RMUTT Develops Eco-Friendly Water Lanterns Made from Straw Paper and EM Balls

An innovative idea has emerged to produce EM ball lanterns using straw paper mixed with EM balls, designed to be environmentally friendly and improve water conditions during the Loy Krathong festival.

Asst. Prof. Chulaporn Srimongmai, a lecturer in the Bachelor of Home Economics program, Creative Arts Innovation Department, Faculty of Home Economics Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT), revealed that the concept of producing straw paper originates from utilizing leftover straw post-harvest. This helps reduce the problem of air pollution caused by burning straw and adds value to it. Straw, being an agricultural by-product rich in fiber, can be shaped into paper that is eco-friendly and biodegradable in nature.

he EM ball lanterns are made from eco-friendly materials and have the unique attribute of enhancing water conditions by increasing microorganisms in water sources. This development builds on the straw paper product by combining it with EM balls, which contain rice bran, to improve adhesion on the paper’s surface. The paper is produced by spinning and mixing straw fiber with EM balls at a 1:1 ratio, ensuring rapid biodegradation and environmental friendliness for water sources. EM balls offer benefits in wastewater treatment, improving water quality, and help decompose plant matter and other debris in the water, becoming feed for aquatic animals. Moreover, EM balls are safe for both humans and animals.

Asst. Prof. Winai Tarawate, lecturer in the Bachelor of Home Economics program, Innovation in Creative Arts Department, Faculty of Home Economics Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT), explained further about the production process of EM ball water lanterns. The materials include straw paper mixed with EM balls, latex glue, straw, jute rope, incense and candles, and cardboard. The method starts by cutting a 6-inch diameter cardboard base. Then, cut 24 petals of straw paper mixed with EM balls, sized 2 inches wide and 4 inches long. These are rolled into lotus petals. Tie straw into a 4-inch diameter circle and attach the lotus petals onto the cardboard in an inverted lotus shape. Cut paper into 2-inch by 2-inch squares, fold them into detailed petals, and place them on the inverted lotus petals. Attach the lotus petals around, forming an open lotus. Finally, decorate with incense, candles, and straw paper figurines.

This straw paper has previously been developed into water lanterns by the elderly community at Ban Krachaeng, Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province. The knowledge was transferred from RMUTT’s Innovation in Creative Arts Department to the community. For those interested in the EM ball lanterns made from straw paper, more information can be inquired at the Innovation in Creative Arts Department, Faculty of Home Economics Technology, RMUTT, at phone number 025493161.