In Belgrade, a packaging startup has developed a bioplastic using bark—an underutilized waste from timber processing—and used coffee grounds. According to AgFunderNews, Bpacks’ material can replace conventional plastics in packaging produce, meat, and other goods.
While capacity remains small, cofounder Mikhail Skalkin believes Bpacks has an edge over other bioplastics when it comes to marketability. “Traditional bio packaging often struggles to compete with its plastic counterparts in terms of pricing and integration complexity,” Skalkin said. “Our bio-based plastic substitute can be manufactured using existing plastic production equipment, eliminating the need for plastic factories to purchase new equipment.”
Annually, over 300 million cubic meters of waste bark is generated. Bpack’s material also decomposes in wet soil in under 2 months and is also suitable for home composters.