CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, and Murdoch University have introduced The Bioplastics Innovation Hub, a collaboration worth $8 million. The focus is on partnering with industry players to create a new breed of 100% compostable plastic.

Source: CSIRO

The goal of The Bioplastics Innovation Hub is to transform plastic packaging by producing biodegradable plastics that can decompose in compost, soil, or water.

Dr. Andy Whiteley, CSIRO's Research Program Director, expressed that the Hub's objective is to unite specialists in various fields such as microbiology, molecular genetics, synthetic biology, biochemical engineering, advanced manufacturing, and circular economy. They plan to apply advancements in bioplastics research to practical uses.

Our primary focus is the development of 100 per cent 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

Amid global worries about plastic pollution and fossil fuel decline, there is a rising demand for compostable bioplastics. The Hub will empower the plastics industry with the necessary tools and knowledge to produce materials and promote a green economy for plastic waste.

The initial focus will involve a joint effort with the WA-based biotechnology company Ecopha Biotech Pty Ltd to devise a new method for manufacturing water bottles using compostable bioplastics sourced from food industry waste products.

Together with CSIRO, Murdoch University will fast-track the production of novel compostable bioplastic and introduce a green plastic to the market which will significantly minimise the requirement for non-sustainable plastic production. We also aim to assist industry in establishing an advanced biomanufacturing sector, to commercialise compostable bioplastics that meet the manufacturing design needs and certification standards for 100 per cent biodegradation. 

Professor Peter Eastwood, Murdoch University's Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research & Innovation, highlighted the need for innovative technological solutions, including bioplastics, to address the escalating plastic waste crisis.

Situated at Murdoch University's main campus in Perth, Western Australia, The Bioplastics Innovation Hub will also concentrate on training the upcoming workforce in advanced biomanufacturing.

This endeavor by The Bioplastics Innovation Hub aligns with CSIRO's objective to reduce plastic waste entering the Australian environment by 80% by 2030. It supports Australia's dedication to the United Nations Global Treaty on plastic pollution and the Australian government's National Plastics Plan.