The BioROOTGUARD research project aims to develop a biodegradable plastic film to protect young tree roots from cockchafer grubs and the invasive Japanese beetle. FKuR leads the consortium funded under Germany’s Sustainable Renewable Resources programme.
Blow Moulding Technologies says PET preforms that meet routine quality specifications can still behave differently during stretch blow moulding. The company points to thermal and blowing behaviour as critical factors in identifying variation before production.
Südpack is introducing Planova, a PLA-based film for packaging fresh herbs, cut flowers, and potted plants. The material is intended to combine bio-based origin, biodegradability under industrial conditions, and performance properties relevant for retail and horticulture.
Emirates Biotech will present Embio PLA biopolymers at Saudi Plastics & Petrochem 2026 in Riyadh. The event will also mark the official introduction of this portfolio to the Saudi market.
The SOUL project is developing 11 bio-based, soil-biodegradable solutions for agriculture, gardening and sports. AIMPLAS is responsible, among other things, for developing a tool to predict the biodegradability of materials under soil conditions.
At Interplas 2026 in Birmingham, Arburg will present two electric Allrounder Trend injection moulding machines. The company will focus its presentation on automation, digitalisation and sustainability, including the processing of a biodegradable biomaterial.
In Japan, the use of recyclates and bioplastics in packaging, automotive and other sectors is growing, while domestic plastics production declines. Regulatory changes, industry initiatives and supply chain restructuring are driving the transformation.
Emirates Biotech has joined the European Circle consortium, which aims to demonstrate a biorefinery converting food waste into bio-based chemicals, including polylactic acid (PLA). The company is responsible for the lactic acid polymerisation stage.
AIMPLAS organizes on 4–5 March the ninth edition of the International Seminar on Biopolymers and Sustainable Composites, focused on the latest material solutions, their industrial applications and current regulatory requirements.
The Biovalsa project, coordinated by AIMPLAS and co-funded by IVACE+i and ERDF, develops processes for producing bioplastics from agricultural waste such as rice straw and citrus pruning residues.
From 1 January 2026, an extended ban on selected single-use plastic products will enter into force in the United Arab Emirates. Plant-based PLA material remains exempt from the regulation as an accepted alternative.
Sukano, in collaboration with NatureWorks, has introduced a new antiblock masterbatch for biaxially oriented PLA (BOPLA) films to enhance barrier properties and processing on existing BOPP lines, addressing EU PPWR-driven demands for compostable small-format packaging.