In France, specialty chemical maker Arkema has converted its full line of acrylic thickeners produced in Europe to 30% biobased content. The move lowers the product carbon footprint of the specialty additives—frequently used in coatings and adhesives—by 25%. “Used in architectural paints, industrial coatings, plasters, renders, adhesives, sealants, and various applications to optimize the rheology […]
In the United Arab Emirates, Emirates Biotech has selected SAMSUNG E&A as the contractor for its upcoming polylactic acid production plant in the United Arab Emirates. The project, officially named Falcon PLA Project, will produce a biodegradable and environmentally friendly plastic alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The plant, expected to be operational in early 2028, will […]
In Australia, wallet and bag leader Bellroy will use sustainable materials produced by Modern Meadow in select consumer “carry goods.” Specifically, Bellroy will use Modern Meadow’s INNOVERA biomaterial (formerly known as BIO-VERA). INNOVERA is engineered with plant-based proteins, biopolymers and post-consumer waste to replicate the look and feel of the collagen found in leather. “With […]
In London, sustainable materials and fashion brand PANGAIA has launched a new athletic wear line from 100% castor oil-based polyamide. Dubbed PLNT Nylon, the all-black collection includes a jacket, blouson, and track pants. Details like zippers are made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate. PANGAIA recently told hypebeast that the collection is a direct response to the […]
In California, Buscar Company, a diversified holding company focused on natural resources and sustainable energy, has acquired a 50% stake in hemp bioplastics makter Terramer through a strategic stock swap transaction. Terramer has developed TERBO-1000, a proprietary hemp-based bioplastic that is 100% biodegradable within 180 days and leaves no microplastic residue. The company operates a […]
In China, biobased materials company Covation Biomaterials is set to launch CovationBio bioPTMEG, a biobased polytetramethylene ether glycol. BioPTMEG is a biobased alternative to petroleum-based PTMEG, helping customers reduce their reliance on non-renewable materials and maintain the durability and resilience expected of spandex, polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers. Feedstock is 100% biobased and obtained from annually […]
In Connecticut, a manufacturer of cow manure-based seed starters made a lucrative deal on a recent episode of the popular ABC entrepreneur showcase, Shark Tank. During the episode, CowPot founder Amanda Freund successfully pitched the biodegradable poop plant pots, ultimately negotiating a $200,000 investment in exchange for a 20% stake with veteran Shark, Kevin O’Leary. […]
In Colorado, researchers at the ATLAS Institute have created biodegradable press-on nails made from algae agar and chitosan sourced seashells. Dubbed Bio-e-Nails, the University of Colorado group said the customizable press-on nails can also be reshaped multiple times. “With Bio-e-Nails, there can be a second life, a third life, a fourth life,” said lead developer […]
In Virginia, designers at Virginia Tech have created the Sustainable Art Painting kit, which provides the directions and tools necessary to convert food waste into natural watercolor paint. Led by Jung Choi Yoon, a Virginia Tech assistant professor of industrial design, the kit offers an outlet for the 90 billion lbs of food waste US […]
In Germany, chemicals giant BASF has expanded its portfolio of natural-based ingredients with three new personal care products: Verdessence Maize, a natural styling polymer; Lamesoft OP Plus, a wax-based opacifier dispersion; and Dehyton PK45 GA/RA, a betaine derived from Rainforest Alliance Certified coconut oil. Verdessence Maize is a biodegradable alternative to PVP and VP/VA polymers […]
