A World Without Plastic?

Is human reliance on plastic set to reach an end? Turns out ending plastic pollution could be a big win for our pockets.

The best part is that these stats are based on existing technologies that are already in practice.

These will also reduce other costs, including:

• Human health

• Air pollution

• Water pollution

• Environmental litigation

Innovation in plastic alternatives

Beating plastic waste requires unprecedented action from businesses and governments. Did you know that 40% of all plastic waste is from packaging? And more often than not, it’s single-use. The best packaging is minimal and reusable – steel tiffin boxes and glass milk bottles, for example. But in our current supply chain, it’s not always immediately practical. So what’s the alternative?

Well, among the many innovations you’ll find mushrooms, pineapples, and seaweed taking the frontline in helping us achieve this goal!

Check out these companies that are determined to eradicate plastic packaging with state-of-the-art solutions:

• Notpla – London-based startup making natural and biodegradable alternatives made from seaweed and plants that, after disposal, disappears within a few weeks.

• Ecovative – From New York, this firm grows alternative packaging solutions using hemp hurd and mycelium!

• Newlight Technologies – Based out of the US, this brand produces Air Carbon – foodware made using a combination of air and carbon.

• Orgro Fibre – Manufacturing textiles out of Indian agricultural waste, the result is beautiful and fully biodegradable sapling bags to substitute single-use plastic wrap.

• Mi Terro® – Engineers in the US have upcycled plant leftovers to replace microplastics in packaging materials. Made from biomass, they’re completely home compostable and marine degradable.

• LOLIWARE – Producing its own seaweed-based pellet, this US company’s technology is ready to substitute plastic using existing machinery.

• Ananas Anam – From London, this company sources pineapple leaves from the Philippines to produce a viable polyester-free textile that can be used in the fashion industry.

• twiice – Inspired by a swim and a warm cup of coffee, this New Zealand company specialises in making edible and tasty coffee cups.

University research on plastic alternatives

Experts at the University of Hong Kong are also studying a cellulose film that is just as strong and sturdy as plastic but has the added benefit of decomposing within two months of exposure to water or soil.

While this isn’t good for wet products or in humid climates, it has much potential. What we don’t yet know is how this competes on price.

Embracing a circular economy

It’s time to transition towards a more circular relationship with your packaging and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation has some wonderful tips for eliminating the existing ‘take-make-waste’ model from your business.

Seeking some reuse & refill expertise in your business? Check out our good friend Catherine Conway of GoUnpackaged!