Research Innovation “Upcycling Banana Trunks into Fashion Enterprise: ITDO Model” Wins NRCT Special Award and Gold Medal at the 2026 Japan Design, Idea and Invention Expo (JDIE 2026) in Japan

The research innovation “Upcycling Banana Trunks into Fashion Enterprise: ITDO Model” has received the prestigious NRCT Special Award and a Gold Medal at the 2026 Japan Design, Idea and Invention Expo (JDIE 2026), an international exhibition and competition showcasing outstanding research, innovations, designs, and inventions held in Osaka, Japan.

This achievement represents another remarkable milestone that reflects the research and innovation capabilities of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University on the international stage. It highlights the University's commitment to advancing creative solutions that integrate academic knowledge, technology, innovation, and community development to achieve sustainable outcomes.

The research innovation focuses on increasing the value of banana trunks, an agricultural waste material, by applying the concept of Upcycling to develop value-added materials and fashion products. The innovation is based on the ITDO Model, a comprehensive development framework that connects research, innovation, design, and community entrepreneurship. This model aims to transform local resources into valuable products that generate income, create economic value, and support sustainable development within communities.

This innovation demonstrates the integration of knowledge from engineering, industrial technology, and creative design to develop environmentally friendly products, reduce agricultural waste, and promote efficient resource utilization in accordance with the principles of the Circular Economy. Furthermore, it contributes to strengthening the foundation of local economies and enhancing the capabilities of community enterprises, enabling them to develop competitive products that can successfully reach international markets.

The research innovation was developed by:

Assistant Professor Dr. Panu Pattanapanithipong

Associate Professor Dr. Rosjana Chandhasa

Ms. Chutima Ngampipat

from the Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.