Did you know you can sustainably create paper from native plants, and that native plant fibres are being used for a range of biomaterials? Papermaking is well known as a creative and artistic pursuit but also provides a springboard into a range of STEAM-themed inquiries, from forest science and horticulture to process chemistry and engineering, and ultimately material science and design. Native plant papermaking enables access to the ideas and concepts of the emerging economic sector of biomaterials, allowing for engaging and relevant learning opportunities including the rich social, environmental and technological history of papermaking and the modern need for decarbonising the economy.
