Dive Brief:
- Researchers have developed a biodegradable film that could be used to eliminate one of the top culprits contributing to worldwide ocean pollution -- plastic bags.
- EcoCortec, a packaging producer based in Croatia, created “EcoOcean” flexible packaging. The materials are made using biobased PHA polymer technology, a substance that is biodegradable in a marine environment.
- The material disintegrates through the process of anaerobic digestion in marine, soil, and other aqueous conditions. It is also purported to work effectively in composting systems.
Dive Insight:
EcoCortec, a branch of St. Paul, MN-based Cortec Corp., reports that the bags are comprised of 77% biobased materials. The bags and film will be marketed toward the European travel industry and in areas with nearby waterways.
In June 2014, the U.S. State Department announced it would work to eliminate ocean pollution via its “Trash Free Water” program, which aims to destroy waste sources before they reach the ocean.
The biodegradable bag project is a targeted effort by the company to promote sustainability and move technology forward. One strategic goal is to influence policy changes in Europe that promote anti-pollution efforts. Over on this side of the pond, a California-based reusable bag manufacturer expects to see big production gains if the state enacts a plastic film bag ban.
