In Georgia, Danimer Scientific says it has created the world’s first fully biodegradable straw using its Nodax™ polyhydroxyalkanoate biopolymer. The innovation comes as many regions and restaurant chains ban straws over marine waste concerns.
“The environmental impact of straws and other single-use plastic items has become a critical issue for cities and companies across the country,” says Scott Tuten, chief marketing officer at Danimer Scientific. “The challenge is that there are few durable, yet eco-friendly alternatives available. Thankfully, research has found that PHA effectively biodegrades in environments ranging from waste treatment facilities to landfills and oceans. With that stamp of approval, we are excited to be bringing truly biodegradable straw resins in the near future to businesses that are looking to replace petrochemical plastic straws in restaurants, amusement parks and more.”
Danimer says a recent University of Georgia study found Nodax biodegrades at a similar rate to wood pulp and can be processed along with other organic waste. In ocean water, Nodax biodegrades in six months.