In the United Kingdom, biodegradable plastic company Polymateria has partnered with specialty chemical company Clariant to bring Polymateria’s biotransformation technology to Southeast Asia.
Polymateria and Clariant have decided to focus on South East Asia as this is the main source of “fugitive” plastic globally. Fugitive plastic is the 32% of plastic each year which escapes the circular economy and leaks into the natural environment.
The partnership will combine Polymateria’s technology, which uses renewable raw materials, and Clariant’s Masterbatch expertise.
“Clariant Masterbatches has a clear strategy towards sustainability, supporting recycling, bioplastics and biodegradation through partnerships,” says Dr. Jan Sueltemeyer, Global Head of Innovation & Sustainability at Clariant. “Polymateria provides a missing link for us and we are excited to bring this technology to regions of the world where fugitive plastic is greatest.
The announcement was made at the recent K Show in Düsseldorf, Germany.