A breakthrough has been made in the world of sustainable plastics, with the collaboration of EcoPHA and Terra Sol. These award-winning industry leaders will transform the accessibility and functionality of plastic-free solutions.
Terra Sol is a compostable leader in the sustainable packaging industry, seen through their designs that use reusable products. EcoPHA is a biotechnology company that specialises in PHA bioplastics, a class of bioplastics that are produced through the fermentation of renewable resources. In this case, the PHA bioplastics are made from Pongamia oil, derived from the Pongamia tree, which is a tree native to Australia.
EcoPHA utilising the Pongamia tree is a breakthrough because not only does it allow renewable plastics to be more environmentally friendly because they can be produced from resources already available, but it also eliminates the possibility of competing with food crops. Other corn and soy-based bioplastics compete with food chains, but the Pongamia tree is not edible.
New standard for the future of the bioplastics industry
This innovative invention has set a new standard for sustainable materials for the future of families and businesses. The collaboration of these two companies has resulted in truly home-compostable and commercially viable alternatives to plastic that is traditionally produced through fossil fuel. This will allow businesses to adapt to consumer demand for plastic-free alternatives.
This non-toxic plastic alternative will offer packaging, food service, mining, and manufacturing industries a cost-effective and full solution to reduce plastic waste. EcoPHA’s invention, paired with Terra Sol’s experience in the design industry ensures the product will advance from the lab into the market for businesses across the globe.
Louise Sykes, the CEO of Terra Sol, claims that their collaboration with EcoPHA is powerful because it combines both company’s strengths in order to solve the global need for a plastic waste reduction.
This is the first product of its time that offers a compostable packaging solution to incorporate sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and real-world application. No other industrial bioplastic breaks down completely and naturally in compost or soil, but PHA is 100% compostable, meaning zero microplastics are left behind through its use.
Terra Sol has designed PHA-based lids, cups, straws, and cutlery in order to allow businesses to remain sustainable through affordable options. EcoPHA’s Pongamia oil-based PHA products also allow businesses to earn carbon credits that will offset production costs and encourage other industries to also choose sustainable packaging options.
Terra Sol and EcoPHA are working to expand their influence on corporate sustainability worldwide. They have successfully secured their first commercial sale in Australia, and they look to continue to expand their global presence.
The partnership is aiming to overcome the typical barriers compostable materials face, such as high production costs. By manufacturing in Australia, they have reduced emissions associated with transportation, and they have secured reliable supply chains to best produce their PHA products.
To best work toward a waste-free future, EcoPHA and Terra Sol are collaborating with waste management and government policy leaders to ensure that PHA-based packaging is integrated into composting infrastructure.
If plastic use continues, the need for a replacement is more pressing than ever. PHA bioplastics are the most sustainable and renewable option we have yet, and they will prevent companies from contributing to long-term pollution and limiting carbon footprints globally.
Australia is currently the global leader in PHA bioplastics, and the new utilisation of Pongamia oil increases the opportunities available for sustainable packaging globally. Terra Sol and EcoPHA strive to make 100% compostable solutions the new standard for retail and industrial packaging needs.
If you are looking to learn more about bioplastics, check out this story on the future of plastic packaging!