Novamont acquires Biobag and strengthens its global presence

Understanding what certification marks cover and why local waste infrastructure matters. Compostability certifications define the conditions under which a product is expected to break down. Here, we explain the differences between industrial and home composting, the main certification schemes and why local waste infrastructure still matters.

The EU continues to strengthen its approach to waste and circular economy. On paper, this makes sense. But in practice, it raises a more difficult question: what does it actually take to make waste systems work?

We are proud to share an important milestone: Biobag Group has been assessed as part of Novamont Group’s B Corp Certification.

Since its invention, humankind has produced an estimated 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic. Around 7 billion tonnes of it has already become waste.

Organic waste is natural. But the amount we generate and what happens to it after disposal can create a serious environmental challenge.

Food waste is produced every day. How we collect and treat it determines whether its valuable resources are lost or kept in use.

London-based start-up Aeropowder developed Pluumo, an insulated packaging material made using surplus feathers.

Plastic has become part of everyday life. Its durability and functionality make it useful in many applications, but plastic that is not properly collected and managed can remain in the environment and contribute to long-term pollution.

Microplastics have been found across the environment, from oceans and rivers to agricultural soil and the air we breathe. Scientists are still working to understand exactly what this means for ecosystems and human health.

Healthy soil supports food production, biodiversity and resilient ecosystems. Keeping organic-waste streams clean is one of the ways we can help protect this valuable resource.

Plastic has changed everyday life and provides valuable functionality in many applications. However, the production, use and disposal of plastic have also created a significant pollution problem.

Biobag UK & Ireland’s retail range of compostable bags received Cré certification for use in Irish food-waste bins. At the time of the award, it was reported as the first retail range of compostable bags to receive this certification.

Biobags are made of Mater-Bi, a family of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics developed by Novamont. These materials are designed for specific applications where biodegradability or compostability can support the collection and biological treatment of organic waste.

It can be difficult for the individual consumer to find out what the difference is between the various waste bags offered for sorting the organic waste in the kitchen.

Plastics are deeply embedded in our daily lives and will remain in the consumer market for years. But both manufacturers and consumers have a responsibility to choose and use them wisely.

An exciting European proposal on the Circular Economy Package in December 2015 paved the way for broader adoption of biodegradable materials across the EU.