Banana fibre is derived from the stem of the banana plant. It is extremely resource efficient since it is made from waste material that would otherwise be burnt or left to rot. Banana fibre can either be extracted by hand or with the use of chemicals. While the second method is of course less environmentally friendly, it results in a soft and shiny fibre that is very similar to silk. Natural extraction methods on the other hand result in a rough bast fibre that is eco-friendly and good for the skin, but has little in common with the delicate properties of silk.