The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and Murdoch University have launched a new Bioplastics Innovation Hub, to develop a new generation of 100% compostable plastic.

The AUD 8 million (approx. $5.4m) project aims to ‘revolutionise’ the packaging landscape by developing biologically-derived plastic that can break down in compost, land or water.

Based at Murdoch University’s main campus in Perth, Western Australia, the hub will work with industry partners to address growing concerns around plastic waste, in alignment with CSIRO’s aim of reducing the amount of plastic waste that enters the Australian environment by 80% by 2030.

Andy Whiteley, CSIRO research programme director, said the hub will bring together experts in microbiology, molecular genetics, synthetic biology, biochemical engineering, advanced manufacturing and circular economy by translating advancements in bioplastics research to real-world applications.

Whiteley commented: “Our primary focus is the development of 100% compostable, bio-derived packaging for use as sprays, films, bottles, caps and wrappers which are engineered to fully break down in compost, land and in aquatic environments”.

The hub’s first key focus area will be a co-investment with Western Australian biotechnology company Ecopha, to develop a new process for water bottle production using compostable bioplastics derived from food industry waste products, such as cooking oil.

Peter Eastwood, Murdoch University’s deputy vice chancellor of research & innovation, said: “Together with CSIRO, Murdoch University will fast-track the production of novel compostable bioplastic and introduce a green plastic to the market which will significantly minimise the requirement for non-sustainable plastic production”.

He added: “We also aim to assist industry in establishing an advanced biomanufacturing sector, to commercialise compostable bioplastics that meet the manufacturing design needs and certification standards for 100 per cent biodegradation”.

“The outcomes of this project will boost the capability of Australia for commercial production of compostable bioplastics. In particular, the Hub meets the sector priority of increasing technical leadership of Australian manufacturing.”

Top image: © CSIRO

#Australia #bioplastics #packaging