What a Banana Peel can tell us about the Future

Imagine walking into a store in the future, where all the packaging is intelligent and self-regulating. The products are wrapped in packaging that only opens when it is ready to be used,, and changes color to indicate when the product is past its prime. The packaging is biodegradable and even edible.

Sounds like science fiction?

It's not science fiction, it's just a banana peel. Truth is, nature is a superpower when it comes to advanced engineering and smart designs. The humble banana peel is a great example of this, as it has features such as advanced moisture control that keeps the banana at the perfect ripeness, even under extreme conditions. It also serves as a natural labelling system, signaling when the banana is ready to be eaten.

Nature is full of patterns and advanced mathematics, from the spiral patterns found in the shells of sea creatures to the fractal patterns found in trees and rivers. The banana peel is no exception. This seemingly simple outer layer holds a complex network of fibers that form a sophisticated geometric pattern. It serves as a natural moisture-regulation system, keeping the banana at the perfect ripeness even under extreme conditions. It also functions as a signaling system, indicating when the banana is ready to be eaten.

Pioneers in material sciences are already developing technology derived from living organisms or natural sources, such as plants and animals. Bioplastics, for example, are made from materials such as corn starch, sugarcane, and even banana peels. Another example is the creation of high-performance athletic wear that mimic the properties of spider silk. This ultra-strong and lightweight material is one of the most advanced fibers in the world. Spider silk can stretch up to five times its original length without breaking. Imagine using spider silk to design a running shoe that is ultra lightweight, flexible and durable, while providing the same level of support and protection as traditional materials.

Nature has had 300 million years of experience that we have ignored for too long. So, next time you peel a banana, take a moment to appreciate the engineering and intelligence that went into its design. Keep an eye out for products that harness the superpowers of nature to bring out the superpowers in you.