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.
Bio-Fed, a branch of Akro-Plastic GmbH, has developed the biocompound M·VERA GP1065 for coffee capsules, combining an improved oxygen barrier with home-compostability and a bio-based content of over 98%.
Elm-plastic, in collaboration with Biovox and Ultrapolymers Deutschland, has introduced the first commercially available bioplastic pipette for pharmaceutical and medical applications. The product uses MedEco compounds based on PLA or bio-based PE and meets common regulatory requirements.
Krill Design has been named a finalist in the Formes de Luxe Awards 2025 in the Novel Materials category for ReKrill, a biopolymer derived from agri-food by-products. The company will present a cosmetic jar and cap made from ReKrill Orange during Luxe Pack Monaco.
Bio-Fed, a branch of Akro-Plastic within the Feddersen Group, will showcase recycled, biobased and biodegradable compound lines at K 2025, including M·Cyclose, M·Biobase and M·Vera, with applications across injection moulding, extrusion and film.
K 2025 will again host a Start-up Zone for young technology companies in Hall 7. Twenty exhibitors will present solutions spanning AI, data analytics, bioplastics, digitally supported production and the circular economy, with a Start-up Pitch scheduled for 13 October in Hall 6.
At K 2025, K.D. Feddersen will present an overview of engineering plastics and sustainable material solutions for automotive, E&E, consumer goods and industrial applications, developed with industry partners.
