FDBusiness.com

Italian bioplastics company Novamont is calling on the foodservice industry to invest in compostable biodegradable bioplastics.

Adding to the recent media debate around paper cup recycling, the company is promoting it’s Mater-Bi family of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics which use renewable resources.

Paul Darby, area manager UK & Ireland, Novamont, told Packaging News the material has already been proven in Italy where some high street retailers have successfully rolled out Mater-Bi products.

“Everything that is plastic and related to food is now able to be collected and transformed into compost and thus recycled back into agriculture. Around 700 million compostable cups have been used on the Italian market in 2015. It should also be noted that a compostable coffee cup can also be recovered and processed through a paper cup recycling process which is currently available on a small scale should this option be available and preferred.”

Additionally, Darby said the new law in France banning all plastic cups and cutlery that are not made of biologically-sourced materials should be seen as a business opportunity to help drive innovation and create new jobs throughout the supply chain.
“Novamont is already working closely with some UK based manufacturers who are being pro-active and plan to launch compostable bioplastic packaging solutions way before the legislation date. A compostable packaging range can offer an alternative choice and feel good factor to the consumer and even help build on a company’s brand and identity.”

Novamont recorded a turnover of €170m in 2015, with a production capacity of 150KT.