Circular Materials Fibre Pellets are produced from waste textiles, such as old clothes and production offcuts. The recycled fibres can be used as fibre reinforcement for plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The fibre-based composite is compatible with conventional plastic manufacturing processes, such as injection and compression moulding. It is suitable for a range of applications including products, packaging, point-of-sale (POS) and fashion accessories. For example, this tray in injection moulded using 25% fibre pellet and 75% recycled PP (rPP). Image Circular Materials.

Swanline Cygnus Eco Board is a fibre-based board suitable for print, graphics, packaging (including food contact) and point-of-sale (POS). It is resistant to water and moisture, and so suitable for temporary outdoor signage and short term moisture sensitive signage and packaging. It provides an alternative to plastic for graphics applications, such as polyethylene (PE) coated paper, high impact polystyrene (HIPS) and even aluminium composite panels. Available in a range of thicknesses, it is recyclable, compostable and available with up to 70% recycled content. Image Swanline.

Inga Plastics are developing a polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a type of biodegradable polyester, that uses captured CO2 as feedstock. The pilot project used carbon dioxide from a waste incineration plant in Riihimaki, Finland. Here they proved their carbon capture technology, which together with hydrogen is used to produce the intermediate product, methane. Image Inga Plastics.

SEFF hemp fibre for fashion and interiors, softened to resemble cotton. Image SEFF.

Sparxell produce non-toxic and biodegradable pigments from cellulose. Their technology exploits the highly reflective nature of plant-based cellulose. The colour comes from reflected light, so called structural colour, does not fade and can be used in the same contexts as conventional pigments, glitters, and sequins. The company does not use mica, titania or dye, ensuring their pigments have the least impact possible on the environment. Image Sparxell.

Two new Surlyn ionomer resins developed by Dow offer carbon savings compared to virgin material. Surlyn REN ionomers are produced using bio-waste such as cooking oil. This process utilises waste residues or by-products from alternative product processes from other industries meaning the raw feedstock materials will not consume extra land resources or compete with the food chain. Surlyn CIR ionomers are created through chemical recycling technologies, breaking down mixed waste plastics into their basic chemical elements, giving plastic waste a second life. This produces a raw material that is equivalent to those made from virgin fossil feedstock. Image Dow.

Corn Next CN2017 is a starch bioplastic made from corn starch, water and oil. It is suitable for extrusion and injection moulding, food safe and home compostable. CN2017 can break down in as little as 30 days and can degrade in any environment, leaving behind no harmful chemicals. Image Corn Next.

Mitsubishi Forzeas is a compounding resin that uses biodegradable and bio-based polybutylene succinate (bioPBS), mixed with other materials. Each grade has its own unique features and can be used in various applications including packaging, tableware and eating utensils. Image Mitsubishi.

Syklo produce an innovative biocomposite consisting of post consumer recycled (PCR) polypropylene (rPP) combined with recycled paper. The paper is shredded and micro fibrillated (MFC) to create a highly functional additive that provides significant mechanical benefits. It can be injection moulded and provides a bio-based recycled alternative to conventional PP materials in packaging and product applications. Image Syklo.

Kaneka produce bio-based and biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) as Green Planet. It is suitable for a range of applications include foam packaging, disposable cutlery, single use packaging and reusable food packaging (such as these in-flight meal container served on JAL’s international flights). The colour of the container comes from natural minerals, which means that both materials and colour additive are fossil-free. Image Kaneka.

LYB LyondelBasell CirculenRecover includes a range of products that include up to an impressive 100% post consumer recycled (PCR) content. The scrap is derived from plastic waste via a mechanical recycling process and is suitable for a range of applications in packaging, automotive and products. The range of colours possible depends on the source of scrap. Image LYB LyondelBasell.

Trexel MuCell microcellular foaming technology is used in combination with injection moulding to produce lightweight and durable shoe midsoles. It involves the injection of a supercritical fluid (SCF), typically nitrogen or carbon dioxide, into the molten plastic during the moulding process. This creates a microcellular foam structure within the plastic part, resulting in various benefits such as weight reduction, polymer reduction, reduced warpage and faster cycle times. The sole is moulded directly onto the fabric, finishing the shoe in a single step.

Tecnaro Arbofill materials are made from renewable raw materials and plastics. Aesthetic materials with interesting applications are the result of combining plastic and natural filler materials. Arbofill is suitable for injection moulding processes.

Tecnaro Arboblend combines a range of bio-based plastics, including polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), starch, bio-based polyethylene (bio-PE), bio-based polyamides (bio-PA), lignin and natural fibres. The recipe depends on the requirements of the application.

Sun Circle produce polybutylene succinate (PBS) for packaging, kitchen items and agricultural products. These are biodegradable co-polyesters with properties similar to polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). Typically produced from fossil fuel, it is also possible to make these plastics from bio-based materials, such as through the bacterial fermentation of sugarcane, cassava, and corn. Grades exist that are derived from biomass and are suitable for home composting, without any specialised composting facilities. Image Sun Circle.

HUID are developing packaging materials from onion skins. Their developments include Pyber card-like material made from biologically processed onion skin fibres and Cellofil flexible film designed as an alternative to plastic packaging films such as low density polyethylene (LDPE). Image HUID.

Oceanium develops functional seaweed ingredients for applications in health and wellbeing, skincare, packaging materials, food and beverages. As an example, they developed Ocean Ink, which is a fully biodegradable water-based ink derived from sustainably sourced seaweed. It has a naturally golden colour, which lends itself to high end and luxury packaging, offering an alternative to foil embossing (hot foiling, foil blocking). Image Oceanium.

Searo Labs has developed a unique formulation of seaweed-based materials that are food contact safe, home compostable, moisture and texture controllable, optically clear, and heat sealable. Potential applications range from film packaging for fresh food to dissolvable shampoo and detergent pods, and feminine care products. Image Searo Labs.

B’ZEOS develops sustainable packaging solutions using seaweed as the main biomass source, in particular sargassum extracts. They are in the process of developing flexible films, paper coatings, thermoformable materials, and injection moulding grades for various types of packaging application. Image B’ZEOS.

Continuous cast aluminium alloys from Raffmetal are produced from around 90% recycled scrap aluminium. The carbon footprint of their material is 2.18 kgCO2e/kg according to their life cycle analysis (LCA). This is significantly lower than the European average for aluminium, which is around 6.7 kgCO2e/kg. Image Raffmetal.

VTT, LUT University, and companies (including Borealis) have opened a pilot plant in Finland to process captured CO2 into compounds that can replace fossil raw materials in the production of polypropylene (bio-PP) and polyethylene (bio-PE). At this stage, they are produced at VTT Bioruukki from flue gas carbon dioxide. In the future, the technology can be brought into production wherever bio-based carbon dioxide is produced, such as in forest industry or waste incineration plants.

Nextek launched the NextLoopp project to develop the infrastructure and systems needed for recycling polypropylene (rPP) to make new food grade material for packaging food and cosmetics. Image Nextek.

Papillon Bleu is a traceable, regenerative organic cotton program in Southern India working directly with farmers for fair trading in partnership with Raddis Cotton and NGO GVK Society. Image Papillon Bleu.

Good Earth Cotton is a regenerative farming programme that encourages techniques and practices that enhance the ability for soil to sequester more carbon than the entire cotton growth lifecycle emits. Image Good Earth Cotton.

Woola convert waste wool into packaging to provide an alternative to plastic bubblewrap. The wool is sourced from local farmers close to their factory in Estonia. A small amount of polylactic acid (PLA) is used to bind the wool fibre, but this is being phased out by the company. Image Woola.

Sirmax Green Isofil recycled polypropylene (rPP), including standard and high performance grades modified with mineral fillers for added stiffness, suitable for automotive interiors, products and packaging. Certified flame retardant versions are available both halogenated and halogen-free. Image Sirmax.

Morssinkhof – Rymoplast recycled low density polyethylene terephthalate (rLDPE) suitable for film and packaging applications with up to 100% post consumer recycled (PCR) material. Image Morssinkhof – Rymoplast.

Morssinkhof – Rymoplast recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging and convert it into MOPET rPET suitable for converting back into food contact packaging. MOPET-A, MOPET-Clear and MOPET-Green can be used at 100% for the production of clear, transparent food contact packaging: preforms, bottles and sheet. MOPET rPET is suitable for converting into other polyester products like fibre and injection mouldings. Image Morssinkhof – Rymoplast.

Morssinkhof – Rymoplast recycled high density polyethylene (rHDPE) suitable for the production of crates, pallets, pipes and plates. They also produce rHDPE blow moulding granulates, known as Mothylene, from well sorted post consumer recycled (PCR) products and packaging. Image Morssinkhof – Rymoplast.

Morssinkhof – Rymoplast Moprylene recycled polypropylene (rPP) is produced with industrial and post-consumer waste, depending on the requirements. Some of the regrinds and compounds are even suitable for the production of food contact packaging. Image Morssinkhof – Rymoplast.

Ravago Ravapura compounds include 50-70% recycled content low density polyethylene (rLDPE), 50-75% recycled content high density polyethylene (rHDPE), 33-50% recycled content polypropylene (rPP), 50-70% recycled content high impact polystyrene (rHIPS), 50-70% recycled content acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (rABS). They are suitable for packaging (non-food contact), electrical, products, furniture and appliances.

Made of Air convert biomass waste streams (such as forestry offcuts and secondary agricultural materials), which have photosynthesised CO2, into a form of biochar through controlled pyrolysis. Burning materials without oxygen means the carbon cannot form CO2 and instead forms biochar. Using their technology the biochar is converted into a functional carbon-rich filler for plastic biocomposites. Biochar has been produced for centuries and is increasingly being used as a fertiliser as well as a way of sequestering carbon in the soil, because the carbon is locked in and it remains stable for hundreds of years. Image Made of Air.

Nature Coatings BioBlack TX is a water-based dispersion featuring a proprietary black pigment from FSC certified wood waste. It provides a direct replacement for petroleum-derived carbon black, with a significantly lower carbon footprint and no toxic chemicals. Image Nature Coatings.

Colourful bio-based plastic by Ornamin using Tecnaro Arboblend with colour masterbatch from Grafe. It is 94% bio-based consisting of a mix of polyesters, natural waxes, minerals and fibres. Image Grafe.

Sequinova sequins and glitter are made with cellulose and are fully biodegradable in water in two months. There are a range of effects and colours, providing an alternative to regular polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester or polyamide (PA), nylon. Image Sequinova.

Tritan Renew by Eastman uses chemically recycled polyester from sources like single use packaging to produce a new engineering copolyester with durable properties suitable for product enclosures, packaging, healthcare and food contact. Image Eastman.

Trexel MuCell microcellular foam injection technology is an innovative manufacturing process used to produce lightweight and cost-effective plastic parts. It involves the injection of a supercritical fluid (SCF), typically nitrogen or carbon dioxide, into the molten plastic during the moulding process. This creates a microcellular foam structure within the plastic part, resulting in various benefits such as weight reduction, polymer reduction, reduced warpage and faster cycle times. Image Trexel.

Borealis produce Bornewable bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) using feedstocks derived from waste, such as used cooking oil. In this way, they do not compete with food. Up to around twice the price of standard PP, bio-PP offers a potentially carbon neutral solution in many applications. Image Borealis.

Fortum produce a range of recycled plastic materials under the trade name Circo including polypropylene (rPP), low density polyethylene (rLDPE) and high density polyethylene (rHDPE). Image Fortum.

Polykemi and their subsidiary Rondo Plast produce a range of recycled plastics, up to 100% recycled ingredients. Grades include polyamide (rPA), nylon, polypropylene (rPP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (rABS) and polycarbonate alloys (rPC/ABS). Image Polykemi.

Granulous bio-based composite is made with bioplastic and 40% brewers spent grains (a waste material from the beverage industry). Granulous material is designed and tested to short life applications, can last in dishwasher, repeated uses, with low moisture exposure it can last indefinitely. It is suitable for home composting and will decompose in both soil and sea. Image Granulous.

The feedstock for UBQ is household waste, which is largely comprised of organic materials – everything from food residues and mixed plastics to cardboard, paper, and even dirty diapers, that would have otherwise been sent to landfill or incineration. Metals and minerals, which have high recyclability, are removed and sent over to traditional recycling streams. UBQ’s waste conversion technology breaks down the organic matter into its basic particulate constructs—lignin, cellulose, fibres, and sugars—and then reassembles them into a matrix. Residual plastics present in the waste stream melt and get mixed into the matrix to create a homogeneous and consistent composite thermoplastic material. Image UBQ.

Borealis Borcycle is a recycled polypropylene (rPP) produced from post-consumer recycled (PCR) material. During mechanical recycling the waste plastic is separated by colour to ensure high visual quality material and enable the production of recycled light-coloured rPP. Image Borealis.

BrightPlus biodegradable polyester materials, such as polylactic acid (PLA), are suitable for injection moulding, 3D printing, extrusion and other plastic forming processes. As industrially compostable bioplastics they are suitable for packaging, consumer products, prototyping and a range of other applications. Bio-based content ranging from 25% (elastomeric grade) to almost 100%. Image BrightPlus.

Bio-Fed M•Vera bio-based plastics by Akro Plastics are suitable for injection moulding and are used for coffee capsules, cutlery, cosmetic packaging, toys, plant clips and so on. Renewable grades are based on starch, cellulose, polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). Fossil-based types include polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polycaprolactone (PCL). The amount of renewable content is tailored to the application. Image Bio-Fed (a branch of Akro Plastics).

Renol from Lignin Industries is a bio-based additive for thermoplastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The lignin used to make the additive is a by-product of the paper pulping industry and is typically burnt for energy generation. As an additive it can bring the carbon footprint down by replacing a proportion of the plastic in moulding and extrusion applications.

MGG Polymers, which started out as a joint venture with MBA Polymers, have developed a range of techniques for separating complex post consumer mixed waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). They produce grades of 100% recycled polypropylene (rPP), high impact polystyrene (rHIPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (rABS) and polycarbonate alloy (rPC/ABS). Image MGG Polymers (Müller-Guttenbrunn Group).

Ecor convert agricultural and post-consumer waste (paper and card) into building materials, providing an alternative to engineered wood panels. Raw materials are processed into usable feedstock via a mechanical pulping process to achieve the desired properties for the pulp. The pulp is then dispersed in water and through controlled processing the lignin acts as a natural glue, like hardboard, binding the fibres together. Image Ecor.

Vegaplac by Bark Cloth is a biocomposite material made up of agricultural waste (palm leaf residue and banana fibre, for example), bound together with bio-based polyurethane resin (bio-PUR).

Made from recycled limestone (calcium carbonate), Karst paper offers a tree-free alternative to regular paper. It is waterproof, non-toxic and recyclable, and on top of that doesn’t use any water, acids or bleach. Image Karst.

Green Cast by Madreperla is 100% recycled and recyclable cast polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), acrylic, sheet. The company’s environmental product declaration (EPD) gives a carbon footprint of 2.13 kgCO2/kg for this material. It is produced with 100% R-MMA, recycled methylmethacrylate monomer produced by Madreperla in Italy. It is available in transparent, as well as a wide range of colours and finishes. Image Madreperla.

NaturePlast produce a range of bio-based and biodegradable polyesters, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), as well as bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) and polyethylene (bio-PE). Their materials are suitable for a range of applications spanning packaging, products, automotive and textiles. Image NaturePlast.

Corn starch bioplastic disposable food packaging (CornWare) is made with polylactic acid (PLA), which is industrially compostable. Image Element.

Hardboard produced with the wet fibre process, which uses the wood’s natural resins to bond the fibres together. Fundermax hardboard is suitable for general construction, stiffening walls, surface finish for doors, automotive interior trim, packaging and furniture. Image Fundermax.

Oryzite is a bio-filler produced from rice husk, a byproduct of food production. It is used to reduce the weight, cost and carbon footprint of plastics. Mixed with thermoplastics, such as polypropylene (PP), at up to 85%, it can have many benefits. Applications already include packaging, automotive parts, outdoor equipment, fashion accessories and product enclosures. However, it means the material is unlikely to be recycled end of life. Image Oryzite.

Algopack produce compostable packaging using seaweed bioplastic, as well as blends of seaweed with other plastics to help reduce the carbon footprint of products. Image Algopack.

Zerocircle produce seaweed-based plastics for packaging films and coatings. They are home compostable and provide an effective barrier to oxygen, water and oil. Image Zerocircle.

Kelpi produce a leakproof seaweed-based coating that is resistant to water and oil. Image Kelpi.

AirCarbon polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), biodegradable polyester is produced by Newlight Technologies. They use a novel catalytic process based on microorganisms from the ocean. These microorganisms take oxygen from the air and carbon and hydrogen from methane and CO2, and combine these into molecules that make up PHB polymer. Image Newlight Technologies.

Mirel is a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), bio-based and biodegradable polyester, produced by by Telles (dissolved 2012). A semi-crystalline PHA approved for food contact – from frozen foods to boiling water – it is suitable for injection moulding, film extrusion and thermoforming. In addition to packaging materials and food service items, it could be used to replace polystyrene (PS) in electronics packaging applications. Image Telles.

Brewed Protein by Spiber includes fibres, films, and other types of protein-based materials that are manufactured through fermentation (brewing) of plant-based ingredients. Sugars obtained from agricultural products such as sugarcane and corn provide the main feedstock. The finished materials are bio-based, non-toxic and biodegradable in soil and marine environments. Applications include textiles, fashion, garments, faux fur, films and packaging. Image Spiber.

Ecopel Koba faux fur is produced using DuPont Sorona, a partially bio-based polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), polyester fibre, with up to one-third renewable ingredients.

Even though still in the lab, Galy promise their lab-grown Literally Cotton will be less susceptible to weather and environmental influences, in stable quantities and at stable prices. Instead of harvesting plants, the cells are grown in bioreactor in a process similar to beer brewing. Galy claim their cotton grows ten times faster than conventional cotton, in a process that uses 77% less water, 80% less land and emits 84% less CO2 than traditional cotton manufacturing. Image Galy.

LignoPure, a spin-off from the TVT Institute of the TUHH, produce sulphur-free lignin suitable as an ingredient in the production of bio-based plastics and composites. It is under development for a range of manufacturing processes like injection moulding, extrusion, melt spinning and 3D printing. Image LignoPure.

Banofi, Ban-o-Fi (banana fibre leather), plant-based leather is made with 50% banana fibres, 30% agricultural waste additives and 20% plastic. The textile is suitable for fashion, furniture, automotive and packaging applications. Image Banofi.

Notpla rigid is a seaweed-based material that can be moulded into utensils, such as forks and ice cream spoons. It is biodegradable and compostable. Image Notpla.

Siegwerk‘s Uninature water-oil barrier coating for disposable paper packaging is 100% bio-based and proven to effectively reduce the absorption of water, oil and grease on paper stock intended for direct food contact while maintaining its recyclability. Image Siegwerk.

BASF Styropor Ccycled expanded polystyrene (rEPS) is made from raw materials derived from chemically recycling mixed polystyrene (PS) waste. The plastic waste is converted into pyrolysis oil and then fed into BASF’s value chain. Image BASF.

Sabic recycled polypropylene (rPP) impact copolymer, from its Trucircle programme, is made from post-consumer mixed plastic, which is chemically broken down into its molecular building blocks, to create virgin plastics. It is certified as suitable for food contact, as well as frozen foods. Image Unilever.

Nurel Inzea are bio-based and biodegradable polyesters, up to 85% of which are produced from various bioplastics such as non-genetically modified polylactic acid (PLA) and starch. Image Nurel.

Zume and Solenis teamed up to create a line of PFAS-free packaging that is compostable, made from repurposed natural materials like agricultural waste, and includes a range of hot cup lids, bowls, plates, egg cartons, coffee cup lids, protein trays and yogurt cups. Oil repellency is achieved with a mix of PFAS-free chemistry, including Solenis TopScreen water repellent bio-based wax barrier coatings which is both plastic-free and paraffin-free. Image Zume.

Xampla Morro plant based polymers are natural proteins converted into compostable packaging materials, such as coatings and films. The proteins are derived from agricultural waste, from what is leftover once starch has been extracted from peas. They have developed water-soluble films, which can be used for in edible packaging like stock cubes. They also offer dispersion coatings for paper, totally plastic free and home compostable, that can be tailored to offer grease resistance, water resistance, or both. Image Xampla.

Vivomer by Shellworks is made with the fat of microorganisms found in the soil and sea. The microbes are grown and fermented to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), biodegradable polyester. Once used, Vivomer is easily metabolised by these same microbes so that it can be thrown away like ordinary food waste. Image Haeckels.

Vegware compostable packaging is made with paper and polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastic. They are certified compostable at industrial facilities. Image Vegware.

UPM Formi EcoAce is a bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) produced from bio-based naphtha, which is made from crude tall oil, a byproduct of the paper pulp process. The bio-composite version contains certified wood fibre (40-60%) or cellulose fibres (30-50%). Based almost entirely on renewable materials, it provides a drop-in replacement for fossil-based PP. It is recyclable and suitable for food contact applications.

Traceless bio-based packaging materials are being developed as a drop-in replacement for conventional fossil-based plastics such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The material is derived from second-generation biomass which would typically be sold as animal feed. The home compostable materials under development include coatings, films, and rigid packaging. Image Traceless.

Tipa packaging films are based on a mix of bio-based and petroleum based compostable plastic. The quantity of bio-based ingredients ranges from 20-80% depending on the requirements of the application. They are certified compostable, but not always at home. Image Tipa.

ThermHex uses the EconCore developed production technique for creating continuous polypropylene (PP) honeycomb in thicknesses ranging from 3-28 mm. Image ThermHex.

Terralene by FKuR includes a range of partially bio-based polyolefins — polyethylene (bio-PE) and polypropylene (bio-PP) — for extrusion blow moulding, extruded profiles and injection moulding. It is suitable for the production of packaging containers that require odour neutrality, good water barrier properties and chemical resistance. Image FKuR.

Tellus plant fibre moulded food packaging is made with bagasse and is certified industrially compostable. They are suitable for hot and cold food, and contain no added PFAS. Image Tellus.

Technipol Bio by Sipol is a range of biodegradable co-polyesters with up to 90% renewable ingredients, based on polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), for example. Properties range from low melt-temperature resins suitable as hot melt adhesive (shoe making) to relatively high hardness and high melting temperature bioplastic with performances close to polypropylene (PP). Image Sipol.

Syntegon thermoforming process for paper and paper-based (laminated or coated) packaging materials enables the production of trays, pods, blister packs and pouches. Image Syntegon.

Sylvicta is a translucent paper for packaging applications made by Arjowiggins using micro fibrillated cellulose (MFC). Providing a barrier to oxygen, mineral oils and fatty grease, the pioneering paper is fully recyclable, compostable and marine degradable. It provides a plastic free alternative to packaging films such as made from polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester.

Sway seaweed packaging. Cast as transparent films, they offer a renewable and compostable alternative to packaging plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester. Their products include TPSea melt-processable pellets for film extrusion, TPSea Flex which mixes seaweed with bioplastic for bags and wrappers, and prefabricated bags using TPSea Flex. Image Sway.

Sulapac includes an innovative range of bio-based plastics and composites suitable for injection moulding, thermoforming and 3D printing. Various biodegradable polyesters are blended to ensure optimum properties depending on the requirements. Including wood or other water absorbing additives draws moisture into the plastic and so initiates biodegradation from within, accelerating the composting process. This opens up a wider range of applications, especially within packaging. Ranging from 70-100% renewable ingredients, the materials are industrially compostable and recyclable. Image Sulapac.

The Nu Company Repaq home compostable cellulose packaging films offer excellent transparency and gloss, high barrier to oxygen, grease resistance, chemical resistance and can be printed and heat-sealed. Image The Nu Company.

Remake paper by Favini is made with 25% leather waste and 40% post-consumer paper. Image Favini.

Refit paper by Favini is produced with 15% wool and cotton textile residues and 40% post-consumer paper. Refit wool paper uses the residue of the carding and spinning process, and Refit Cotton takes waste from weaving and spinning cotton. Image Favini.

Piñayarn by Ananas Anam is a textile fibre made from waste pineapple leaves. Production is closed-loop and the dry spinning process used requires no water or harmful chemicals. The fibre is blended with other natural fibres to create breathable and biodegradable textiles for fashion, interiors and packaging. Image Ananas Anam.

Phact is an amorphous polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), a biodegradable polyester produced by CJ Biomaterials, that is suitable for food contact applications including rigid and flexible packaging, food serviceware and other products. Amorphous PHA is relatively soft and rubbery, offering fundamentally different performance characteristics than crystalline or semi-crystalline forms of the biopolymer. It is a bio-based material that is certified for industrial and home compost, soil biodegradable and marine biodegradable. When combined with other bioplastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA), it enhances the biodegradability and compostability of products. Image CJ Biomaterials.

Paptic wood based packaging material is made with a mix of up to 85% wood fibre and bio-based biodegradable fibre. The paper-like material is made with longer fibres than conventional paper to produce a unique set of physical and visual properties. It can be folded, printed and sealed on regular plastic conversion lines, but is disposed along with paper waste at the end of its useful life. Image Paptic.

PaperFoam consists of starch, natural fibres, water and a proprietary premix. It provides a lightweight, protective and home compostable packaging solution. It provides a bio-based and biodegradable alternative to expanded polystyrene (EPS), styrofoam. Image PaperFoam.

Paddy straw tray by Tipa is made with rice plantation waste. These compostable trays can be disposed of either with paper waste or in a home or industrial compost bin. Image Tipa.

Orange Fiber is produced from pastazzo, which is the by-products of citrus juice production and accounts for 60% of the weight of the fruit. Cellulose is extracted from the pulp and processed in partnership with Lenzing to make Tencel Limited Edition x Orange Fiber. Image Orange Fiber.

Notpla are compostable seaweed based paper coatings and packaging films that provide a plastic-free barrier to water and grease. After use, the packaging can be disposed in paper recycling, or home composted. Image Notpla.

NatureFlex home compostable cellulose packaging films offer excellent transparency and gloss, high barrier to oxygen, grease resistance, chemical resistance and can be printed and heat-sealed. Image Mamá Pacha Chocolate.

MycoComposite by Ecovative is a mushroom material that uses mycelium and agricultural waste to create lightweight composite panels suitable for packaging and interiors. They can be grown as flat panels, or directly into 3D forms such as to make mushroom packaging. Image DelOS.

Mycl Composite by Mycotech Lab is a biodegradable composite made from mushroom mycelium and agricultural waste that grows into 3D shapes. It is used for creating products, interiors, installations and furniture. Image Mycotech Lab.

Mater-bi starch-based bioplastic by Novamont can be used in a wide variety of packaging applications including bags, pouches, sealing films, cling film plus ridged pots, trays and lids. It is designed to be used on existing blown, cast film, thermoformed and injection moulding equipment used for traditional plastics. Image Novamont.

Masonite hardboard does not require additional adhesive – the lignin already present in the wood acts as a binder. The wet wood fibre mix is laid onto a mesh (similar to paper making) and some of the water pressed out before final high-pressure forming into a panel with heat.

Mango Materials bio-based polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) biodegradable polyester provides an alternative to fossil-based synthetics in fashion, textiles and injection moulded products. They are pioneering a process with YOPP+ to convert excess methane into PHA. Image Mango Materials.

Luminy by Total Corbion includes a portfolio of bio-based and industrially compostable polylactic acid (PLA) includes both high heat and standard PLA grades and is used in a wide range of markets from packaging to durable consumer goods and electronics. Image Total Corbion.

Lactips is a promising technology development based on 100% bio-sourced casein-based plastic-like material that is biodegradable in water and home compostable. Derived from milk protein, it is not classed as a plastic, and is being developed as a plastic-free packaging film and coating solution for paper or cardboard packaging with a view to strengthening the protection and conservation of food products without impacting their recycling or compostability. Image BASF.

Paper packaging from 100% unbleached and uncoated, calendered kraft paper, suitable for frozen foods. Introduced by FRoSTA in 2020, it costs 0.2 usd more per pack, and there is a risk of tearing on defrosting, but saves 320 tons plastic per year at FRoSTA alone. Image FRoSTA.

NatureWorks Ingeo polylactic acid (PLA) provides compostable packaging for food and beverages such as coffee, dairy, dry foods, produce and bakery goods. It is suitable for ultrasonic welding, such as used to seal coffee pods, which creates an effective oxygen barrier without the need for a secondary packaging. Image NatureWorks.

Hydro Reduxa is a series of low-carbon aluminium alloys. While the average kgCO2/kg for aluminium is around 15, Hydro Reduxa is 4. The reduction is achieved through the use of renewable energy (hydropower) and integrated manufacturing at Hydro‘s plants in Norway. Image Hydro.

Hexacomb paper honeycomb used in packaging and as a core material in sandwich packaging. Image Hexacomb.

Green Cell Foam by KTM Industries is a starch-based bioplastic derived from corn. It provides an compostable alternative to expanded polystyrene (EPS) and expanded polylactic acid (PLA) in packaging applications. Image KTM Industries.

Grasspaper (Graspapier) by Creapaper is paper made from wood fibre mixed with 30-50% grass and is suitable for packaging and stationary. Replacing some of the wood pulp with grass saves water, energy and CO2. Image Creapaper.

Gmund cotton paper made with 100% cotton, distributed by G.F Smith. Image Gmund.

Gmund Bio Cycle paper is made with a mix of wood fibre and up to 50% recycled plant fibre, such as wheat straw, grass, cotton and hemp. It is compostable and recyclable end of life. Distributed by G.F Smith. Image Gmund.

Gmund Bier paper is made with a mix of wood fibre and leftovers from beer productions, including hops, malt and yeast. Distributed by G.F Smith. Image Gmund.

GeoWise GeoBag stand-up pouch made with paper and polylactic acid (PLA). This combination is fossil-free and suitable for industrial compositing. Image GeoWise.

Geami WrapPak honeycomb mesh paper wrapping by Ranpak. Image Ranpak.

Forest Film labels by UPM Raflatac are made from wood-based raw materials. Crude tall oil, a by-product of the paper pulping process is converted into bio-based polypropylene (bio-PP) and polyethylene (bio-PE), cutting out the use of fossil fuels. Made from renewable ingredients, these bio-based plastics are fully recyclable along with fossil types. Image UPM Raflatac.

Flupis by Hellbut is made from recycled paper mixed with starch. It is foamed with steam to produce loose fill packaging. It is compostable and recyclable. Image Hellbut.

Flexi-Hex honeycomb paper mesh for packaging. Image Flexi-Hex.

FibreForm thermo-formable paper packaging material by Billerud. Produced with a modified type of kraft pulp, it is more formable than regular paper, and can be shaped into trays, blister packs and pouches. Image Billerud.

Extract paper by G.F Smith is produced with paper from recycled coffee cups in partnership with CupCycling. 95% of the coffee cup is paper and so can be recycled. The remaining 5% is a plastic liner, typically polyethylene (PE), which is incinerated for energy recovery in the process. Image G.F Smith.

Evoware edible and biodegradable seaweed-based film for packaging. Image Evoware.

Ecovio EZ by BASF is compostable foam packaging made up of a mixture of BASF Ecoflex compostable plastic, polylactic acid (PLA) and additives. It provides an alternative to expanded polystyrene (EPS) and is certified compostable in industrial facilities. Image BASF.

Ecovio by BASF is compostable packaging film made up of a mixture of BASF Ecoflex compostable plastic, polylactic acid (PLA) and additives. In contrast to starch-based bioplastics, Ecovio is more resistant to mechanical stress and moisture. It is printable and weldable, and certified compostable in industrial facilities. Image BASF.

Ecoplas by Greenhope is a biodegradable bio-based plastic made from starch derived from certified fair trade cassava in Indonesia. Image Greenhope.

EcoPaXX by DSM is a high-performance 72% bio-based polyamide (bio-PA410), nylon, that combines low moisture uptake with high mechanical performance. The bio-based content is produce from castor oil and the balance is fossil based. It is suitable for packaging, plumbing and water management systems, household equipment, automotive and electrical. Image DSM.

EcoFlexy by Cellugy is a cellulose product made through bacterial fermentation of sugar from vegetable waste from agriculture. It has potential as a coating on paper and textiles to enhance properties for packaging applications, for example, such as providing a fossil-free, compostable and recyclable waterproof barrier. Image Cellugy.

Ecoflex by BASF is a certified compostable fossil-based polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT), a type of co-polyester. Suitable for processing on the same machines as polyethylene (PE) film, it is approved for food contact and can be printed and welded like PE. As well as being used alone in blown film applications, it provides a crucial blend component for the production of plastics from renewable raw materials like polylactic acid (PLA). Image BASF.

Earthfilm by Sirane is a paper based packaging film that can be formed into pouches (Earthpouch). Paper is combined with bioplastic to create a recyclable and compostable alternative to regular plastic film packaging. The bioplastic coating provides a barrier to grease, oxygen and moisture, without compromising recyclability. It is also heat-sealable. Image Sirane.

Dufaylite recycled paper honeycomb. It is used in packaging, for graphics applications, and in construction as Clayboard (to prevent damage from ground and soil heave under floor slabs and foundations). Image Dufaylite.

The dry molded fiber process, developed by Pulpac, removes most of the water from paper pulp moulding, which helps to increase efficiency, reduce cycle time, and minimise carbon footprint. An independently-validated LCA concluded that dry molded fibre single use cutlery had a carbon footprint of 0.66 kgCO2e/kg – at the low end of moulded pulp. The process uses regular mechanically ground wood fibre pulp, which is air laid to form a nonwoven web, barriers are applied to meet application requirements (coated for water repellency, for example), and it is hot-pressed into three-dimensional products. Applications include packaging and single use cutlery. Image Pulpac.

Crush paper by Favini is made with a mix of paper with 40% recycled fibre and 15% citrus fruit, coconut, cocoa, grapes, cherries, lavender, corn, olive, coffee, kiwi, hazelnuts and almonds – byproducts and waste from agriculture.

Copar wheat straw moulded food packaging, produced from agricultural waste products, is compostable and has no added PFAS. Image Copar.

Compostella wax paper is a greaseproof packaging paper produced with a thin coating of carnauba wax. It is suitable for use with moist foods such as smoked fish, cooked ham and goat’s cheese, as well as sausage, cheese and vegetables. It is unbleached, home compostable and provides a sustainable alternative to paraffin wax-coated or plastic-laminated paper. Image Compostella.

Cocolok by Enkev is made up of 60% coconut fibres mixed with 40% natural rubber latex and pressed into sheets suitable for packaging, upholstery and insulation. Image Enkev.

Cocoform by Enkev is made up of 60% coconut fibres mixed with 40% natural rubber latex and pressed into 3D shapes. It is suitable for use in things like filters, shoes, upholstery and automotive interior parts. Image Enkev.

Celova micro fibrillated cellulose (MFC) and cellulose powder by Weidmann suitable for converting into paper, textile, barrier coatings, packaging, fibre composites and cement products. Image Weidmann.

Cardia Bioplastics Compostable starch-based bioplastic films for bags, paper coatings and laminates, blow mouldings and cast film. The material is suitable for composting in home or industrial facilities. Image Cardia Bioplastics.

Copper mining and smelting have a significant carbon footprint. The global average, according to the International Copper Association (ICA), is 2.3 kgCOe/kg. Boliden low-carbon copper, produced with renewable energy and recycled contents (up to 100%), has a reduced carbon footprint of 1.5 kgCO2e/kg. The primary raw material for Boliden’s recycled copper is used electronics. Image Boliden.

Biotrem disposal tableware is produced from edible wheat bran pressed into plates and bowls. 1 ton of bran yields around 10,000 units. At the end of their life, they are home compostable and breakdown in 30 days. Image Biotrem.

BioPBS polybutylene succinate (PBS) produced in a joint venture between Mitsubishi Chemical Company and PTT Global Chemical Public Company. This grade of biodegradable co-polyester is derived from biomass, such as sugarcane and cassava, and decomposes into water and CO2 with the microorganism under the soil in ambient conditions (30 degC) – it is suitable for home composting and doesn’t require any specialised facilities. PBS has relatively good heat resistance compared to other biodegradable plastics and can be converted into a fibre. It is applied as a coating to paper, such as for disposable coffee cups, as an injection moulding resin and flexible packaging. Image Mitsubishi.

Biolo bioplastic film packaging manufactured from plant-based polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), biodegradable polyester, and suitable for home composting. Biolo are a subsidiary of Columbia Packaging Group with expertise in flexographic printing and conversion, providing high-quality bag, pouch, and roll stock products. Image Biolo.

BioFoam by Bewi is an expanded polylactic acid (EPLA), providing an alternative to expanded polystyrene (EPS) in packaging applications. Image Bewi.

Bio-Flex by FKuR is a certified industrially compostable and partially bio-based polylactic acid (PLA) suitable for flexible film applications, such as agricultural, household and hygiene films, but are also used in injection moulded products or thermoformed articles. Image FKuR.

Banana fibre paper produced with leftovers from banana agriculture. It is suitable for stationary and packaging. Image Perfect Paper Company.

Banana fibre moulded packaging by Papyrus Australia. Banana plantation waste is converted into fibre and biodegradable food packaging products. Image Papyrus Australia.

Avani compostable bio-based plastic packaging films are produced from starch derived from cassava. It is home compostable and recyclable with paper. Image Avani.

Avantium polyethylene furanoate (PEF), bio-based polyester is suitable as a fossil-free replacement for polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester, such as in packaging applications. It is recyclable, but not biodegradable. Image Avantium.

DSM Arnitel Eco is a high-performance partially bio-based thermoplastic co-polyester elastomer (bio-TPC) made with rapeseed oil. It is suitable for use in consumer products (providing soft touch in 2k injection moulding applications), sports, textile membranes, automotive, furniture (suspension fabrics) and packaging. Image Sympatex.

Arekapak palm leaf packaging. Made without plastics, coatings or additives, Areca palm leaves are dried and pressed into trays and boxes. Image Arekapak.

Arboform by Tecnaro, also called liquid wood, is made up of around 30% lignosulfonate (LS) – a byproduct of papermaking – 60% fibre and around 10% polylactic acid (PLA) additives. While preparation is not quite the same as for conventional plastics, it can be injection moulded on regular thermoplastic forming machines. The recipe depends on the requirements of the application.