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COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

POLI-SHEETS: LAUA-LAUA AS AN ALTERNATIVE

SOURCE FOR PAPER PRODUCTION

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A Thesis

Presented to the

Faculty of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Cagayan State University

Tuguegarao City

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BUSINESS PROPOSAL

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Proposed by:

Sena, Azyrinth Hanna B.

Bulaon, Chiena

Lopez, Maria July S.

Narag, Keneth R.

Sibbaluca, Christian C.

Maddawin, El James S.

S.Y. 2023-2024

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Poli-sheets is a product offering an alternative source for paper production. Our mission is to
provide an alternative source for paper production that will lessen the problem with cutting of
trees to produce papers.

With the rising and increasing of cut down trees, resulting to deforestation, we aim to lessen
the said problem. With an alternative source, the cutting down of trees wouldn’t be as
necessary anymore.

Upon researching the such plant we found out that Laua-laua grass has cellulose fiber content
(which is used to create clothes and other materials). These Cellulose fiber are produced
through extrusion and precipitation. Ideally, Cellulose fiber is the best alternative way to
create paper as it is more stronger, high quality, infinite resources, accessible and cheaper
than cutting down trees which is way more dangerous as it pose unwanted outcome.

“Poli-sheets” is bold and very unique brand name as it attracts potential costumers and stands
out from the rest of its competitors. “Poli-sheets” as it pertains both our course and our
business product, “Poli” as in Political and “Sheets” as in sheet of paper.

In terms of production, our product will be manufactured in our homes as it is an easy

product to make. Additionally, our product will be available for purchase online, as well as in
stores, expanding our reach to a wide range of potential customers. Once our product and
production materials improve, the quality also improves.

We invite potential investors and partners to join us in our journey to make Poli-sheets a
recognized and trusted brand in the market industry. Together, we can leverage our
innovative product, strong marketing strategies, and commitment to quality to create value
for our shareholders.

In conclusion, Poli-sheets offers an alternative way of producing paper. With a strong brand
identity, strategic marketing initiatives, and a commitment to excellence, Poli-sheets is poised
for success in the growing market industry.

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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Our world cannot be what it is now if not for the inventions and creations made in the
past. For example: wheel for transportation, compass for navigation, and more. They
give a large impact for our modern world. But one invention brought an alternative way
of writing; Paper, which are suitable for long distance communication and
documentation of history on the past centuries.

Paper has a vital role for us humans especially for us students. We use pad papers,
coloured papers and notebooks for writing. For adults, they use paper for packaging like
grocery bags and envelopes, for office works, for printed materials and more
importantly as money. World consumption of paper has grown 400 percent in the last
40 years (R. Williams, 2015). There’s still a long way to go before we lose our
dependence on this important product.

Defined by Wikipedia, paper is a thin material produced by pressing together moist

fibers of cellulose pulp that comes from wood, rags, or grasses, and turning them into
flexible and thin sheets. It has many uses, like writing, printing, packaging, cleaning,
decorating, and others. Papers are always present whether in legal or non-legal
documentation.

However, production of paper involves cutting down trees. Now nearly 4 billion trees
or 35 percent of the total trees cut around the world are used in paper industries on
every continent (R. Williams, 2015). Even though paper is the most recycled product in
the world, paper production has a large impact for deforestation.

According to Dr. Farrah, laua-laua grass, also known as carabao grass or hilo grass is an
abundant grass in the Philippines found mostly on open fields, hills and forests. It is
good for grazing cattle and horses. They are widely distributed and easy to grow but it is
considered weed and parasite because it is infesting crops and absorbs nutrients from
the soil. Sometimes, laua-laua grass is
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used as cure for some diseases. Grasses have cellulose pulp like trees which are used in
the production of paper.

To lessen the problem with deforestation and weeds, we, the researchers made a
way, to create paper out of laua-laua grass instead of trees. Thus, lessens the cutting of
trees and propagation of weeds. The abundance of laua-laua grass will satisfy the
needed fiber like trees. This study will provide everyone a new source of raw material
in producing paper.

A. NAME OF THE BUSINESS

The brand name Poli-sheets, which is a sheet of paper made out of laua-laua grass that is very
common in our area.

The term Poli in our brand name derives from the word “Political” which is our course(AB-
POLITICAL SCIENCE). The reason being is that, politics is a civic literacy and engagement
heavy activity, which means more paper work and activities that involves reading and
writing.

The word “sheets” is a rectangular piece of paper, especially one of a standard size produced
commercially and used for writing and printing on.

By combining these elements, the name “Poli-sheets” emphasizes that a single sheet of paper
can be a catalyst of civic improvement in our society not just in our environment. It reflects
our sense of competitiveness and uniqueness as a political science student.

B. OBJECTIVES

1. Provide an alternative source for the production of paper, which is Laua-laua grass.

2. Environment. It prevents the cutting down of trees and the propagation of weeds.
Therefore it helps to the reforestation of mountains and there will be lesser amount of
pest among the crops.

3. Community. It benefits the community by having more trees for shade and helping it
to become environmentally-friendly.

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C. MISSION

Our mission is to satisfy the needs of customers and businesses by creating high-quality,
environmentally friendly paper products. Promoting environmental sustainability, protecting
biosphere by producing a 100% eco-friendly product without blemishing the eco-system.

D. VISION

Our vision is to become the industry leader in environmentally responsible paper production,
establishing new benchmarks for environenmental care and offering companies who innovate
and use environmentally friendly solutions to make the world a greener place.

E. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRODUCT

Paper is an important material in our daily lives as a student. But paper is produced
from mostly from trees. Trees, on the other hand needs years to be fully grown for it to
become paper.

In the past few decades we experience intense heat and catastrophes brought by the
climate change. Forest loss and damage is the cause of around 10% of global warming..
Trees absorb and store carbon dioxide on a daily basis, it also provide pure and clean air since
it produces oxygen. If trees are being cut down, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will
increase are there will no longer be enough trees to absorb carbon dioxide. It will accumulate
in the atmosphere and will largely contribute to global warming.

Alternative paper, particularly the laua-laua grass paper (POLI-SHEETS). Has gained
attention due to its potential to reduce environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and
promote sustainable practices in the paper industry. This comprehensive detail will explore
the various aspects of alternative paper, including its production processes, environmental
benefits, challenges, and applications.

F. TYPE OF BUSINESS ORGANIZATION

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Poli-sheets operates as a privately owned limited liability company (LLC). As an LLC, it

offers several advantages for our business operations and provides a suitable structure to
achieve our goals effectively.

The choice of an LLC structure provides flexibility and protection for the business owners. It
offers limited liability, meaning that the owners' personal assets are separate from the
company's liabilities. This protects the owners' personal finances in the event of any legal or
financial issues the business may face.

Additionally, an LLC allows for flexible management and ownership structures. This enables
us to have multiple owners or investors and provides the opportunity for growth and
expansion in the future. It also facilitates decision-making processes and allows for efficient
management of the business.

Furthermore, as an LLC, Poli-sheets benefits from certain tax advantages. The profits and
losses of the company are passed through to the individual owners, who report them on their
personal tax returns. This helps in avoiding double taxation and can provide potential tax
savings for the business and its owners.

(1) ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

FOUNDER/OWNER

MANAGEMENT TEAM

MARKETING MANAGER OPERATIONS MANAGER

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PRODUCTION TEAM
SALES TEAM

(2)OFFICERS OF THE BUSINESS AND THEIR ROLES

 Owner/Founder: The owner/founder is the visionary behind Poli-sheets and holds the full
accountability and responsibility to the product. They provide strategic direction, make
critical decisions, and oversee the overall operations of the company.

 Marketing Manager: The marketing manager is responsible for developing and executing
marketing strategies to promote Poli-sheets. They conduct market research, identify
target markets, create marketing campaigns, manage advertising efforts, and build brand
awareness. Their goal is to attract customers, drive sales, and establish a strong market
presence.

 Operations Manager: The operations manager oversees the day-to-day activities of Poli-
sheets. They are responsible for managing production, inventory, logistics, and ensuring
smooth operations. They develop and implement operational processes, monitor
efficiency, optimize resource allocation, and maintain product quality standards. Their
role is essential in meeting customer demands, streamlining operations, and achieving
operational excellence.

 Sales Team: The sales team focuses on generating revenue by driving sales of Poli-
sheets. They identify potential customers, build relationships, and actively pursue sales
opportunities. They engage in customer prospecting, product presentations, negotiations,

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and closing deals. Their objective is to meet sales targets, increase market share, and
foster customer satisfaction.

CHAPTER II

BODY
This study is focused mainly to determine the possibility in producing paper out of Laua-laua
grass. And to test whether it is accepted in terms of its texture, color, appearance and tensile
strength. Futhermore, this study focused on the demand, possible costumers, production of
the product.

ECONOMIC STATUS

The introduction of the can have both direct and indirect economic effects on the consumers
and the paper industry as a whole. When consumers purchase POLI-SHEETS, it contributes
to consumer spending and generates revenue for the supplement manufacturer, benefiting the
social and environmental status and the overall economy.

The production and distribution of POLI-SHEETS involves various local stakeholders,

including small-scale sellers, transportation services, and raw material suppliers. The demand
for the product stimulates these sectors, supporting income generation and strengthening the
local supply chain. As a result, the increased economic activity driven by POLI-SHEETS has
a positive impact on employment, trade, and the growth of related businesses.

Furthermore, the success of POLI-SHEETS can attract investments and create opportunities
for expansion and innovation in the agriculture industry. This growth can lead to the
development of new businesses, job creation, and increased competition, ultimately
benefiting the economy as a whole.

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The introduction and promotion of POLI-SHEETS have the potential to contribute to the
economic well-being of consumers, local sellers, suppliers, farmers and the agriculture
industry in general. By stimulating consumer spending and supporting the growth of various
sectors, the product can positively impact the economic status of individuals and contribute to
the overall economic conditions in the market.

A. MARKET DESCRIPTION

A unique and high quality paper perfect for consumers in any age. POLI-SHEETS wants to
emphasize its commitment on being eco-friendly. The demand of alternative paper has
increased throughout the years as trees rapidly decreases. With this in mind, there is a huge
opportunity to grasp as it recognizes the need for responsible resource management, the
adoption of alternative paper stands as a tangible and impactful step towards building a more
sustainable and resilient world.

B. DEMAND SITUATION

The demand for alternative papers is a sign of Environmental consciousness. A realization

that our choices extend beyond personal convenience to impact the planet. The desire to
make environmentally responsible choices has elevated the demand for papers that go beyond
traditional methods, opting for materials that don't contribute to deforestation or
environmental degradation.

Moreover, Businesses are embracing corporate social responsibility, and the demand for
alternative papers aligns seamlessly with these initiatives. Organizations are recognizing that
sustainable choices, such as using alternative papers, not only contribute to a positive
environmental impact but also with the availability of its resources which can be found
anywhere, is way more cheaper than the traditional one, and would not compromise the state
of the business.

Furthermore, by its availability of resource and cheaper materials, POLI-SHEETS is the

better choice for businesses and individuals seeking sustainability without compromising on
financial viability.

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C. SUPPLY SITUATION

It is commonly found in hot humid areas (river banks, roadsides and disturbed areas)
and in open moderately shaded areas (coconut, rubber and oil palm plantations). It can
grow on a wide range of soils including acid ones (Manidool, 1992, Stü r et al., 1990). It is
drought-resistant, remaining green long into the dry season .

Moreover, Since the main material(Laua-laua grass) is considered as invasive due to its rapid
growth, the supply situation for POLI-SHEETS is easily accessible and free to get.

The production capacity of POLI-SHEETS is sought to meet the demand of the people. With
the availability and quality of the raw materials we can give the best and cost efficient
product.

1. MARKET PROGRAM

Since our time mostly focused on studying. Our program office is available 9am-6pm every
weekends to assist participants with inquiries, provide support, and address any concerns.
You can pre- order online just by messaging our team in our social media accounts, this is to
allow consumers to guarantee immediate shipment on release and quality product.

While the program office may be closed on weekdays, our online resources, including
Facebook page and Facebook accounts, are available 24/7 for consumers to access at their
convenience.

We understand that convenience is crucial for our target market. With this in mind, we will
establish a partnership with local stores and companies to make our product available and
accessible anywhere for out costumers to buy.

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Knowing trend of business contents across social media platforms, it is wise to make contents
related to our product to share with the wide audience its uniqueness and being eco-friendly.

2. PLACE

The Laua-laua paper sheets (POLI-SHEETS) will be manufactured in our home that adheres
to strict quality control measures. The facility(which is our house) will be located in a
convenient and accessible location to ensure efficient distribution of the product that targets
wider audiences in different locations.

In addition to being available for purchase online, the product will also be sold in stores
specially in sari-sari stores and bookstores. This will ensure that the product is easily
accessible to the consumers.

With our shared commitment to reducing their ecological footprint and fostering a greener
lifestyle. The likes sari-sari stores would be the ideal store to be partnered with since it is
found anywhere and everywhere therefore, it mitigates the use of carbon footprints.

3. TARGET CLIENTS

 Students in any age

 Workers

 Artist

 Environmentalist

 Bookstores and Sari-sari Stores

 Low income class

4. ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION

The STP (Segmentation, Targeting, Positioning) model is a marketing tool that helps
businesses to identify and target specific groups of customers based on their needs,
characteristics, and behaviors.

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Using the STP model can be beneficial for promoting the Laua-laua paper sheets (POLI-
SHEETS) because it helps the company to identify and target specific groups of dog owners
who are most likely to benefit from the product.

It involves three key steps:

 Segmentation: This involves dividing the market into smaller groups of consumers
with similar needs, preferences, and behaviors. In this case, the market can be
segmented based on factors such as the income status, quality preference and usage.

 Targeting: After identifying the different market segments, the next step is to select
the most profitable and attractive ones to target. For the POLI-SHEETS, the target
audience would be students, workers, artist, environmentalist, low income class that
seeks a high quality and at the same time cost-efficient product.

 Positioning: Once the target audience is identified, the next step is to position the
product in a way that appeals to the needs and preferences of the target audience. The
POLI-SHEETS can be positioned as a high-quality, natural, and affordable alternative to
traditional paper that can destroy Eco-system and the safety of the people.

To implement the STP model effectively, various marketing tactics can be used, such as
social media advertising, influence marketing, and content marketing. For instance, social
media platforms can be used to showcase the benefits of Laua-laua paper sheets (POLI-
SHEETS). Content marketing can involve creating blogs, articles, and videos that provide
valuable information about the such product.

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1. SWOT ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

● Easy to make ● Slow manufacturing

● Affordable ● Slow supplier
● High availability of resources
● Eco-friendly

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

● High demand ● Increase of competitors

● Heightened environmental
● Potential for negative reviews or
awareness
backlash if the product does not meet
expectations

2. COST OF PRODUCT

Sizes Price in Philippine Peso

A4(30 pcs) P21.00

Letter(30 pcs) P20.00

Long(30 pcs) P25.00

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III. BUDGETING REQUIREMENTS

SALES TARGET

Price in Philippine
Sizes Peso Units Total Price

A4(30 pcs) P21.00 150 P3,150.00

Letter(30 pcs) P20.00 150 P3,000.00

Long(30 pcs) P25.00 150 P3,750.00

FINANCIAL PLAN

TOTAL
RAW MATERIALS QUANTITY UNIT COST COST

Glue 250g P156.00 P156.00

Mild caustic soda 100g P25.00 P25.00

Bleach 500ml P22.00 P22.00

Okra 1kg P30.00 P30.00

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS

Silk Screen 1 unit P138.00 P138.00

Strainer 1 unit P120.00 P120.00

Materials:

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The materials needed are laua-laua grass, glue, mild caustic soda or washing soda,

bleach, cheese cloth, casserole, chopping board, strainer, blender, mortar and pestle, flat

container, basin, okra, and weighing scale.

Procedure:

a) Gathering of Laua-laua grass

The researchers gathered and collected laua-laua grass around the locality. The amount

of grass collected was 250 grams.

Preparation of Laua-laua grass

First, the researchers grinded and cut the laua-laua grass. 100 grams of caustic soda and

the grass was mixed with 1 liter cold water. Next, we boiled it for 60-120 minutes and

until grass is easy to pull. The grass was washed and rinsed. Then, the grass got

pounded twice on a flat surface and bleach was added to the grass. Finally, the pounded

grass got washed.

b) Production of Laua-laua grass Paper

The grass was pounded twice again. The fiber with 200 grams water was blended with

okra extract. 300 grams pulp is added to a basin with 5 liters of water and 200 grams

glue. The mixture is mixed well. Then the liquid is strained. Couch the sheet by

transferring it to a smooth cloth. We pressed the sheets to produce a smooth surface

then let it dry in light pressure for 36-48 hours.

Gathering of Data

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The laua-laua grass paper was tested in terms of tensile strength, texture, appearance,

and color.

The tensile strength of the paper was tested using Newton Meter. The paper had 2 sizes

for better results. There are 3 replicas each size. The researches recorded the findings

when the paper was teared apart.

To test the feasibility of the alternative paper in terms of texture and color, the

researchers gathered 12 respondents. They were given scoring sheets and scored the

product using a Liker Pointing Scale. Scoring it 5 as the highest which is very acceptable,

and 1 as the lowest which is very not acceptable.

REFERENCE

Robert I. Burns, Doremo, (2019) “Paper”

Retrieved from https://en.m.wikepedia.org/wiki/Paper

Kokusai Pulp & Paper Co., Ltd. (2016) “What is Paper”

Retrieved from http://www.kppc.co.jp/en/aboutus/paper.html

WebFinance inc. (2019), “Definition of Paper”

Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/paper.html

CONFEDERATION OF PAPER INDUSTRIES , 2014, “Kidzone: What is Paper”

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Retrieved from https://paper.org.uk/schools/kids-zone/what-is-paper/

Aakanksha Gaur, John Higgins, Gloria Lotha, Dutta Promeet, Marco Sampaolo, (1998-

2019) “Paper” ,

Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/technology/paper

Chapman G.P. & Peat W.E. (1992), “Grass”

Retrieved from https://simple.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grass

Albert Spear Hitchcock, Richard Pallardy, (2019), “Grass:Plant”

Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/plant/grass

Dr. Farrah Agustin-Bunch, MD. (2014) “Laua-laua”

Retrieved from https://drfarrahcancercenter.com/portfolio/laua-laua/

Heuze V., Tran G., Baumont R (2016) “Buffalo Grass (Paspalum Conjugatum)”

Retrieved from https://www.feedipedia.org/node/407

Gododredo U. Stuart Jr., M.D (2015) “Laua-Laua: Paspalum conjugatum P.J Bergius”

Retrieved from http://www.stuartxchange.com/Laua-laua.html

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