre length, fibre diameter, fibre lumen diameter and fibre wall thickness
accounts the quality of a material in tearing resistance, pulp beating, bursting, tensile
strength and folding endurance (Sharma et al., 2018). Table 4 and 5 shows that
Imperata cylindrica had a high fibre length which makes it suitable for pulp and paper
production as it resulted in the highest tensile index and burst index.

Runkel ratio is the ratio of the fibre wall thickness to the fibre lumen
diameter. For Inperata cylindrica, the Runkel ratio was between 0.5 to 0.95 (Sharma
et al., 2018). A value of less than 1 is suitable for pulp and paper production.

The ratio of fibre lumen diameter to fibre diameter determines the

flexibility of the material. Cogongrass had a ratio between 50-64, which was
considered as elastic. The material can be flattened easily to have high strength of
pulp and paper (Sharma, et al., 2018).

The slenderness ratio is determined by long fibres. The I. cylindrica had

a slenderness ratio of 138 (Sharma, et al., 2018). A value more than 33 is preferable
for pulp and paper production.

The vessel length and vessel diameter of cogongrass were found to be

short and small. This is preferable for paper and pulp production as long vessels with
large diameter result in vessel picking (Sharma et al., 2018).
 According to the Environmental Protection Agency, paper can be made
through a variety of different sources such as cotton, wheat straw, bamboo, wood, etc.
but regardless of which base product source, the most important ingredient that builds
a paper is fiber with wood or recycled paper products as the two main sources. The
following parts will be the different comparison between cogon plant and other sources
namely, wood and recycled paper.

Fiber is the most important content present in the composition of paper.

In order to fully analyze and differentiate the structure and composition of the two
sources, shown below are the different structural fiber compositions of cogon based
paper and wood or the timber based paper.

Fiber composition of Cogon Plant. Fiber composition of wood.

Based on the following figures it can be seen that the structural

composition of the fibers in cogon plants are longer, more fine with one or two thicker
strands, and composed, while for the wood are a combination of thin and thick, short
and long strands of fiber with small spaces in between. According to Brandberg et.al,
one of the effects of fiber content among any type of paper is its ability to withstand its
environment, such as temperature, making it vulnerable and easily crumpled or even
shrinking. Long strands depict the strength of the paper while short strands are for
printing capacity. Cellulose fibers are the said fibers that can be seen in the
composition of both base products. It is a predominant fiber capable of interfiber
bonding (Johannsen, 2013). Through the following figures, the similarity and
composition between a widely used type of source product in comparison to that of
the cogon grass yields a better understanding as to how the use of cogon grass as an
alternative in manufacturing paper can be effective and be utilized the same as that of
the wood based paper.
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter deals with the procedures and methods that will be use in
the study. This chapter presents the Research Design, Research Environment,
Sampling Technique, Research Instrument, Data Gathering Procedure, and Ethical
Considerations.

Research Design

A quasi-experimental research approach will be used in this project to

assess cogon grass's potential as a sustainable substitute fiber for the paper industry.
This strategy is the most feasible and economical for real-world applications, utilizing
current cogon grass cultivars and papermaking techniques. This study uses an
experimental research approach to evaluate cogon grass as a sustainable fiber
alternative for papermaking. Quantitative data will be collected in order to assess
sustainability parameters and paper qualities. The study measures important paper
qualities (strength, smoothness, and printability) and analyzes the data using lab-
based procedures to look at the physical features of paper.

Research Environment

The research evaluating cogon grass as a sustainable paper fiber

alternative, will be conducted at ACLC College of Mandaue's campus on M.C. Briones
Street in Mandaue City, Cebu, in the school's existing facilities. The study's scope will
be constrained by the resources available on campus. The school laboratory,
equipped with basic tools, will serve as the primary location for the experimental work.
This means the processing of cogon grass into pulp and the subsequent papermaking
will occur on a small scale, limited by the available equipment. The type and capacity
of this equipment will directly influence the study's methodology and the quantity of
paper that can be produced for testing. The classrooms will provide the space for data
analysis, statistical calculations, literature review, and the writing of the research
report. The geographical location in Mandaue City, Cebu, will also influence factors
such as the accessibility of cogon grass sources.

Sampling Technique

In this study, since there are no respondents and the focus is on testing
paper made from cogon grass, the sampling process involved selecting paper sheets
from different batches produced during the experiment.

Paper sheets were made in different batches after the cogon grass fibres
were harvested and processed, each batch representing the various environmental
conditions of the grass (e.g., clay, sandy, and loamy soils). A certain amount of paper
sheets were selected at random for testing from each batch. Important features like
strength, texture, absorbency, and durability were examined for these samples. The
study make sure that the results were typical of the various cogon grass growth
conditions by choosing paper from each batch, providing a clear picture of the plant's
potential as a sustainable fibre for papermaking. Without using excessive amounts of
resources, this method made it possible to conduct a targeted and useful examination
of the paper's strengths.

Research Instrument

The instrument that will be use in this study is an observation sheet,

which served as the primary tool for systematically documenting findings during the
experimental process. The observation sheet will provide a structured and organized
method for recording key aspects of the experiment, ensuring accuracy and
consistency in data collection.
 As the researchers will conduct experiments to evaluate cogon grass as
a sustainable fiber alternative for paper production, the observation sheet will facilitate
detailed monitoring at each stage of the process. This include steps such as pulping,
sheet formation, pressing, and drying. The sheet is designed to capture critical
parameters such as the texture, color, and uniformity of the pulp; the thickness, weight,
and tensile strength of the paper; and the overall appearance of the final product.

Data Gathering Procedures

The researchers will provide enough time and effort in conducting the
experiment. The experiment will be done using suitable materials and procedures
that will aid in determining the viability of Cogon Grass as an alternative fiber in
paper production.

MATERIALS NEEDED FOR THE EXPERIMENT:

• Cogon Grass (Imperata cylindrica)

• Caustic Soda (Sodium Hydroxide)

• Water

• Wooden or plastic pulp molds (optional for shaping)

• Large mixing container or basin

• Blender or pulping equipment

• Sieve or mesh for draining

• Rolling pin or press (for smoothing)

• Sponges or towels (for drying)

• Rubber gloves (for handling caustic soda safely)

• Plastic containers or trays (for soaking)

STEP BY STEP PROCESS

Step 1: Harvesting and Preparing Cogon Grass

The first step will be to harvest mature cogon grass, which will be cut into smaller
pieces, typically about 4-6 inches in length.

Materials: Cogon grass

Step 2: Soaking the Cogon Grass

The cut cogon grass will be soaked in water for 24-48 hours to soften it. This process
will help break down the fibers and make them more manageable for pulping.

Materials: Water, plastic containers/trays

The grass will be placed in a container filled with water, fully submerging it. It will be
left to soak for 2-3 hours.

Step 3: Preparing the Caustic Soda Solution

Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) will be dissolved in water to create a solution that
will break down the cellulose fibers during the boiling process. Caution will be
necessary when handling caustic soda, as it is highly corrosive.

Materials: Caustic soda, water

The caustic soda will be mixed into water (approximately 4 tablespoons per liter of
water) in a separate container. It will be stirred carefully until the soda dissolves
completely

Step 4: Boiling the Grass with Caustic Soda

The soaked cogon grass will be added to the caustic soda solution and boiled. This
process, known as "digestion," will break down the lignin and other non-cellulose
components in the grass, leaving behind the cellulose fibers.
Materials: Caustic soda solution, cogon grass

The soaked grass will be placed in the caustic soda solution and brought to a boil. It
will be simmered for 1-2 hours, with occasional stirring, until the fibers begin to
separate.

Step 5: Rinsing

After boiling, the fibers will need to be rinsed to remove any remaining caustic soda
and neutralize the solution. This will prevent the caustic soda from damaging the
paper fibers.

The solution will be drained, and the pulp will be rinsed under running water until the
water runs clear. A sieve or mesh will be used to help drain the pulp.

Step 6: Blending the Pulp

The softened and rinsed fibers will be blended into a smooth pulp. This will ensure
that the fibers are evenly distributed and ready for paper formation.

Materials: Blender or pulping equipment, water

The pulp will be placed in a blender with water (approximately 2-3 cups of water per
batch). It will be blended until a smooth, paste-like consistency is achieved.

Step 7: Forming the Paper Sheet

The pulp will then be spread on a mold to form a sheet of paper. This process is
essential to shaping the paper and ensuring that it is even and thin.

Materials: Pulp, mold, water

The blended pulp will be poured into a basin of water. A mold will be dipped into the
water to scoop up the pulp, which will then be evenly spread on the mold to form a
thin layer.
Step 8: Pressing and Drying

After the pulp is formed into a sheet, excess water will need to be removed, and the
paper will be pressed to smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets.

Materials: Rolling pin or press, towels/sponges

The pulp will be pressed to remove excess water using a sponge or a rolling pin. The
sheet will be placed on a flat surface to dry, either in the sun or under a fan.

Step 9: Drying the Paper

The paper will need to dry completely to harden into a usable form. This may take
several hours depending on environmental conditions such as humidity and
temperature.

The paper will be left to dry in a warm, dry area. It will take several hours to fully dry,
after which it will be firm and ready to use.

By following these steps to create paper from cogon grass, it will allow
us to interpret the data collected during the paper-making process and draw
conclusions about its effectiveness as an alternative material.

The data gathered throughout the process will enable the researchers to
interpret the results and determine how effective this method is compared to traditional
paper production. If the results demonstrate that cogon grass paper is a viable
alternative in terms of cost and quality, this method could contribute to more
sustainable paper production practices globally.
Ethical Considerations

The ethical production of paper from cogon grass necessitates a

comprehensive assessment of its environmental impact. This includes a detailed life
cycle analysis comparing it to traditional paper production methods. Key areas of
concern are the potential effects on biodiversity, water resource consumption, soil
health, and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable harvesting practices must be
implemented to minimize disruption to ecosystems and ensure the long-term viability
of cogon grass as a resource. The overall goal is to determine if cogon grass paper
offers genuine environmental benefits.

Equally important are the social and economic implications. Ethical

sourcing and production must prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring safe working
conditions and equitable compensation for workers involved in harvesting and
processing. The economic viability of cogon grass paper production should benefit
local communities without displacing existing industries or creating economic
inequalities. Transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain are crucial for
building consumer trust and ensuring responsible practices.

Beyond environmental and socioeconomic factors, the ethical

considerations surrounding cogon grass paper production also encompass issues of
land rights and access. Harvesting should not infringe upon the rights of indigenous
communities or other stakeholders with legitimate claims to the land. Free, prior, and
informed consent (FPIC) should be obtained from affected communities, ensuring their
participation in decision-making processes and equitable benefit-sharing
arrangements. Furthermore, the potential for unintended consequences, such as the
displacement of traditional land uses or the disruption of local ecological balances,
needs careful consideration and mitigation strategies. Transparency in land
management and resource allocation is crucial for maintaining ethical and sustainable
practices.
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 Curriculum Vitae of the Researchers

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Adrian James Erejer

Age: 18

Date of Birth: April 9, 2006

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Non-Catholic

Address: Tayud, Liloan, Cebu

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Maguikay, Mandaue, Cebu

: S.Y. 2023-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Arcelo MNHS

: San Vicente, Yati, Liloan,

: S.Y. 2022-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Bilwang Elementary School

: Bilwang, Isabel, Leyte

: S.Y. 2012-2018
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Jia Rose Gargar

Age: 18

Date of Birth: November 13, 2006

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Roman Catholic

Address: Sector 2, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y. 2023-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Doong National High School

: Doong, Bantayan, Cebu

: S.Y. 2019-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Luyongbaybay Elementary School

: Luyongbaybay, Bantayan, Cebu

: S.Y. 2012-2019
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Marc Andrei T. Inoc

Age:18

Date of Birth: October 18, 2006

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Catholic

Address: Tolotolo, Nangka 2

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue

City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Tolo-tolo National Highschool

: Tolo-tolo Nangka

: S.Y. 2018-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Ibabao Istancia Elementary School

: Ibabao Mandaue City

: S.Y. 2012-2018
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Jinnefer Laquinon

Age: 18

Date of Birth: March 10, 2006

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Roman Catholic

Address: Pulpogan 1 Consolacion

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Consolacion National Highschool-DC

: Poblacion Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y.2018-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Consolacion Central School Cebu

: Pob. Occ., Consolacion, Cebu

: S.Y. 2012-2018
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Janrey O. Matulac

Age: 20

Date of Birth: January 12, 2005

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: MCGI

Address: Pob. Occ. Consolacion Cebu

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue City

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL. : Consolacion National High School

: Poblacion Oriental Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y. 2018- 2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. : Cansaga Elementary School

: Poblacion Occidental Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y. 2009-2015
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Carla Jean Nable

Age:17

Date of Birth: October 8, 2007

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Roman Catholic

Address: Tugbongan Consolacion Cebu

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Tugbongan National Highschool

: Tugbongan Ibabaw Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y. 2018-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Nangka Elementary School

:Purok 1 Nangka Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y. 2012-2018
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: John Brexter Ravic M. Nachor

Age: 17

Date of Birth: June 24, 2007

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Roman Catholic

Address: Tabok Mandaue City

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Tabok National High School

: Tabok Mandaue City

: S.Y. 2018- 2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Tabok Elementary School 1

: Tabok Mandaue City

: S.Y. 2012-2018
PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name: Jeann Marie Navaja

Age:17

Date of Birth: October 2, 2007

Citizenship: Filipino

Religion: Roman Catholic

Address: Pob. Occ. Consolacion Cebu

Civil Status: Single

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL : ACLC College of Mandaue

: Highway, Maguikay, Mandaue City

: S.Y 2024-2025

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL : Consolacion National Highschool-EC

: Poblacion Oriental Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y.2018-2023

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL : Consolacion Central School

: Poblacion Occidental Consolacion Cebu

: S.Y. 2012-2018