From Waste to Wealth: Unlocking the Potential of Bangladesh’s Okra Fiber for Economic Prosperity

Bangladesh’s thriving okra cultivation sector annually yields substantial harvests, yet a significant portion of the plant remains underutilized after harvesting, posing as agricultural waste. This oversight neglects the economic potential of okra fiber, which is versatile and valuable across various industries. This paper explores this untapped potential by investigating the physico-mechanical properties, chemical treatments, and fabrication techniques of okra fiber, drawing from a wealth of research. Comparative analyses with established natural fibers like jute and sisal shed light on okra fiber’s transformative role in Bangladesh’s economic landscape. Along with the applications in the fashion world, meticulous investigation into its mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics uncovers inherent strengths and integration pathways into industrial applications. Strategies for optimizing yield and quality, including novel approaches like photo-grafting and protein extraction, are explored. Considerations for cytotoxicity and environmental sustainability ensure its viability as a green resource. This research aims to unlock okra fiber’s full potential, positioning Bangladesh for sustainable economic development and innovation.