Packaging specialist BioPak has launched of its PHA range, an innovation that is set to revolutionise the home-compostable cup industry.
PHA (short for polyhydroxyalkanoate) is an innovative material that is a biopolymer (meaning it’s produced from living organisms). It is produced through a fermentation process using renewable resources such as plant sugars and vegetable oils; similar to brewing beer.
The final result is a cup that aligns with the circular economy. It’s made from bio-based renewable resources, such as FSCTM responsibly sourced paper and PHA lining, meaning the cup doesn’t contain any fossil-based materials. PHA-lined cups are home compostable at the end of their life.
As the first company to bring PHA to the Australian market, BioPak CEO Gary Smith commented on the significance of this innovation and its capabilities for the future of compostable packaging solutions.
“We are incredibly proud and excited to be the first to bring this ground-breaking product to Australia,” said Smith. “PHA has been a long time in the making, with our dedicated team working tirelessly to bring this product to market. As a B Corp, we are always striving to do better and be at the forefront of innovation and R&D, and today marks a historic moment for our industry as we take one step closer to circularity and reducing our impact on the planet.”
A notable factor of the innovation is that the PHA resin is certified marine biodegradable – meaning that it will break down significantly faster (it needs to biodegrade in marine settings in less than 180 days) than conventional plastic if it ends up in the ocean.
“This is a breakthrough in bioplastics. However, our products are not designed to be
disposed of in the marine environment, so we won’t be advertising it on the cup. Its ability to biodegrade quickly is not a license to litter, but an opportunity to have an end of life solution for people with access to a home compost” Smith continued.
Expected to launch later this year, PHA will be certified home compostable to Australian and European Standards (AS5810 and NFT51-800), with BioPak PHA lined BioCups available in 8oz, 12oz and 16oz single wall cups.