Traditional plastic forks shed harmful microplastics. Plastic created from sugar is an alternative
Summary
A company in Massachusetts called CJ Biomaterials makes plastic from plants using sugar fermentation. Their bioplastics can be composted at home and break down naturally, unlike traditional plastics that produce harmful microplastics. These plant-based polymers are being developed for use in utensils and food packaging as an eco-friendly alternative.Key Facts
- CJ Biomaterials creates bioplastic pellets by fermenting sugar into plant-based polymers.
- These bioplastics can break down in home compost bins instead of lasting for decades like traditional plastics.
- The company has made forks, knives, and food packaging films that biodegrade in lab compost tests.
- Traditional plastics fragment into microplastics, which pollute oceans, air, food, and bodies.
- Bioplastics are made from renewable resources like corn or sugarcane and can be biodegradable.
- CJ Biomaterials produces polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), which break down in soil and water safely.
- The company aims to replace single-use plastics and materials that cannot be recycled due to food contamination.
- Reducing plastic waste also helps lower methane emissions from food waste in landfills.
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