We’re always looking for eco-friendly alternatives to harmful petroleum-based plastics. We’ve highlighted 4 recently added manufacturers that are working on biodegradable or biocomposite plastics.
VEGANBOTTLE?
By: Lyspackaging
The world’s first 100% biodegradable PLA bottle made from sugarcane. The resin used in the bottle is primarily a sugar-based polylactic acid (PLA), with a lower environmental impact than petrochemical-based plastics. When the bottle is exposed to a mixture of moisture, heat, and bacteria, it degrades within 90 days. It is ANIA-certified food safe for global and specific migration. Its end of life processing options includes recovery by industrial composting and anaerobic digestion. Applications are currently for food and beverage packaging.
Mixcycling? Sughera
By: Livingcap SRL
A new biocomposite plastic blend made from natural cork waste and plastic based on a patent-pending binding additive technology. Used to create a premium look and feel for custom molded parts, the material consists (30%) of a PE/SEBS based compound and (70%) natural cork flour left from after the cork manufacturing process. This process gives new life to organic industrial waste and reduces the amount of plastic waste. The material is also recyclable and available in a biodegradable version with complete customization. Applications are for furniture, automotive, design, cosmetic packaging, food, and beverage.
Valnux
By: Valnux
A biodegradable thermoplastic produced from discarded walnut shells, grown organically in Chile. The majority of walnut waste is currently used as an alternative for firewood or to replace groundcover in gardens. Instead, the shells can now be upcycled to create a material with natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties made possible by juglone, a molecule naturally present in walnut shells. The material is also fully compostable and does not alter the organoleptic properties when in direct contact with food. Applications include tabletop design, packaging, and other consumer products.
Corn Starch-Based Bioplastic Disposables
By: Cornware
A 100% biodegradable starch-based bioplastic with performance competitive to oil-based plastics. This bioplastic consists (70%) of corn and yam starch and (30%) post-consumer recycled polypropylene. The polypropylene (PP) ensures that the material is waterproof and resistant to high temperatures. Since the (PP) is assimilated with the corn and yam starch, it is also biodegradable. In the correct conditions, this bioplastic can biodegrade in as little as 90 days! It is also non-toxic and food-safe, even at high temperatures. Current applications include tableware and carrier bags.
