Biodegradable packaging: 5 companies to watch

MarinaTex: converting fish industry waste to new packaging

MarinaTex is a company that specializes in utilizing waste products from the fish processing industry to create sustainable and innovative materials. The company was founded by Lucy Hughes, who developed an interest in using waste products and finding inspiration in nature.

MarinaTex is based on the principles of the circular economy, which aims to minimize waste and make the most of available resources. The company's products are bio-based and are designed to be functional during their use phase and easy to dispose of correctly at the end of their life.

Ingestable film packaging

MarinaTex has positioned itself as a sustainable alternative to plastic film, marking a significant stride towards eco-friendly packaging. The material, a recipient of the prestigious James Dyson Award in 2019, has been developed to replace plastic in a multitude of applications ranging from bags to single-use packaging.

What sets MarinaTex apart is its biodegradability in soil environments and its versatility. The transparent film is not only well-suited for packaging but also safe for wildlife and humans as it doesn’t leach harmful chemicals.

Neuro Pack: keeping fruits and food fresh

Neuro Pack is a Korean company that specializes in alternative packaging materials. The team comprises specialists in packaging science who are dedicated to researching and developing innovative packaging solutions such as freshness-preserving materials and biodegradable plastics. Their goal is to deliver alternative packaging options that help extend the shelf life of fruits and fresh foods. Neuro Pack is committed to commercializing its research to provide practical, real-life solutions for the agricultural and food industries.

Biodegradable film from seaweed

Neuro Pack's seaweed bio-PE Film is designed in response to environmental and social issues. The film is manufactured using harmful seaweeds found in abundance along the southern coast of Korea, which damage the local landscape and aquaculture. The seaweed Bio-PE Film is a biodegradable film that replaces food raw materials like corn and sugar cane commonly used in eco-friendly films. This shift reduces the competition for food resources.

PHAXTEC: PHA-based plastic alternative

Founded by Anindya Mukherjee in 2019, PHAXTEC combines material science with biotechnology to deliver innovative solutions across food-service packaging, agriculture, and personal care markets. The company leverages renewable carbon sources and circular PHA material solutions to create recyclable and compostable products. PHAXTEC's dedication to using biogas and locally available inputs for their production process significantly reduces carbon emissions and eliminates competition with food resources.

Biodegrades like cellulose

PHAXTEC’s PHA-based products, similar to cellulose, are biodegradable, home and industrially compostable, and recyclable. The company's product is versatile, comparing well with fossil plastics like Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polystyrene, ABS, PET, and more. These PHA biopolymers can be used in various applications, including paper coatings and single-use packaging.

Novamont: decades of creating new solutions

Founded in 1989, Novamont is an Italy-based bioplastic and biochemical development company. They develop bioplastics and bio-based products that contribute to the protection of ecosystems and natural capital. Their innovations are based on a circular bioeconomy model, which includes reconverting decommissioned industrial sites, utilizing agricultural value chains that don’t compete with food production, and designing products to address specific environmental concerns related to soil and water quality.

Plastic-like, but it biodegrades

MATER-BI, Novamont's innovative family of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics, is a product of extensive research and innovation. It is made from pioneering proprietary technologies utilizing starches, cellulose, and vegetable oils. The production of MATER-BI involves three Italian production facilities that have been transformed into innovative industrial plants in line with Novamont's bioeconomy model, which focuses on regional regeneration. MATER-BI’s properties and characteristics closely resemble those of traditional plastics. Yet, unlike its traditional counterparts, MATER-BI is fully biodegradable and compostable in compliance. The material promotes optimal organic waste management practices.

packlock: lock it away safely

packlock is an innovative packaging solution developed by IDEEWISS AG, a Swiss-based company committed to creating products that solve specific problems. The company, along with its sister company INNORESE, which develops future-oriented products and technologies, takes pride in being at the forefront of innovation that makes a difference.

Made with safety in mind

With 77% of medications consumed by individuals over 60, packlock introduced an innovative blister pack system that ensures both child safety and convenience for seniors. The packlock system addresses the significant issue of infants and small children swallowing button cell batteries, which can result in severe chemical burns. Their child-proof, senior-friendly packaging solution is made from cast fiber and monofilm, featuring a closure seal and the ability to hang on conventional retail shelves.