In Australia, an exhibition at Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria is exploring how renewable materials such as fungi, algae and oyster shells can shape the future of design. Titled Plant Life: The Nature of Design, the exhibition features 60 works that use plant-based materials to reimagine everyday objects. “For most of human culture, up until […]
In the Netherlands, biobased chemicals producer Avantium has completed the spin-out of its Parana Technology business into Parana Materials B.V. The new, independent company is focused on the development and commercialization of plant-based, high-performance polyesters such as poly(isosorbide succinate), poly(isosorbide oxalate), poly(ethylene-co-isosorbide terephthalate) and poly(ethylene-co-isosorbide furanoate) (PEIF). The Parana Technology portfolio is distinct from Avantium’s furandicarboxylic […]
In France, fragrance giant Symrise has inaugurated a new production site for its natural fragrance ingredients brand Lautier 1795. Located in the Grasse region, the new site complements the company’s recent acquisition of premium natural scent ingredients producer Floral Concept. Modern technologies at the new facility support transformation, consistent quality and enhanced traceability. Close collaboration […]
In Germany, BASF, the world’s largest chemical maker, has confirmed exploratory talks to take over Evonik, a specialty chemicals giant with extensive activities in biobased products. “The course and outcome of these exploratory talks remain open at this stage,” BASF said in a press statement. BASF reported €59.66 billion (US$68.23 billion) in sales in 2025. […]
In Spain, Hinojosa Packaging Group has created a line of cellulose-based, biodegradable plant pots in partnership with tree and plant protection company Cuidatree. Featuring a 100% biobased coating, the bio-pot addresses a key challenge in agricultural and reforestation nurseries. Biodegradable pots are more sustainable than conventional plastic containers and can also be planted directly into […]
In Delaware, Ashland Inc. has launched agrimer™ eco-disperse OD TVO™ polymeric dispersant, a patented, vegetable oil-based dispersant developed for non-aqueous crop protection formulations. agrimer™ eco-disperse OD helps improve dispersion stability, enhance leaf adhesion, coverage and rain fastness. The technology reduces common formulation challenges such as active ingredient settling and nozzle clogging, helping customers improve product […]
In the United Kingdom, seaweed-based materials startup Kelpi has partnered with cleaning product B Corp Bower Collective to launch what the companies call the world’s first paper sachet containing a liquid product. The sample box contains three 5 mL sachets of Bower Collective’s bestselling Hand Wash scents — Orange Blossom & Mimosa, Pistachio & Vanilla, […]
In Mexico, Polybion’s cultivated bacterial cellulose has been used in three looks by designer Patricio Campillo during the recent New York Fashion Week. Polybion uses microbial fermentation to convert food waste into plant-based materials. Production takes place at Polybion’s facility in Irapuato, Guanajuato, near the fruit-packing industry that provides its feedstock. Polybion did not reveal whether […]
In the United Kingdom, Smithers-Oasis UK has expanded its plant-based OASIS® Renewal® Floral Foam range to different shapes, expanding what is possible for sustainable floral arrangements. Made from 80% plant-based resources, the new floral foams are practical for everything from sympathy flowers to event work. The foam has similar support and water retention characteristics as […]
In Ohio, Airable Research Lab, a division of the Ohio Soybean Council, has partnered with Warsaw Chemical to commercialize a soy-enhanced asphalt release agent. Dubbed BIO-SLIDE, the 30% biobased solution showed effective asphalt release, coating stability and sustained performance through multiple high-temperature cycles. It is suitable for applications throughout the paving industry and creates a […]
