A multi-million innovation hub aims to fast-track the development of a 100 percent compostable plastic.
The $8 million Bioplastics Innovation Hub, a collaboration between the CSIRO and Murdoch University, will work with industry partners to develop biologically-derived plastic packaging that could break down in compost, land, or water.
CSIRO Research Program Director Dr Andy Whiteley said the Hub aimed to bring together experts in microbiology, molecular genetics, synthetic biology, biochemical engineering, advanced manufacturing and circular economy and translate advancements in bioplastics research to real-world applications.
“Our primary focus is the development of 100 percent compostable, bio-derived packaging for use as sprays, films, bottles, caps and wrappers which are engineered to fully break down in compost, land and in aquatic environments,” Dr Whiteley said.
He said with global concerns over plastic pollution and fossil fuel depletion driving an increased demand for compostable bioplastics, the Hub would equip the plastics industry with the tools and expertise required to manufacture materials and continue to drive a plastic waste green economy.
Dr Whiteley said the first key focus area would be a co-investment with WA-based biotechnology company Ecopha Biotech, to develop a new process for water bottle production using compostable bioplastics derived from waste products from the food industry.
He said the Bioplastics Innovation Hub was based at Murdoch University’s main campus in Perth, Western Australia, and an important outcome would be the training of the next generation workforce in advanced biomanufacturing
