A consortium led by the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University, UK, is working on the use of lignocellulosic feedstock to produce bio-based, biodegradable plastic packaging for consumer markets.
The consortium, ADMIT BioSuccInnovate, will convert locally-available wheat straw, miscanthus, or other lignocellulosic feedstock into plastic.
Funded by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT), the consortium includes bio-based succinic acid maker Reverdia as a lead partner.
A joint venture between global life sciences and materials sciences firm Royal DSM and starch and starch-derivatives company Roquette Frères, the Netherlands-based Reverdia produces succinic acid using yeast-based technology..
Reverdia will supply its succinic acid product Biosuccinium, while biorefining firm CIMV will support in developing plastic packaging.
IBERS project lead David Bryant said: "IBERS plays a key role in the project by leading on the plant science and coordinating biorefining activities for the production of bioplastics from succinic acid derived from lignocellulosic sugars.
"We chose to work with Reverdia as they have the capacity to deliver and license high-quality Biosuccinium today with proven best-in-class sustainable technology that achieves the best greenhouse gas savings."
The project is being undertaken in collaboration with UK retailer Waitrose and food tray producer Sharpak.
Waitrose manager of packaging and reprographics Karen Graley said: "The use of lignocellulosic feedstock for the production of bio-based plastic packaging from Biosuccinium is well-aligned with the ethos of treading lightly on the environment in the Waitrose way.
"We anticipate that this project will help contribute to Waitrose's sustainable packaging strategy for 2020 and beyond and endorse the partner's collaboration in making renewable packaging a commercial reality."
