Green Biodegradable & Compostable - Sustainable Packaging Made From Renewable Resources

Composting refuse helps reduce waste

2010-04-20T12:20:00.002-04:00

MassLive.com, April 20, 2010

Composting is a great way to recycle our organic "waste" into a beneficial soil amendment for our yards and gardens.

Composting at home can also help reduce methane production at landfills. Using the compost in our landscapes helps store carbon in the soil instead of releasing it to the atmosphere.

Compost creates healthy soil, reducing or eliminating the need for fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation.

And, we can reduce our trash by 50 percent or more by composting leaves, grass clippings, garden debris, fruit peels, vegetable scraps, tea bags, coffee grounds, egg shells, paper towels, napkins and even paper bags.

It's easy to make compost because most of the work is done by soil organisms that convert organic material to humus.

Build or purchase a compost bin. Enclosed compost piles keep out pests, hold heat and moisture in, and a have a neat appearance. They can be made of wire, wood, pallets, concrete blocks, metal and plastic.

Place the bin in a convenient, shady area that can be reached with your hose.

Build your compost pile using three parts "brown" material and one part "green" material. This provides food for the compost organisms in a recipe that will not create odors.

"Brown" ingredients include leaves, straw, dried grass clippings, wood chips, sawdust, pine needles, and paper products such as paper towels, napkins, bags, plates, coffee filters, tissue and newspaper.

"Green" materials include fresh grass clippings, weeds, fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, manure, and seaweed. Make sure the materials are damp as you build the pile, especially the "browns."

As you build the pile, sprinkle on several shovelsful of rich garden soil or finished compost after every 12 inches of fresh material.

A compost pile that is about 3 feet square and 3 feet high will heat up and stay active throughout the winter. Smaller piles may not retain heat, but will still produce compost, though more slowly than larger piles.

Once your pile is built, continue to add fresh materials as they become available. Always bury food scraps in the center of the pile under about 6 inches of leaves, where they will decompose odorlessly. If leaves are in short supply, add plenty of paper towels, napkins and torn up paper bags to provide the necessary carbon, and always bury your food scraps under this material.

Add water to your pile if it becomes dry to the touch. The composting organisms need a damp, humid environment to do their work. A plastic cover will help your compost pile retain the moisture you add, but remember to take the cover off when it rains so you won't need to add water as often.

Turn your pile, fluff it with a hoe or turning tool, or build air passages into the pile to keep your compost pile aerobic and odor-free. Or, use a compost bin that allows air to penetrate the pile. The compost critters need oxygen, just as we do. Lack of oxygen will slow down the composting process and cause odors.

In about three months, the material will start to turn to compost. The material at the bottom of the pile will be ready first. As more time goes by, the level of compost in the pile will rise until it is easy to access just below the surface. You will know your compost is ready to use when it looks like rich, brown soil and no longer resembles the original materials.

Compost benefits all plants, and there are many different ways to use it.

Add a handful of compost to each transplant hole when planting seedlings or potted plants. Spread another handful on the surface of the soil around the newly planted seedling, making sure that the compost is not touching the stem or trunk of the plant. This mulch layer will help hold moisture in the soil and add nutrients in a time-release fashion.

Spread compost around perennials, shrubs and other existing plantings. If you are planting seeds, apply one-half to 3 inches of compost and mix it in with the top four inches of soil in the seedbed. To rejuvenate lawns, screen your compost using ½-inch screening. The mesh trays used for holding and transporting potted plants from nurseries work well as ready-made compost screens.

Sprinkle the screened compost on the lawn about ¼-inch deep. Screened compost is also excellent for reseeding lawns. Sprinkle it ½-inch deep over the bare spots and distribute new grass seed on top. You can even make excellent potting soil with compost by mixing equal parts compost, sand and loam.

The state Department of Environmental Protection has banned disposal of leaves, yard waste and grass clippings with regular trash.

Yard waste makes up about 18 percent of typical household waste, and it is more environmentally sound to recycle this material by composting it than to dispose of it in landfills or incinerators.

Grass clipping should be left on the lawn, where they will return nutrients to the turf and improve the soil.

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Home composters and compost bins are available from Charlotte Energy Solutions.

Kids can make earth-friendly pots this Earth Day

2010-04-19T10:09:00.000-04:00

Wicked Local Woburn, April 19, 2010

Woburn, MA — To celebrate Earth Day, the Children’s Room of the Woburn Public Library invites children of all ages to come in and make earth-friendly pots, then plant seeds to take home and grow.

Pots will be made from newspaper, so participants will be recycling and using a biodegradable pot at the same time. Seeds, earth, and pot-making materials will be supplied.

The event is Thursday, April 22, from 11 a.m. to noon. Children under the age of 7 should have an adult accompany them to help.

Handicapped accessibility can be arranged; contact the Children’s Room one week before the program at 781-937-0405 for further information.

Here's the dirt on biodegradable plant pots

2010-04-15T23:11:00.000-04:00

By Jim Hole, Edmonton Journal, April 15, 2010

Photo: Biodegradable rice pots are used for the huge crop of geraniums at Hole's Greenhouses in St. Albert. Photo by: Candace Elliott, The Journal, Freelance

There's always a little history repeating in the greenhouse business. When I was a kid, Mom and Dad grew most of our plants in brown, fibre pots. The containers provided an excellent environment for roots, but had one major problem -- the bottoms rapidly rotted.

Eventually, we switched to lightweight, easy-to-handle plastic containers when they became both available and affordable. In the greenhouse industry, plastic became firmly embedded as the standard. But now, we're returning to our roots.

The demand for more eco-friendly products has led to the development of biodegradable containers, meant specifically for the greenhouse industry. And let me tell you, they're a far cry from the rotten-bottomed pots of my childhood.

Not only are these new containers great for growing in, but they also biodegrade after they've served their purpose. And because they decompose, therefore bypassing the landfill, they enrich your garden soil.

On the sustainability scale, they score high.

So just what are these biodegradable pots I'm talking about? Well, most aren't season-long pots; they're growing-in-until-it's-time-to-transplant pots. They're still a bit more expensive than plastic pots, but I think the additional cost is well worth it. Eliminating plastics and giving back to the earth are good reasons to switch. Besides, there really isn't a price tag we can put on our environment.

So with no further ado, here's some info on the biodegradable pots I'm using this year. Note that the fibres in each type of pot are held together by naturally occurring plant resins, which are also biodegradable.

COIR FIBRE POTS

Coir fibres are found between the outer shell of a coconut and the internal shell that protects the seed. They are stringy, flexible and tough enough to be woven. Most coir comes from stockpiles found in Sri Lanka and India. The fibre is also compressed and sold as a substitute for peat moss. Coir pots are probably the least attractive of the biodegradables I've tried, but their permeability is great for increasing vital airflow around roots.

RICE POTS

Rice pots are the most durable and esthetically pleasing of the biodegradables we're using. Smooth, shiny and earth-toned, they're some of the most attractive pots I've ever seen -- biodegradable or otherwise.

The downside, however, is that rice pots are rather brittle, which means they're prone to cracking. At the end of the season, though, that brittleness becomes an advantage -- with one stomp, the pot is reduced to tiny bits, which decompose quickly. Last, but certainly not least, these pots are made from rice hulls rather than the grain itself, so there's no diversion of food to create these containers.

WHEAT POTS

Considering how widely available wheat chaff is, it's not surprising that someone's transformed it into a usable product. Wheat pots are much more pliable than rice ones, which makes them less susceptible to cracking.

However, the green hue of wheat pots also makes them less esthetically pleasing than their competition.

Wheat pots also biodegrade more rapidly than pots made from rice or coir. But that's not a bad thing -- decomposition is what these containers are all about. Just be aware that wheat versions are destined for the compost as soon as you remove the transplants.

While each type of biodegradable pot has its own attributes, all are excellent choices for fostering sustainability. At our greenhouse, we aren't shifting to 100 per cent biodegradable pots just yet. Part of the reason is that a complete product line isn't available. The other reasoning is that plastic still has a place in the greenhouse.

In all likelihood, biodegradable substitutes may eventually eliminate the need for any plastic pots. We are, after all, back to an era where rot is hot.

To keep abreast of what's new in the gardening world, follow twitter.com/holesonline.

New rules for yard waste pickup: city

2010-04-15T22:48:00.001-04:00

CBC News, April 15, 2010

Homeowners in an area of Winnipeg still contending with changes in how their garbage is collected have been told they'll also face upheaval in how they dispose of their yard waste.

Starting in the fall, people living in about 42,500 homes in the northwest part of the city will be required to use 100 per cent compostable bags to dispose of yard trimmings or the city will not pick them up from the curb.

The news comes just months after homes were given rolling garbage carts as the city first step toward automating the garbage collection process. The move was part of a cost-cutting and garbage-reduction effort.

But the new collection process didn't initially make accommodations for yard trimmings, angering some homeowners who said their single 240-litre cart wasn't big enough to be able to fit the bulky materials.

Recently, the city relented, saying that in May, they would begin curbside pickup of yard waste.

However, the city has now mandated that homeowners will soon have to use — and pay for — the biodegradable bags which are vegetable-based, and not made out of petroleum compounds like regular black bags.

However, CBC News has discovered that currently, the bags are in short supply at major stores. A visit to six retail outlets on Thursday revealed only one of the stores – Rona – appeared to carry any stock of the bags.

One homeowner affected by the change said she's impressed by the idea, but admitted being frustrated by the lack of supply.

"It's a great idea, except we can't find them anywhere … or they don't have them in stock yet because Manitoba is just catching on with the biodegradable stuff," said Pina Tunney.
Retailers on notice

But Randy Park of the city's water and waste department said local and national retailers have been told of the city's plans and have requested an ample supply be made available.

"We believe that these items will be readily available in local stores shortly," Park said in an email.

Until the change to biodegradable bags takes effect, homeowners can use the following to toss their yard trimmings, which will be collected on a bi-weekly basis.

* Any reusable container without a lid, such as plastic tubs, metal or plastic garbage cans.

* Cardboard boxes.

* Paper yard waste bags made from weather-resistant paper that breaks down over time.

* Any certified compostable bag.

The city would ideally like to be able to use the trimmings it collects as compost to be used at parks and on boulevards, but because of plastic shards left by bags shredded during the mulching process, it has been unable to.

The bags have instead been tipped at the Brady Road Landfill, mulched and spread over garbage heaps.

With files from Mychaylo Prystupa

Simple(R) Shoes Celebrates Earth Day with Its Collection of Biodegradable Footwear

2010-04-15T22:33:00.002-04:00

New BIO.D Collection Biodegrades in 20 Years as Opposed to the Industry Average of 1,000 Years
Press Release, MarketWatch, April 15, 2010

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., (BUSINESS WIRE) - Simple(R) Shoes (a division of Deckers Outdoor Corporation) /quotes/comstock/15*!deck/quotes/nls/deck (DECK 136.51, -1.49, -1.08%), a sustainable footwear company, happily celebrates Earth Day 2010 with its BIO.D Footwear Collection, offering consumers and eco-fashion lovers footwear that won't leave a mark on the environment.

This spring, Simple has unveiled its new men's and women's BIO.D shoe collection, featuring biodegradable soles. BIO.D products incorporate rubber, plastic and EVA (foaming material) that are manufactured using EcoPure, an organic compound that will eventually eat away at the bonds holding these materials together. This allows the midsoles and outsoles of the styles, when exposed to the moisture and heat typical of landfills, to biodegrade in 20 years as opposed to the industry average of 1,000 years.

"Our focus at Simple is to make better shoes--shoes that look good and are made sustainably," said Cielo Rios, Simple's Product Line Manager. "The BIO.D collection takes our efforts a serious step forward and we are happy to pioneer a new way to think about shoes--as something that won't sit in a landfill for an eternity."

The BIO.D collection for men and women includes classic Simple sneakers in the D-Solve for men and D-Kay for women along with a flip flop collection for the warm spring and summer months.

About Simple(R) Shoes: A Nice Little Shoe Company

Simple(R) Shoes , based in Santa Barbara, Calif., is committed to making shoes for a happy planet. Simple(R) Shoes began in 1991, as a reaction to the over-hyped, over-marketed, and over-teched sneakers that were dominating the early 90's. Since then, Simple has firmly planted its feet in making the most sustainable and stylish shoes and bags for everyone, everywhere. Simple is owned by Deckers Outdoor Corporation, and can be found on Facebook and Twitter.

About Deckers Outdoor Corporation

Deckers Outdoor Corporation strives to be a premier lifestyle marketer that builds niche brands into global market leaders by designing and marketing innovative, functional and fashion-oriented footwear developed for both high performance outdoor activities and everyday casual lifestyle use. Teva(R), Simple(R) Shoes, UGG(R) Australia, TSUBO(R), and Ahnu(R) are registered trademarks of Deckers Outdoor Corporation.

SOURCE: Simple(R) Shoes

R/West PR
Molly Gilbert, 503-223-5443 x118
mollyg@r-west.com

Mother Earth News Finds Compostable Packaging Claims Half-Baked

2010-04-13T14:01:00.004-04:00

The environmental magazine’s tests reveal materials don’t completely break down in home compost piles.
PRWeb, Press Release, EarthTimes, April 13, 2010

Topeka, Kan. (Vocus) - With more companies marketing plant-based bioplastic packaging as “100-percent biodegradable,” Mother Earth News, the leading magazine dedicated to green living, put these claims to the test.

The result? In most cases, the magazine’s lab tests found that “biodegradable” or “compostable” plastics do not decompose in home compost piles. The report also concludes that some companies’ labeling claims are incomplete and misleading.

“While we applaud companies’ efforts to develop more sustainable packaging materials, they need to be upfront about what their products will and won’t do,” says Cheryl Long, editor in chief of Mother Earth News.

Mother Earth News commissioned Woods End Laboratories, an independent facility that specializes in evaluating composts, soils and organic wastes, to test five types of bioplastic shopping bags.

Researchers followed industry standards (ASTM D6400) and monitored the bags for 25 weeks in three scenarios: The team found that none of the bags were completely compostable in typical home composting conditions. Only one of the samples, Mater-Bi made by Novamont, was about halfway degraded after 25 weeks, while BioTuf and Bag-To-Nature brands did well only at the higher temperatures found in commercial composting conditions. Oxo-Biodegradable, which had two samples in the study, didn’t break down at all in any of the scenarios.

The complete report and photos can be found online as well as featured in the June-July issue of Mother Earth News, on sale May 25.

About Mother Earth News
Mother Earth News (www.MotherEarthNews.com) is the Original Guide to Living Wisely. Launched in 1970, each bimonthly issue of Mother Earth News features practical and money-saving information on organic gardening; do-it-yourself projects; cutting energy costs; using renewable energy; green home building and remodeling; rural living; and conscientious, self-sufficient lifestyles.

About Ogden Publications
Ogden Publications Inc. (www.OgdenPubs.com) is the leading information resource serving the sustainable living, rural lifestyle, farm memorabilia and classic motorcycle communities. Key brands include Mother Earth News, Natural Home, Utne Reader, Capper’s and Grit. Ogden Publications also provides insurance and financial services through its Capper’s Insurance Service division.

# # #

Source : PRWeb

Biodegradable/bioabsorbable Interference Screws

2010-04-13T13:43:00.005-04:00

Kunststoffe-international.com, April 13, 2010

Researchers have developed a new material based on PLA and hydroxylapatite for production of interference screws. The screws degrade biologically without leaving any holes in bones.

A torn ligament in the knee frequently requires an operation to restore stability to the joint. In the course of this operation, the physician replaces the ligament with a piece of tendon from the leg and secures it to the bone with a so-called interference screw. Until now, such screws have been fabricated from titanium - with the drawback that a second operation is required to remove it. Sometimes, biodegradable screws made from polylactic acid (PLA) are used. However holes occasionally remain in the bone after the screw has degraded.

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research (IFAM) in Bremen have now developed interference screws that promote growth of bone in the implant and, depending on the formulation, degrade themselves within 24 months. The compressive strength of the material exceeds 130 N/mm². For comparison, real bone has a compressive strength between 130 and 180 N/mm².

The screws consist of an injection moldable formulation of PLA and hydroxylapatite. This mineral accounts for approximately 40% of the material in bone. In the medical field, it is used as a bone replacement or bioactive coating on titanium implants to improve bone growth. The newly developed composite contains a high percentage of hydroxylapatite and can be processed with excellent results in pellet form by means of injection molding. Complex geometries can be produced without the need for post-molding finishing operations. Moreover, the injection molding process has a beneficial side effect. Normally, the powder injection molded part must be densified after molding at very high temperatures of up to 1400°C. In contrast, the new composite material can be processed at 140°C.

Contact
Fraunhofer-Institut für Fertigungstechnik und Angewandte Materialforschung
Wiener Straße 12
28359 Bremen
Tel.: +49 421 2246-0
Fax: +49 421 2246-300
www.ifam.fraunhofer.de

Author
Dr.-Ing. Harald Sambale
sambale@kunststoffe.de

China Green Material Technologies, Inc. Announces Record Full Year 2009 Results

2010-04-13T13:21:00.000-04:00

Revenues Increase 21.8% to $13.4 Million and Operating Income Rises 19.9% to $5.3 Million
PRNewswire, April 13, 2010

HARBIN, China - China Green Material Technologies, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CAGM; "CAGM" or "the Company"), a Chinese leader in developing and manufacturing starch-based biodegradable containers, tableware and packaging materials, today announced its financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2009.

Full year revenues increased 21.8% to $13,407,287 for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $11,008,513 in 2008, primarily driven by the Company's successful efforts in marketing its biodegradable products. Gross profit was $6,354,433 in 2009 versus $5,327,929 a year ago, while gross margin came in at 47.4% in 2009 and 48.4% for the full year in 2008.

Operating expenses were $1,030,861 in 2009 as compared to $888,232 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, an increase of 16.1%, which reflected a credit in 2008 of $261,887 to reduce the level of allowance for doubtful accounts. Income from operations in 2009 rose 19.9% to $5,323,572 as compared to $4,439,697 in 2008, reflecting the strength of full year revenues.

The Company reported income before taxes of $4,894,136 in 2009 as compared to $4,385,907 in 2008, an 11.6% increase. Full year net income was $4,134,946 in 2009 versus $5,892,352 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008. The decline is primarily due to a gain of $1,506,545 related to foreign currency translation in 2008. Net income excluding foreign currency translation was $4,155,326 in 2009 as compared to $4,385,807 in 2008, a decrease of 5.3%. The year-over-year decline is primarily due to the exemption from Chinese income tax in 2008. Basic and diluted net income per share was $0.22 for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared with $0.28 for the year ended December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2009, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $7,321,276.

Mr. Su Zhonghao, CEO of CAGM, commented, "We are very pleased with the record results of 2009, which reflect increasing demand for our products as consumers continue to adopt environmentally-friendly, sustainable practices. Importantly, the increase of 22% in revenues is attributable to strong order flow from both new and existing customers. During the year, we took a number of important steps to position the Company for future growth. We expanded our distributor base by nearly 70% to 118 partners and increased our sales team to 38 members. Early in 2010, we made the strategic decision to significantly expand our production capacity to accommodate increasing volume and prepare for anticipated growth as we focus on developing new product categories, entering new markets and winning new customers."

Mr. Su Zhonhao continued. "Looking ahead, we believe the Company is ideally positioned to take advantage of favorable macro environmental policies and increasing awareness and demand for biodegradable products. We believe that we have an early mover advantage; proprietary technology that produces superior quality products; an experienced and cohesive team; a strong order pipeline; key operating and growth strategies designed to increase market share; and the financial flexibility to execute."

About China Green Material Technologies, Inc.

Website: http://www.21cgmt.com

China Green Material Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: CAGM) is a China-based manufacturer of starch-based biodegradable containers, tableware and packaging products. Headquartered in Harbin city of China, the Company currently has 153 employees. The Company has developed proprietary biodegradable food packaging materials technologies.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "optimistic," "intend," "will" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of risks and factors, including those discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with and available from the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these risks and other factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.

For more information, please contact:

American Capital Ventures
Howard Gostfrand
Tel: +1-305-918-7000
Email: info@amcapventures.com
Web: http://www.amcapventures.com

HC International, Inc.
Christine Greany
Tel: +1-858-523-1732
Email: christine.greany@hcinternational.net
Web: http://www.hcinternational.net

SOURCE China Green Material Technologies, Inc.

Biodegradable 3D glasses coming to theaters?

2010-04-13T13:01:00.003-04:00

by Sharon Vaknin, Crave - CNET, April 12, 2010

Though some moviegoers' powerful identification with "Avatar" may have inspired them to ponder the planet and rethink their carbon footprint, they likely missed the irony: millions of nonbiodegradable, plastic 3D glasses were reportedly distributed for the movie.

Luckily, cinemas may be on their way to adopting a more sustainable technology. Cereplast, an L.A.-based maker of bioplastics, has partnered with Oculus3D to create what appear to be the first biodegradable 3D glasses. Unlike current 3D glasses that are made using petroleum-based plastic, these will be manufactured with plastic derived from plant materials.

Cereplast and Oculus3D say they'll be ready to distribute their glasses this summer, according to Greenwala, where we first spotted the news. With the rising cost of oil and a high interest in 3D movies, biodegradable 3D glasses could be just the right move for the movie industry.

RealD--the predominant developer of technology for 3D glasses, and one of four providers of 3D systems for showing "Avatar"--implemented a recycling program for its plastic glasses last fall. Moviegoers are given the option to toss their glasses into a bin after the movie or keep them for reuse.

Glasses that end up in the bin are taken to a sanitizing facility, repackaged, and returned to theaters for redistribution. Intact glasses can be washed up to 500 times, but any that are cracked, scratched, or damaged are likely sent to landfills. RealD told CNET it could not comment on its recycling program because the company is in a quiet period.

Inside Design: The Man Behind PoopBags

2010-04-13T12:06:00.002-04:00

By PD&D Editorial Staff, Product Design & Development, April 12, 2010

Farewell to the plastic grocery bag, pet owners no longer have to take such a toll on landfills. Though it is a way to repurpose the many plastic bags compiled after multiple shopping excursions, typical petroleum-based plastic bags can take thousands of years to decompose.

Paul Cannella, the owner of Chicago-based PoopBags.com, created a solution.

Cannella’s PoopBags are 100 percent biodegradable dog waste bags that meet the ASTM D6400 specification — with all of the “earth friendly” products on the market D6400 actually allows a company to legally claim that the product is biodegradable.

Made from corn starch and other renewable resources, PoopBags are shelf stable products that will degrade, after use, at the same rate as the core of an apple.

In PD&D’s latest addition to the Inside Design series, Cannella discusses how you don’t always have to change your behavior to save the environment, sometimes you just the bags you were using.

PD&D: How was the PoopBag born?

Paul Cannella: I used to always run out of bags for my dog, May. I started grabbing extras when I could: my Mom would save them for me, I always asked for double-bagging, etc. I started looking for sources on the web and discovered just how bad plastic bags were for the environment.

In 2003, there were very few resources for biodegradable bags — and it remains true today. While many claim to be biodegradable, only a couple actually meet the ASTM D6400 specification, which allows you to legally claim your product is biodegradable.

PD&D: Where are the bags manufactured?

Cannella: We have two product lines: One is made in the U.S., and the other is made in Norway.

PD&D: Dog owners understand the volume of plastic grocery bags that are “recycled” every year. How much harm are they doing to the environment?

Cannella: Here are some facts:

* Plastics are the fourth highest generated waste in the U.S.
* Plastic grocery bags originate from petroleum, which is non-renewable.
* The bags don’t biodegrade, and they take thousands of years to break down.

I also caution you from using the word ‘recycle’ when using the old bags to pick up dog waste, you're really reusing them. Picking up is still very important to protect our waterways and environment, now adjust to using a 100 percent biodegradable dog waste bag and you'll be doing your part.

PD&D: How have you organized your business to run with as little of a carbon footprint as possible?

Cannella: Our boxes are made from 100 percent recycled materials and constructed using 100 percent wind power. We use as many recycled and natural products as we can for shipping and we try to leverage our reach to spread eco-friendly tips to the masses. We recycle all of our cardboard, paper, plastics (yes, we still drink beverages) and anything else we can. In general, everyone that works at PoopBags has a Green streak.

PD&D: If I order green bags over the internet, how do the emissions used to deliver the bags compare to my footprint if I continue to use plastic grocery bags?

Cannella: That’s an interesting question. We try to offer the bags in bulk to reduce the number of deliveries. In the end, there is no comparison. Those are plastic and they're just plain bad for the environment.

PD&D: How do you plan to orchestrate mass market PoopBag acceptance?

Cannella: We have a constant program of advertising, PR, social networking and relying on our number one asset, our customers and their praise for PoopBags. Word of mouth is the most powerful form of acceptance and we are grateful for a tremendously loyal customer base.

PD&D: What does the future hold for PoopBags?

Cannella: We have a very bright future and it’s very exciting. While we currently sell overseas in a limited capacity, we are preparing to open an office in the United Kingdom. That will be followed by reach to the entire European Union; and then we'll focus on the Pacific Rim. This is balanced with our continued growth here in the States. Along the way, we hope to continue to do some good by making donations to shelters, paying for pet adoptions and donating to the Algalita Marine Research Foundation.

PD&D: Given the current state of the environment, what keeps you up at night?

Cannella: I certainly get stressed, but I usually don’t have any issues sleeping at night. I try to do my best to lead a good life, be responsible and rest easy, knowing that my company provides a Green-N-Easy source for folks to make their own small impact on the world.

For more information on PoopBags, check out the www.poopbags.com.

Don't get left holding the wrong leaf bag

2010-04-13T11:55:00.004-04:00

If you're a Twin Cities resident living anywhere except Minneapolis, you now must use biodegradable, compostable lawn bags. The once-ubiquitous black plastic bags have been banned for yard waste.
By JOHN EWOLDT, StarTribune.com, April 12, 2010

"Why haven't I heard of this change before?" asked a Hennepin County resident when she called Hennepin County Environmental Services about the switch to compostable bags. John Jaimez, the county's organics recycling specialist, said the change was mentioned frequently last year in newspaper, radio and TV stories as well as online. "I don't have a TV or computer or read the newspaper," she said.

For anyone else sitting on the sidelines, here's the deal. As of Jan. 1, most residents of the seven-county metro area (Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties) who bag their yard waste for pickup must use compostable paper or plastic-like bags made from organic material, often corn-based. Only Minneapolis residents are getting a pass on the new requirement -- until Jan. 1, 2013.

Metro procrastinators who bagged leaves after the last pickup in the fall will have to rebag the waste or find other options. Waste haulers are giving no slack to anyone putting out the black plastic bags. Most haulers, such as Allied Waste, are tagging the black bags with a neon-colored note which states that they will no longer be picked up, said Jessica Kliche, marketing coordinator at Allied.

Earlier-than-expected warm weather caught some retailers off guard. The compostable bags have been in short supply at some stores.

In a check of 10 retailers two weeks ago, Sam's Club and Wal-Mart in Bloomington were out of stock. Target, Menards, Home Depot, Costco and several smaller hardware stores had the paper or plastic-like bags in stock.

You might need help finding compostable bags if you're shopping for the first time. Many stores have the paper bags in one location and the plastic-like bags in another. Target, for example, has the traditional black lawn and leaf bags with all other plastic bags but the compostable ones in the seasonal department.

For a partial list of retailers selling the plastic-like bags, go to www.bpiworld.org/minnesota. More than 30 manufacturers make the translucent, compostable bags, said Steve Mojo, executive director of the Biodegradable Products Institute in New York City.

Finding the right bags

How can consumers know they're buying the correct ones?

The new bags are translucent, usually white, green or pink. But don't be misled by packaging or wording.

Several stores were selling bags labeled "100 percent degradable" or "60 percent recycled plastic" in green boxes labeled "Go Green" or "Good Sense." Open the box, however, and the bags contain black or opaque green plastic that is not compostable.

Plastic bags labeled as being biodegradable but not compostable break down into finer plastic particles, but the plastic does not disintegrate into organic matter. Look instead for wording on the box that says "compostable" or "Meets ASTM D6400 standards."

Drawbacks to new bags

Anyone accustomed to bags made of thick, black plastic with drawstrings or flap closures will find the new bags a little, well, basic.

None of the brands I checked had the drawstring or flap closure or even twist ties. At a size of 30 to 33 gallons, they're also smaller than traditional bags, which are usually 39 to 45 gallons.

Sturdiness is a factor, too. The paper versions offer consistent quality, but the plastic-like bags have varying strengths due to the thickness of the material. Some of the boxes weren't labeled for thickness, which is measured in mils (1 to 1.1 thickness is standard). The Bag to Nature brand at Target was the strongest in our tests.

The new bags have some drawbacks. They are designed to disintegrate more quickly, so filling them with damp material and leaving them in the rain isn't a good idea. Decomposition time will depend on condition and the brand.

Finding a good price

They cost more, too. The old plastic 39- to 45-gallon leaf bags cost 17 to 40 cents each. The 30-gallon Kraft paper bags cost as much as 80 cents each. Home Depot and Menards were cheaper at 38 cents each ($1.88 for five). The lowest price I found was at Costco for 32 cents each ($7.99 for 25).

Among the stores where I found compostable, plastic-like bags, each sold a different brand. Prices ranged from 60 to 83 cents per 33-gallon bag. Menards had the lowest price on its BioBag ($5.99 for 10), but Target's Bag to Nature bags were sturdier ($7.96 for 10). If you're bagging sticks and branches, go for sturdier, thicker bags or use two-ply paper.

Minneapolis gets extra time

Why is Minneapolis off the hook until 2013? The city is considering a program for residents to discard yard and food waste in carts. But it needs extra time to get the carts into place and find an organic recycler that is licensed to accept and handle the waste from 105,000 households, said city spokesman Casper Hill. Currently, there is no such recycler, he said.

Despite all the confusion, Denise Westman of Tonka Bay said she's glad to be helping the environment.

"I think it's a great idea, but I am wondering how the bags will do in the rain," she said.

As for her stash of black plastic bags, Westman plans to use them to haul compost or use them as garbage bags.

"One way or another, they'll still get used," she said.

John Ewoldt • 612-673-7633 or jewoldt@startribune.com. If you spot a deal, share it at www.startribune.com/blogs/dealspotter.

City Begins Leaf Collection

2010-04-13T11:53:00.001-04:00

Steven Goode, courant.com, April 12, 2010

The city has begun its spring curbside leaf collection service. The service, which will end April 23, requires biodegradable trash bags.

Residents are asked to place bags of leaves at the curb as they would their trash and recyclables for their weekly assigned waste collection day.

Leaves should be placed at the curb no earlier than 4 p.m. on the day before collection and no later than 7 a.m. on the day of collection.

Leaves may not be placed in trash containers and must be collected separately for recycling. Residents may drop off bagged leaves at the public works yard, 40 Jennings Road.

Bag bans gain momentum

2010-04-13T11:46:00.004-04:00

EarthTalk, smdp.com, April 12, 2010

Dear EarthTalk, How effective have plastic bag bans and restrictions been on reducing plastic litter and other problems associated with their proliferation? And is it really better to use paper bags, which will just lead to more deforestation?

Peter Lindsey, New Canaan, Conn.

Plastic bags, first introduced in the 1950s as a convenient way to store food, have since developed into a global scourge, littering roadsides, clogging sewer drains and landfills and getting ingested by animals and marine life. And in recent years we've discovered how they are so prolific that they now comprise a significant portion of the plastic and other garbage that has collected in huge ocean gyres far from land.

A few countries around the world — Bangladesh, China, India, Australia, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Israel, South Africa, Taiwan and Mumbai, among others — have taken stands against plastic bags through taxing their usage or banning them outright. The environmental think tank, Worldwatch Institute, reports that China's decision to ban free plastic bags in 2008 has cut demand by some 40 billion bags, reduced plastic bag usage there by 66 percent, and saved some 1.6 million tons of petroleum.

In March 2007, San Francisco became the first (and is still the only) major U.S. city to implement an across-the-board ban on plastic bags. Large supermarkets and pharmacies there had to ditch plastic shopping bags by early 2008 in favor of paper bags or those made from all-natural biodegradable cornstarch-based plastic. Environmentalists are particularly fond of the latter option for those who don't bring their own grocery bags, as these cornstarch bags offer the biodegradability of paper without the deforestation as well as the convenience of plastic without the damage to ecosystems. San Francisco officials had originally tried to work with retailers on reducing plastic bag use voluntarily. But after a few years of little or no cooperation, they decided to just institute the ban on anything but biodegradable bags. The result has been a 50 percent drop in plastic bag litter on the streets since the ban took effect.

Los Angeles followed suit and its city council voted in 2008 to ban plastic bags beginning in July 2010 — but the ban will only take effect if the state of California doesn't follow through on a statewide plan to impose a fee on shoppers who request plastic bags. City council members in L.A. hope the ban will spur consumers to carry their own reusable bags and thus reduce the amount of plastic washing into the city's storm drains and into the Pacific Ocean. Several other U.S. cities, including New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, have considered outright bans like San Francisco's, but each settled instead on plastic bag recycling programs in the face of pressure from the plastics industry and retail commercial interests.

While increased demand for paper bags in the wake of plastic bag bans could lead to more deforestation, most paper grocery bags in use today are made from recycled content, not virgin wood. Also, an added benefit of paper over petroleum-based plastic is its biodegradability.

Americans go through some 92 billion disposable plastic bags each year, and only five billion paper ones. If the nation banned plastic bags it is likely that paper varieties would only make up a small part of the difference, in light of the proliferation of reusable canvas shopping bags as well as the availability of biodegradable cornstarch plastic.

Want to get down to earth? Submit questions to earthtalk@emagazine.com.

Metabolix to ship first biodegradable plastic, Mirel

2010-04-13T11:39:00.004-04:00

By Jackie Noblett, Mass High Tech, April 9, 2010

For nearly two decades, Oliver Peoples and the Cambridge-based company he founded, Metabolix Inc., have been working on ways to turn crops into biodegradable plastics.

The company, founded in 1992 and public since 2006, bore the brunt of the long, slow and expensive process of industrial biotechnology and clean-technology commercialization. But this month, Metabolix (Nasdaq: MBLX) finally will turn the corner so many of its peer companies have failed to do and begin shipping its first plastic, known as Mirel, from its commercial plant in Clinton, Iowa, to customers and book revenue.

Traversing the chasm between technology and production is supremely difficult in the cleantech field, and for Metabolix it has meant years of losses and the dependence on joint venture agreements with agricultural giants to finance much of its expansion. Executives say the transition to producer from developer is critical for the company to prove to investors and customers the technology is more than a science project.

“The commercialization of Mirel is a huge step for us, for it provides a huge point of credibility that other industrial biotechs are looking for,” said Metabolix President and Chief Executive Richard Eno. “We have now transitioned into an environment that creates a lot more opportunities for us to build on the foundation of Mirel and into other products we’re working on.”

Driving the interest is projections of a sizable market for the materials to be used in anything from plastic bags to yogurt cups. Sales of biodegradable and bio-based plastics could reach $1.7 billion to $2.4 billion by 2012, according to a report by investment bank Jefferies & Co.

Metabolix’s history is not drastically different from other biotechs in the ethanol, chemical and materials industries — using major advances in genetic engineering made in the 1970s and 1980s and combining it with chemistry and materials science. But what makes Metabolix unique is not that it is making biodegradable plastics, but trying to create a single polymer that can withstand heat and cold, can be injection-molded into pens and can be in contact with food.

“What we’re making is a new polymer that has never been made before,” Eno said. “When you’re putting a new material out there, there are various tests and other processes that take time.”

“I think the benefit is once you’re there, it’s an enduring thing,” he added.

That’s if you actually get to the end goal. Metabolix’s ability to go commercial arguably would not have been possible without a joint venture forged in 2006 with Decatur, Ill.-based Archer Daniels Midland Co., one of the world’s largest producers of corn-based ethanol.

ADM essentially fronted the cost of building Metabolix’s Clinton plant to the tune of well over $300 million as well as access to the corn sugar feedstock that is used to make Mirel. In return, Metabolix provides research and development as well as marketing and product development services to the venture.

Eno says the partnership enabled Metabolix to get over the hurdle of fronting the money for a plant, something the early-stage company could not do on its own.

Last year, the 100-employee company generated $1.6 million in revenue from grant funding and payments from ADM, posted a net loss of $38 million. Meanwhile, the company’s stock has surged since February, trading near $13 per share from a 52-week low of about $6.

Biodegradable plastic use on rise in Costa Rica

2010-04-13T11:33:00.004-04:00

sify news, April 9, 2010

Uses of biodegradable plastic bags in Costa Rica has increased significantly in the last three years as a result of an intensified climate conservation campaign across the country and in Central America.

Consumers are now purchasing disposable and environment friendly plastic containers, bags and bottles. Such products are gaining ground in less than three years after the technology came in the market, said Silvia Vega, CEO of Milenio Tres, distributor of D2W technology used to convert plastics into degradable material.

Although biodegradable products make up less than 10 percent of all plastics on the market in the Central American country, the trend is towards continued rapid growth, she said.

The increased use of 'green' products in Costa Rica is part of a worldwide trend; among other Central American countries that have embraced oxo-biodegradable plastics are El Salvador and Guatemala.

According to Milenio Tres, close to 220 million tonnes of plastic is produced annually worldwide and approximately 20 million tonnes of plastic debris end up in rivers and oceans.

The company also estimates that 90 percent of the plastic made since 1930 remains somewhere on the planet as rubbish without decomposing, polluting earth, air and water.

International environmental watchdogs say nearly one million seabirds die annually from ingesting plastic, while turtles in oceans all over the world mistake floating plastic bags and sheets for jellyfish and choke to death.

In Costa Rica, roughly 4,500 tonnes of urban solid waste is produced every day. Of them, approximately 30 percent ends up in rivers and oceans.

Oxo-biodegradable plastic is anywhere from between five percent and 10 percent more expensive to manufacture, Vega said, but there are ways to bring that cost down.

'In reality, this cost is nothing compared to the environmental benefit of having waste that will decompose instead of accumulating on the planet for decades,' Vega said.

D2W technology is used in more than 90 countries and has been approved in accordance with international guidelines, including those of the US Food and Drug Administration.

Biodegradable bags ordinance takes effect

2010-04-13T10:28:00.001-04:00

KTRK-TV, April 5, 2010

HOUSTON - Starting today, the city of Houston will require residents to switch to biodegradable bags or eventually pay a fine.

City residents will now have to put their yard trimmings in green friendly bags with the city's seal. The new bags will cost you about three times more than the old bags.

And under the new ordinance, residents can face a fine of up to $2,000 if they're not put in city-approved bags.

But officials say it will not fine anyone for the first few weeks.

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Biodegradable Lawn & Yard Waste Bags are available online from Carolina Green FoodService Supply.

City Requires Biodegradable Yard Waste Bags

2010-04-13T10:16:00.003-04:00

Bags Cost 80 Cents Each
KETV.com, April 5, 2010

click here to watch news video

HOUSTON - People in Houston must use biodegradable bags to dispose of yard waste or face a hefty fine, KPRC-TV in Houston reported.

The city's new ordinance goes into effect Monday.

The City Council hopes the biodegradable bags will save the city about $1.5 million annually and preserve the environment and landfill space.

The city-approved bags are available at grocery and hardware stores around the city. They cost about 80 cents each.

Some residents are very upset about the added cost, as a regular trash bag can cost about 25 cents each.

"We have received dozens and dozens of e-mails and phone calls," Councilman Mike Sullivan said. "Not one of them has complimented the city for this program."

Residents who put their yard waste in any other type of bag will face a fine of up to $2,000.

There are alternatives for residents who do not want to use the bags.

"You can use a mulching mower and grasscycle," said Marina Joseph, with the city's solid waste department. "That is very good for the environment."

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Biodegradable Lawn & Yard Waste Bags are available online from Carolina Green FoodService Supply.

New law: They don't take plastic

2010-02-12T15:14:00.000-05:00

Starting this Thursday, N.C. is outlawing plastic bottles in landfills. But recycling rangers likely won't bust you.
By Lynn Bonner, charlotteobserver.com, Sept. 28, 2009

Public service announcements, fliers, and corporate-gift cards are all aimed at getting N.C. households to comply with a state law kicking in Thursday that bans plastic bottles from landfills.

But don't look for the trash cops if soda bottles end up in your garbage cans.

"That's not the spirit of the law," said Scott Mouw, the state's recycling director. "Clearly, this is more of a law of spirit or intent, everyone recognizing the positive reasons to recycle."

State enforcement efforts will be targeted at haulers who show up at landfills with loads of banned material. Most local governments don't have the power or the interest in dogging residents who don't recycle.

Charlotte's Solid Waste Services department does not conduct enforcement, spokeswoman Brandi Williams said. "It's a state law, so it is on them to enforce it," Williams said.

Charlotte offers a volunteer recycling program in which households place certain items in red bins and workers collect them weekly. Workers who pick up recycling sort the plastic, metal and paper at the curb.

Starting next July in Charlotte, recycling will be collected every other week, instead of weekly. The city is trading the red recycling bins for larger rolling containers similar to its trash cans. Workers will dump everything into trucks, and the plastic-metal-paper sorting will be at an automated facility.

The move is part of a plan to save about $26 million over 10 years.

Without enforcement efforts, though, North Carolina's embrace of recycling has been more of a half-hug.

North Carolina missed a 10-year recycling goal it set back in 1991 for reducing trash disposal. In fact, more trash went to landfills, not less. Garbage disposal went from 1.01 tons per person in 1992 to 1.21 tons per person by June 2001.

The state now has a new goal: Recycle 2 million tons of bottles, cans, and other materials each year by 2012. N.C. residents currently recycle about 1.3 million tons a year.

The state recycles fewer than one in five bottles, Mouw said, and he's sure that rate can go up.

One of the state's new tactics to persuade people to keep plastic out of the trash is to focus on the empty bottles as a raw material for the state recycling industry. The state has plants that are a step in the manufacturing chain that turns used bottles into new bottles and other materials. The largest plastics recycling plant in the nation is to open in Fayetteville next year.

Though state law bars specific materials from landfills - such as aluminum cans, big appliances and tires - recycling practices vary across the state and are largely governed by local ordinance.

Some communities, such as Orange County and Cary, constantly add items to their list of recyclables, while other localities make a more limited effort.

Orange County, which includes Hillsborough and Chapel Hill, recycled more plastic per person than any other county last year, according to state figures. Orange residents recycled about 29.5 pounds of plastic bottles per person in 2007-08.

Pamlico County was the next closest with 14.8 pounds per person. The state average was 3.8 pounds per person.

"People across the county have a really high recycling ethic," said Blair Pollock, Orange County's solid waste planner.

Four counties didn't collect plastic for recycling. Some of the state's municipalities - Kannapolis being the largest - don't have curbside recycling, Mouw said.

Katie Burdett, who wrote about plastics recycling as a requirement for her master's in public administration from UNC Chapel Hill this year, said the state would need to require recycling and develop an enforcement strategy to maximize the ban's impact.

Local communities' recycling success largely depends on the commitment of those in charge of running it, said Burdett, who interned in the state recycling office. Communities that do best have someone whose sole job it is to encourage recycling, keep in touch with major garbage producers and watch the recycling markets, she said.

Charlotte Observer staff writer Fred Clasen-Kelly contributed.

Biodegradable plastics' 'green' association propels their growth, claims report

2010-01-08T15:27:00.004-05:00

The green factor is triggering the growth of biodegradable plastics, particularly in the areas of consumer products and packaging, Frost & Sullivan reports.
By Anne Marie Mohan, GreenerPackage.com, Jan. 4, 2010

As biodegradable plastics fall under the "green" category, they exhibit high potential for growth compared to other thriving environment-friendly technologies in the renewable energy and chemicals segments. That’s the conclusion of new analysis from Frost & Sullivan, “Biodegradable Plastics—A Strategic Assessment of Technology Status and Application Prospects.”

The report indicates that opportunities are proliferating in key application areas such as packaging/plastic bags, agriculture, consumer goods, electronics, automotive, and healthcare. Growth in this sector occurs due to factors such as climate change, favorable governmental measures, and green procurement policies practiced by governments and corporate entities. Stringent environmental regulations are driving the development of bio-based products and are triggering the growth of the biodegradable plastics industry.

In the analysis, Frost & Sullivan finds that consumer products and packaging have emerged as the application sectors having the highest potential for biodegradable plastics. Analysis revealed that film packaging and rigid packaging scored the best in terms of level of attractiveness and possibility of success.

"Traditional packaging materials contain a range of oil-based polymers, which are largely nonbiodegradable," notes technical insights research analyst W.F. Kee. "Packaging waste forms a significant part of municipal solid waste and has caused increasing environmental concerns, resulting in strengthening of legislation in order to reduce packaging waste."

The report notes that with the ramping up of the attraction quotient in recent years, green products are clearly gaining advocates. “It has become increasingly fashionable for the public to support green products,” Frost & Sullivan says. “The popularity of hybrid cars and reusable bags is a good example. Eco-friendly products have been introduced in various sectors, including food, appliances, and cars. ”

Consumer interest in bio-based packaging is on the rise, the analysis relates. Public support for green products is partially responsible for the biodegradable plastics market growth, and this global trend is expected to continue, gathering steam in the future.

Challenges to growth

Although the overall prospects look bright, some issues have been reining in market progress, the report notes. Cost competitiveness is foremost among the challenges confronting the market. To circumvent this obstacle, proposed solutions include the use of cheaper feedstock, for instance, biomass-based feedstock, as well as an integrated process. Utilization of feedstock is very limited right now, Frost & Sullivan says, and the adoption of biomass-based feedstock will mostly be influenced by the development of improved biocatalysts.

Other concerns associated with biodegradable plastics are poor processability characteristics, low barrier properties toward air, water, and oxygen, low resistance to heat, and in some cases, low shelf life, the report states.

"The properties of traditional biodegradable polymers do not offer the essential mechanical properties and fail to match up to the needs of end-user application compared with conventional plastics," says Kee. "This acts as a barrier for the penetration of biodegradable packaging in high-end applications."

The report concludes that it is imperative that these impediments be addressed before biodegradable products can compete on an equal footing with conventional plastics.

Suggestions to improve properties include deploying enhanced blending technologies or developing composites. Blending studies are underway in the academic and corporate sectors, and efforts have been initiated for the development of bio- and nanocomposites, Frost & Sullivan says. The former incorporates bio-based materials such as natural fibers to improve the mechanical properties of biodegradable plastics, while the latter incorporates nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes to produce materials that are stronger and more durable.

Click here to go to original article

Biodegradable Particles Can Bypass Mucus, Release Drugs Over Time

2010-01-08T14:30:00.003-05:00

ScienceDaily, Jan. 4, 2010

Johns Hopkins University researchers have created biodegradable nanosized particles that can easily slip through the body's sticky and viscous mucus secretions to deliver a sustained-release medication cargo.

The researchers say these nanoparticles, which degrade over time into harmless components, could one day carry life-saving drugs to patients suffering from dozens of health conditions, including diseases of the eye, lung, gut or female reproductive tract.

The mucus-penetrating biodegradable nanoparticles were developed by an interdisciplinary team led by Justin Hanes, a professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering in the Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins. The team's work was reported recently in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Hanes' collaborators included cystic fibrosis expert Pamela Zeitlin, a professor of pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and director of pediatric pulmonary medicine at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

These nanoparticles, Zeitlin said, could be an ideal means of delivering drugs to people with cystic fibrosis, a disease that kills children and adults by altering the mucus barriers in the lung and gut.

"Cystic fibrosis mucus is notoriously thick and sticky and represents a huge barrier to aerosolized drug delivery," she said. "In our study, the nanoparticles were engineered to travel through cystic fibrosis mucus at a much greater velocity than ever before, thereby improving drug delivery. This work is critically important to moving forward with the next generation of small molecule and gene-based therapies."

Beyond their potential applications for cystic fibrosis patients, the nanoparticles also could be used to help treat disorders such as lung and cervical cancer, and inflammation of the sinuses, eyes, lungs and gastrointestinal tract, said Benjamin C. Tang, lead author of the recent journal article and a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

"Chemotherapy is typically given to the whole body and has many undesired side effects," he said. "If drugs are encapsulated in these nanoparticles and inhaled directly into the lungs of lung cancer patients, drugs may reach lung tumors more effectively, and improved outcomes may be achieved, especially for patients diagnosed with early stage non-small cell lung cancer."

In the lungs, eyes, gastrointestinal tract and other areas, the human body produces layers of mucus to protect sensitive tissue. But an undesirable side effect is that these mucus barriers can also keep helpful medications away.

In proof-of-concept experiments, previous research teams led by Hanes earlier demonstrated that latex particles coated with polyethylene glycol could slip past mucus coatings. But latex particles are not a practical material for delivering medication to human patients because they are not broken down by the body. In the new study, the researchers described how they took an important step forward in making new particles that biodegrade into harmless components while delivering their drug payload over time.

"The major advance here is that we were able make biodegradable nanoparticles that can rapidly penetrate thick and sticky mucus secretions, and that these particles can transport a wide range of therapeutic molecules, from small molecules such as chemotherapeutics and steroids to macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids," Hanes said. "Previously, we could not get these kinds of sustained-release treatments through the body's sticky mucus layers effectively."

The new biodegradable particles comprise two parts made of molecules routinely used in existing medications. An inner core, composed largely of polysebacic acid (PSA), traps therapeutic agents inside. A particularly dense outer coating of polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules, which are linked to PSA, allows a particle to move through mucus nearly as easily as if it were moving through water and also permits the drug to remain in contact with affected tissues for an extended period of time.

In Hanes' previous studies with mucus-penetrating particles, latex particles could be effectively coated with PEG but could not release drugs or biodegrade. Unlike latex, however, PSA can degrade into naturally occurring molecules that are broken down and flushed away by the body through the kidney, for example. As the particles break down, the drugs loaded inside are released.

This property of PSA enables the sustained release of drugs, said Samuel Lai, assistant research professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, while designing them for mucus penetration allows them to more readily reach inaccessible tissues.

Jie Fu, an assistant research professor, also from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, said, "As it degrades, the PSA comes off along with the drug over a controlled amount of time that can reach days to weeks."

Polyethylene glycol acts as a shield to protect the particles from interacting with proteins in mucus that would cause them to be cleared before releasing their contents. In a related research report, the group showed that the particles can efficiently encapsulate several chemotherapeutics, and that a single dose of drug-loaded particles was able to limit tumor growth in a mouse model of lung cancer for up to 20 days.

Hanes, Zeitlin, Lai and Fu are all affiliated with Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology. Other authors on the paper are Ying-Ying Wang, Jung Soo Suk, and Ming Yang, doctoral students in the Johns Hopkins Department of Biomedical Engineering; Michael P. Boyle, an associate professor in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; and Michelle Dawson, an assistant professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

This work was supported in part by funding from the National Institutes of Health, a National Center for Research Resources Clinical and Translational Science Award, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the National Science Foundation and a Croucher Foundation Fellowship.

The technology described in the journal article is protected by patents managed by the Johns Hopkins Technology Transfer office and is licensed exclusively by Kala Pharmaceuticals. Justin Hanes is a paid consultant to Kala Pharmaceuticals, a startup company in which he holds equity, and is currently a member of its board. The terms of these arrangements are being managed by The Johns Hopkins University in accordance with its conflict-of-interest policies.

Click here to go to original article

Drive to promote biodegradable alternatives

2010-01-05T16:22:00.003-05:00

Express News Service, express buzz, Jan. 4, 2010

CUTTACK, India - If everything moves in the right direction, Cuttack could well become the first polythene-free city of the State. For, the civic authorities have charted out elaborate plans to phase out common use of the hazardous material.

While it is set for a crackdown on production, import and sale of polythene of less than 20 microns in strength in the city, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has resolved to launch a drive to educate people on using biodegradable alternatives.

The denizens would be sensitised on using textile, jute and paper bags instead of polythene carry bags. Shops, business establishments, hotels and restaurants have already been directed not to provide their goods in the banned polythene material to the customers, Commissioner RN Nanda said.

At the same time, a coordinated effort would be made to boost availability of the alternatives like paper and jute bags. The Corporation authorities along with the District Collector would hold a meeting of agencies concerned like the district industries centre and its wings to promote manufacturing paper bags and other biodegradable packaging material.

The move would serve two purposes: helping enormously in eliminating harmful polythene and providing employment opportunities.

Polythene is the single most contributing factor to the problems of water-logging in the millennium city. The Orissa High Court is also monitoring the enforcement of ban on recycled polythene in the city.

The deluge of 2007 and even the heavy showers last year had revealed the disastrous consequences of indiscriminate dumping of polythene and plastic materials in the drains and water discharge channels. While the city witnessed widespread inundation last year, fishing out of at least five tractor loads of plastic, polythene and polymer discards at the outage point of the Main Storm Water Channel near Matru Bhawan eased out the situation within hours.

A concerted campaign would be launched to make people conscious and debar them from dumping the hazardous materials into the drains, Nanda said.

New restrictions on plastic bags coming in Minn.

2010-01-05T12:25:00.001-05:00

Associated Press, WQOW TV, Dec. 28, 2009

ST. PAUL, Minn. - Most residents of the Twin Cities metro area will soon face new state requirements on plastic yard bags, even though raking is months away.

A new state law taking effect on Friday requires metro-area residents - except those who live in Minneapolis - to use certified compostable bags for yard waste.

The requirement is waived for those who immediately empty their yard waste bags at a compost facility or transfer station. Minneapolis is exempt until 2013 while the city phases in a new compost system.

Another law going into effect Friday prohibits labeling plastic bags as "biodegradable" or "compostable" unless the bags meet standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Businesses that violate the labeling law could face fines of up to $5,000.

Houston delays requirement for biodegradable yard waste bags

2010-01-05T12:13:00.005-05:00

Rule now set to go into effect Feb. 1
By MATTHEW TRESAUGUE, HOUSTON CHRONICLE, Dec. 28, 2009

City officials predict that the change will result in the diversion of 60,000 tons of organic material from local landfills at an annual savings of $2 million in fees, or 10 percent of the city's yearly budget for waste disposal

Houston waste officials have decided to delay the start of a program requiring the use of biodegradable and compostable bags for leaves and yard trimmings because of a supply problem.

The program will go into effect Feb. 1, instead of Jan. 1, to allow more time for the bags to reach store shelves, said Marina Joseph, a spokeswoman for the city's Solid Waste Department.

The newly mandated bags can be found at Walmart and Kroger stores and will soon be at other retailers, such as CVS, Ace Hardware and Do It Best Hardware, she said.

“They are out there, but it's not as widespread as we would like it to be,” Joseph said Monday of the bags. “We don't want to start the program without them being widely available.”

The city is making the change to the biodegradable bags because plastic bags, made from petroleum, can linger for centuries in landfills. The compostable bags begin to decompose within six weeks.

City officials predict that the change will result in the diversion of 60,000 tons of organic material from local landfills at an annual savings of $2 million in fees, or 10 percent of the city's yearly budget for waste disposal.

The compostable bags, however, are more expensive. A box of 10 city-required bags, each holding up to 39 gallons, costs $6 to $8, while a box of 70 similar-size plastic bags sells for about $16.

Resources

Bio bags

Effective Feb. 1, the city will only pick up leaves, grass trimmings and other yard waste that is left out in biodegradable or compostable bags. Some details:

What: The new bags feel like plastic, but are made of starch and start decomposing in six weeks.

Why: The city hopes to conserve landfill space, cut waste and reduce use of petroleum-based plastic bags that take centuries to decompose.

How much: A box of 10, 39-gallon bags will sell for $6-$8 at several grocery retailers — up to 80 cents a bag, compared with under 25 cents for comparable plastic bags.

Where they are: The following Walmart locations say they have the new bags in stock. Officials say other retailers, such as CVS, Ace Hardware, Do It Best Hardware and possible Kroger, should have them in stock soon:
26270 Northwest Freeway, Cypress 22605 Tomball Pkwy., Tomball 9235 North Sam Houston Pkwy., Humble 5655 East Sam Houston Pkwy., Houston 9598 Rowlett Road, Houston 9460 West Sam Houston Pkwy. South, Houston 12353 FM 1960 West, Houston 2700 South Kirkwood Drive, Houston 9555 South Post Oak Road, Houston 13484 Northwest Freeway, Houston 2727 Dunvale Road, Houston 10411 North Freeway, Houston 155 Louetta Crossing, Spring 3506 Texas 6, Houston 27650 Tomball Pkwy., Tomball

More information: www.houstonsolidwaste.org.

Bottled Water Business Is on the Decline

2009-12-23T12:03:00.003-05:00

By Dana Chivvis, Sphere, Dec. 18, 2009

After nearly two weeks of disappointments in Copenhagen, environmentalists can celebrate one small piece of news today: Bottled water sales are down and are expected to continue to fall next year, according to the Beverage Marketing Corp.

The $11 billion bottled-water industry saw nothing but growth for three decades, peaking in 2007 when each person consumed 29 gallons of bottled water a year, MSNBC reports. That number was down 3.2 percent in 2008 and is expected to drop another 2 percent this year.

The fall in consumption may have to do with a movement to make people aware of the effects plastic has on the environment. Because it takes plastic up to 1,000 years to break down naturally, water bottles contribute greatly to the buildup of trash in the environment.

One place particularly hard hit is a swirling area of water in the Pacific Ocean twice the size of Texas, called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The water in this area is filled with an estimated 3.5 million tons of trash, much of which is plastic.

Environmentalists also point to the toxicity of plastic production and the health hazards that exist from drinking or eating from plastic containers. In 2007, scientists discovered that one of the chemicals used in plastic, bisphenol A, interferes with embryonic development in a way that may lead to obesity in adults.

If that's not enough to make you put down the bottle, the Sierra Club adds that water companies are drying up household wells and lakes, affecting wetlands, and using three times the amount of water that goes into one of their bottles to produce the water itself.

But the environmental movement might not be able to take all the credit for the decline in bottled water sales. The dip could be because of the recession. Bottled water sales fell less than all other beverages this year, according to the Beverage Marketing Corp.

"Environmental concerns among consumers may have had an effect on bottled water sales, but the primary reason sales are soft is the economy," said Gary Hemphill, managing director of the Beverage Marketing Corp.

Still, some bottled water producers have taken the environmentalist's message to heart. Nestlé, the world's largest bottler, has begun producing bottles that use less plastic and has introduced a new brand, called Resource, that uses bottles made from 35 percent recycled plastic. The company is also giving out money for local recycling programs, MSNBC reports.

Tom Lauria, spokesman for the International Bottled Water Association, said the industry is even working on plastic bottles made from biodegradable corn.

"We will see in our lifetime biodegradable plastic, and this whole controversy will disappear," he said.

But while he sees the controversy inherent in his industry, Lauria doesn't think the environmentalists have had any effect on bottled water sales.

"People love their bottled water."

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Going green for graduation: UNT students wear biodegradable gowns

2009-12-23T11:56:00.002-05:00

By UNT News Service, North Texas e-News, Dec. 17, 2009

DENTON (UNT), Texas — Commencement ceremonies honoring the accomplishments of about 2,800 students will be held Dec. 18 and 19 (Friday and Saturday) on the University of North Texas campus. This fall, 2,256 undergraduate students applied for December graduation, in addition to 478 master's students and 59 doctoral students.

While the students walking across the stage this December may look similar to students from previous years, there will be one notable difference: some of this year’s students will be wearing biodegradable gowns.

Offered through the UNT Bookstore, the Jostens Elements Collection graduation gowns will decompose in soil in one year. The acetate fabric fiber of the gowns is made from natural wood sourced from renewable forests. In addition, the zipper is made from fully recycled polyethylene terephthalate, a plastic typically used for consumer goods like soft drink bottles. The packaging of the gowns also contains materials from ECM BioFilms, which makes it easier for the bag to decompose.

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NASA Uses Algae to Turn Sewage into Fuel

2009-12-23T11:30:00.003-05:00

The U.S. space agency has thrown its weight behind a clever method of growing algae in wastewater for the purpose of making biofuel.
By Jeremy Hsu, Space.com, FOXNews.com, Dec. 16, 2009

NASA may concern itself largely with space exploration, but it also wants to keep Earth on a steady course in the face of rising energy costs and climate change. Now the U.S. space agency has thrown its weight behind a clever method of growing algae in wastewater for the purpose of making biofuel.

The OMEGA system consists of algae grown in flexible plastic bags floating offshore, where cities typically dump their wastewater. Oil-producing freshwater algae would naturally clean the wastewater by feeding on nutrients in the sewage. The cleansed freshwater could then release into the ocean through forward-osmosis membranes in the sides of the plastic bags.

"You're concentrating nutrients and releasing extremely clean water into the ocean," said Jonathan Trent, a bioengineer at NASA Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, Calif. The forward-osmosis membranes only release fresh water into the ocean, and don't permit salty water to contaminate the bags.

Trent envisions harvesting the algae with barges every ten days, and then flushing the plastic bags with salt water to clean out any freshwater algae that might foul the sides of the bags or the forward-osmosis membranes. The algae would be turned into fuel in a manner similar to using corn to make ethanol.

Municipal wastewater pumped into the bags would then start the cycle all over again.

Such a process would mainly rely on the energy of the ocean waves to mix the algae, as well as sunlight and carbon dioxide. The offshore locations and the wide oceans would also have more than enough room to grow massive amounts of algae needed to produce biofuels for an energy-hungry world.

Algae for a greener economy

Many experts see algae as the biofuel source of the future for several reasons. Algae's biofuel yield could range from 1,000-4,000 gallons per acre each year, compared to just hundreds of gallons per acre annually from oil palm, sunflower and soybeans, according to a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) report. The DOE added that algae alone could theoretically take care of transportation fuel demands for the entire United States.

That early promise has led the DOE to invest in algae-focused ventures through its new ARPA-E agency, and to put together a report titled the "National Algal Biofuels Technology Roadmap."

Some private companies have tried growing algae in vats or through other methods on land. But Trent decided to take advantage of the ocean's natural waves and open spaces. His initial investigation drew support through a grant from the philanthropic arm of Google, the U.S. Internet search giant.

"This would ultimately cover acres and acres of ocean," Trent told SPACE.com. He noted that each plastic bag might take up as much as a quarter of an acre. The millions of acres required to meet U.S. transportation fuel needs would not take the form of one huge ocean patch, but would instead spread across many locations off the U.S. coasts.

The basic technologies behind the plastic bags and forward-osmosis membranes are well tested, but Trent expects to spend more time ensuring that the system can work efficiently and without problems. For instance, plastics have a known weakness to ultraviolet rays from the sun, and so long exposure might represent an issue.

Still, Trent wants to eventually make the plastic bags biodegradable. A future source of such biodegradable plastics might even come from algae-derived oil.

Fuel for the world

Both NASA and the California Energy Commission have helped fund the latest round of Trent's work, in which he aims to get a pilot demonstration up and running. The first experiments might start in closed ponds, and then spread to California offshore locations near San Francisco and Santa Cruz.

Trent acknowledges that challenges remain in figuring out the right algae strains, and in engineering the system to make algae biofuels a cost-effective alternative to existing fossil fuels. In fact, biofuels currently represent one of the least lucrative possibilities from growing algae — converting algae into animal food, fertilizer and cosmetics represents just a few of the more profitable ventures.

Still, the NASA bioengineer hopes that algae biofuels can eventually help satiate rising energy demands, and cut back on greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. The fact that the OMEGA process would clean up wastewater and help sequester carbon dioxide doesn't hurt, either.

A U.S. company Algae Systems of Carson City, Nev., has already licensed the NASA tech, and plans to deploy its own algae bioreactors somewhere off the coast of Tampa Bay, Florida. Trent would like to see the technology spread among companies as an open-source solution.

"I don't want to see any one company that owns the technology," Trent said. He has already begun discussing his work with international delegates at the United Nations Climate Change Conference hosted in Copenhagen, Denmark.

One possible future plan would combine the algae-growth system with a gigantic offshore wind farm being built by Germany, Sweden and Denmark. Wind power could then provide lights to keep algae growing underwater and during the nighttime hours — a fitting vision for the sustainable future of spaceship Earth.

Liquid Planet First on the Market to Release Fully Biodegradable Tea Packaging

2009-12-22T12:12:00.003-05:00

Liquid Planet, Press Release, Dec. 15, 2009

Missoula, MT - Liquid Planet, founded in Missoula in 2003, recently released their 100% organic tea packaged in single serve, fully biodegradable and compostable sachets and clear overwraps, making them the first company to do so commercially in the world.

Although tea companies have been packaging organic tea in recyclable boxes before, this is the first time a tea company has placed clear, single-serve organic tea on the retail market that is environmentally friendly from the tea leaf itself to the last ounce of packaging. Liquid Planet Tea is 100% USDA organic certified and KSA kosher certified premium full leaf tea enclosed in a non-bleached, biodegradable and compostable sachet. The sachet is wrapped in a fully biodegradable and compostable corn-resin overwrap and then packed into recyclable cartons made from post-consumer material in a facility that offsets its energy use with wind energy credits.

The especially unique component of the Liquid Planet packaging is the NatureFlex™ corn-resin overwrap. Although it appears like traditional plastic, instead of oil based materials it is comprised of a naturally-occurring plant starch, making it biodegradable, compostable and sustainable.

Liquid Planet is a Montana based business dedicated to providing products good for the body, spaces that feed the soul and profits that give back to the earth. Liquid Planet organic teas and tisanes are exclusively distributed by ChefEx, the gourmet and specialty division of Sysco Foods. Learn more at
www.liquidplanet.com

Bio-Clean products certified 100% organic and biodegradable

2009-12-22T11:53:00.001-05:00

TradingMarkets.com, Dec. 15, 2009

Industrial cleaners and restoration products distributor Bio-Clean Inc (OTCBB:BOCL.OB) declared on Monday that after testing of three of its products, all have been certified 100% organic and 100% biodegradable.

The products tested were Bio-Clean All-Purpose Cleaner, Bio-Clean All-Purpose Degreaser and Clean-Kill Hand Sanitizer.

According to Bio-Clean the efficacy of all of its products equals or exceeds all similar products currently available.

Real Christmas tree is best for environment

2009-12-22T11:29:00.002-05:00

By Joe Lamp'l, Scripps Howard News Service, FayObserver.com, Dec. 13, 2009

Over the last several years I've researched a lot about various aspects of living a more eco-friendly life. But when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree, everything I thought I was doing right for the environment by using an artificial tree went out the window. And it looks like the message is getting out.

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, Americans purchased about 33 percent fewer fake trees in 2008 than in the previous year. Rick Dungey, public-relations manager for the association, shared a few eye-opening thoughts on the real environmental impact of artificial trees in a recent conversation.

Artificial trees never biodegrade

Although artificial trees can last for years, eventually they are discarded and remain in a landfill forever more. Fake trees are not biodegradable, so they never break down.

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Irish startup turns waste plastic into biodegradable products

2009-12-22T11:20:00.003-05:00

By Lisa Sibley, Cleantech Group, Dec. 9, 2009

What began as research project to produce biodegradable plastics from waste has evolved into a company that now has large scale ambitions.

Ireland-based Bioplastech is converting waste, agricultural byproducts and petrochemical products into value added biodegradable plastic polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), Kevin O’Connor told the Cleantech Group today. PHAs are linear polyesters produced by bacterial fermentation of sugar or lipids, according to Wikipedia, and can store carbon and energy.

O’Connor, who heads the company’s management team, is a senior lecturer in microbiology at University College Dublin, Ireland, which developed the technology and is collaborating with Trinity College Dublin.

Started in 2008, Bioplastech is also looking at waste food oils and biodiesel, though the main driver to begin the 10-employee company was waste plastic, O’Connor said, comparing it to most companies which are going the biomass route. The company is looking to test its lab-proven technology on a larger level.

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What’s Cooking? Recycled Kitchen Countertops!

2009-12-18T16:44:00.002-05:00

Upgrading your kitchen can be a daunting task. And while you probably want the most modern kitchen you can afford, it’s also important to think about the environmental impact of any new items you purchase.
Greenopolis, Dec. 14, 2009

Consumers are more aware than ever about sustainable choices for products for their home improvement projects. A kitchen makeover is a great place to incorporate some earth-friendly choices into your remodeling goals.

For instance, wood countertops, including reclaimed wood countertops, are becoming popular again.

White oak, maple, even madrone - a hardwood known for its reddish hue - are popular choices today. Beautiful, durable, and sustainable, wood is a warm alternative to granite and manufactured stone. Wood has its own natural beauty, holding its own against surfaces with cooler colors and textures.

Many companies also now make butcher block from reclaimed or salvaged wood. Reclaimed wood countertops can be made from pallets, water tanks, even telephone poles. Butcher block can also be made from bamboo, a sustainable wood source. Interested in wood countertops? Start with Endura Wood’s maple butcher block.

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Disruptive tech will transform consumer packaging

2009-12-18T15:43:00.004-05:00

Time-temperature indicators, active packaging, battery-free printed RFIDs and high-barrier biopolymers to have major impact on everyday food, pharma and beverage packaging.
PRESS RELEASE, Converting Magazine, Dec. 14, 2009

Capable of eventually displacing an existing technology and transforming the industrial landscape, disruptive technologies are now revolutionising the consumer packaging industry, according to a major new study by Pira International.

Based on primary research and expert analysis, Forecasts of Disruptive Technologies in Consumer Packaging to 2019 seeks to identify and assess the various, exciting disruptive technologies that are being commercialised in the consumer packaging sector. Classifying technologies on the basis of components (e.g. RFID labels, bioplastics) and end-use packaging products (e.g. beverage containers, blister packs), the study examines the possible integration of these innovative technologies into corporate business strategies and plans.

Generally seen in low or high-end niche markets, a disruptive technology is essentially a new, emerging technology that upends an existing technology and eventually replaces it, or at least is accepted as its equivalent. This occurs even though the new technology originally appears to be inferior or too expensive. These technologies tend to cultivate slowly at first, then grow at an exponential pace. Once established and available at a reasonable benefit-cost ratio, the technology may act like a virus wiping out more conventional technologies and eventually taking over the mainstream.

Recent trends impacting consumer packaging technology include material and energy cost fluctuations due to volatile oil prices, growth of sustainable packaging and new innovations in materials and packaging formats (e.g. increased penetration of flexible packaging and rigid plastic in food packaging).

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Ithaca company turning carbon dioxide into plastic

2009-12-18T13:54:00.003-05:00

Novomer's process gets state investment
By Stacey Shackford, The Ithaca Journal, Dec. 13, 2009

ITHACA -- Pollutants that once belched out of power plant chimneys may soon make an appearance in our refrigerators and reduce our dependency on petroleum, thanks to the pioneering work of an Ithaca company.

Researchers at Novomer at the South Hill business complex have discovered a way to harness the harmful greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) and transform it into a plastic that is not only biodegradable and more energy efficient to produce, but also remarkably durable and light-weight.

They have now teamed up with Kodak and the Rochester Institute of Technology to manufacture products using the plastic and send them into various industries for commercial testing.

Applications of the new technology are almost endless, according to Mike Slowik, strategic planning and analysis manager for Novomer.

Click here to read the full article

Chinese bank launches biodegradable credit cards

2009-12-18T13:49:00.001-05:00

Plastic News, Dec. 11, 2009

China's Shenzhen Development Bank has launched two sets of biodegradable credit cards, which are said to be able to break down to water and carbon dioxide. The bank said one of the green-themed sets comes with paperless statements only, another way to protect the environment.

It's unclear what specific material(s) the cards are made of. But the bank started issuing the first set of four "Beauty Cards" in November, targeting environmentally conscious female consumers.

The second set of four "Green Cards" made a debut in Beijing this week. These cards use electronic statements exclusively, the bank said on its Web site. Users can choose to receive an email newsletter on environmental protection from the bank. They also have the option to redeem membership points for "green products."

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Keep toxins out of our water by buying biodegradable

2009-12-17T18:51:00.000-05:00

Keep our waterways cleaner by paying close attention to what you send down the drain.
By Aileen Brabazon, Homemakers.com, Dec. 7, 2009

Have you ever thought about what goes down your drains?

Besides water, toothpaste, hair dye, shampoo, soap, laundry detergent and bathroom and kitchen cleaners swim through your pipes and eventually end up in our waterways.

And if these products contain chemicals that don't neutralize into harmless compounds, there's a big ecological price to pay. For example, surfactants -- the stuff that makes solutions foam up and spread well -- found in some degreasers, disinfectants and cleaners breakdown into agents that can feminize fish, Adria Vasil reports in Ecoholic (Vintage Canada, 2007). Eek!

To help keep our waters and marine life healthier, choose personal care and cleaning products that are as chemical-free as possible and choose items that quickly biodegrade (the best products often have a certified biodegradable stamp on the bottle and state how long it takes to break down).

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S'pore businesses eye green SIM, smartcards

2009-12-17T10:51:00.000-05:00

By Vivian Yeo, ZDNet Asia, Dec. 07, 2009

SINGAPORE--Mobile operators in the country are exploring the use of biodegradable SIM (subscriber identity module) cards, should the technology become more pervasive.

Spokespersons from all three local operators SingTel, MobileOne (M1) and StarHub told ZDNet Asia they were interested in deploying the eco-friendly alternative.

StarHub's corporate communications manager Cassie Fong said in an e-mail the telco would soon commence "initial talks" with its SIM card supplier "to find out more on the product".

In an e-mail, a SingTel spokesperson noted that the company is already using biodegradable paper material for its pre-paid mobile top-up cards and is currently evaluating the use of biodegradable paper for all its SIM cards.

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Government wants your input on plastic bags

2009-12-17T10:21:00.000-05:00

By Staff Writer, Winnipeg Free Press, Dec. 8, 2009

WINNIPEG - Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie wants your thoughts about what to do with plastic bags.

Blaikie said in a news release today the province wants ideas from consumers, vendors and bag manufacturers. Proposals already before government include:

* plastic carry-out bags sold and distributed in Manitoba contain a minimum of 25 per cent post-consumer recycled material, increasing to 50 per cent within five years;
* all larger stores that distribute plastic bags have take-back programs for recycling plastic bags;
* all plastic bags sold or distributed in Manitoba be imprinted with a message reminding users to recycle or reuse the bag; and
* all compostable or biodegradable plastic bags sold or distributed in Manitoba be required to meet national or international standards and be certified as such.

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Project to Promote Use of Biodegradable Bags Launched

2009-12-17T09:57:00.002-05:00

Project to support recommendations for bioplastics environmental policy
PR Newswire, Dec. 4, 2009

BANGKOK, Thailand - The National Innovation Agency (NIA), Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ: German Technical Cooperation), Thai Bioplastics Industry Association (TBIA) and BASF today launched a pilot project to highlight the potential of composting as a feasible and effective waste management option. The pilot project is a first for Thailand and will demonstrate the use biodegradable plastic bags to collect household organic waste in the most efficient way, as well as the potential of producing organic matter or fertilizer from organic waste.

The project will support the recommendations for the bioplastics environmental policy to build composting facilities in Thailand, as it is the infrastructure required to fully realize the potential of composting. When the model is endorsed, the potential production capacity of high quality organic fertilizer is 6 million tons annually, which could be exported.

"The pilot project is a key initiative towards the development of the bioplastics industry as one of Thailand's new wave industries. In evaluating and developing sustainable options for end-of-life product waste management, we have to remember that landfilling of organic, biodegradable waste generates methane - a greenhouse gas 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide - and composting helps to reduce emission levels of this harmful green house gases. For the first time, since we put forth the road map for the development of the bioplastics industry which was approved by the Cabinet in 2008, we are implementing measures at a community level," said Dr. Suchinda Chotipanich, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology and Chairman of the Bioplastics Industry Development Subcommittee.

As part of the launch, which was held at the pilot plant site in the Kradangar District of Samut Songkhram Province, a community outreach group consisting of community leaders and students promoted the use of biodegradable plastic bags to 730 households.

"The pilot project further demonstrates that Thailand is well-placed to achieve its goals backed by strong supporting industries, international alliances, active industry cooperation and supportive governmental policy. We believe that the project will provide useful information to support recommendations for the bioplastics environmental policy. Additionally, to further raise environmental awareness and encourage the use of environmentally friendly products as a new social norm. This in turn will be a significant boost to Thailand's ambitions of becoming a key bioplastics player in the region" said Dr Supachai Lorlowhakarn, Director of NIA.

Recommendations for the bioplastics environmental policy, which is expected to be completed within the next six months, will outline the infrastructure, framework, instruments and guidelines to promote the use and production of bioplastics in Thailand.

The biodegradable plastic bags could be made of cassava starch and calcium carbonate compounded with BASF's Ecoflex, a fully-biodegradable, compostable polyester which is tear-resistant, puncture-resistant, waterproof, printable and elastic. Ecoflex significantly improves the functionality of raw materials based on renewable resources and as such has been used in the production of the biodegradable bags to provide very demanding mechanical properties.

"Fully biodegradable and compostable polyesters can make a significant contribution to efficient biowaste management. BASF is a global market leader in the area of biobased and biodegradable polyesters, and our Ecoflex is already commonly used in Thailand for organic waste bags, carrier bags and shopping bags. Our participation in the pilot projects demonstrates our firm commitment and contribution towards Thailand's ambitions of developing the bioplastics industry. We believe this project will also be an excellent showcase for other countries in the region which are considering a similar initiative" said Dr. Jens Hamprecht, Head of Global Product Management, Biodegradable Polymers, BASF.

About BASF

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics and performance products to agricultural products, fine chemicals as well as oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF helps its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF posted sales of more than euro 62 billion in 2008 and had approximately 97,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at http://www.basf.com .

MEDIA CONTACTS

National Innovation Agency
Asaya Siriaoutan
Tel: +66-2-644-6000 ext 111
Email: asaya@nia.or.th

GTZ
Siriporn Treepornpairat
Email: siriporn.treepornpairat@gtz.de

BASF
Beverley Tan
Communications Manager
Biodegradable Polymers
Specialty Plastics Asia Pacific
Tel: +65-6432-3284
Mobile: +65-9791-9182
Email: beverley.tan@basf.com

Supriya Kaewjai
Corporate Communications
BASF Thailand
Phone: +66-2-664-9222 ext. 1207
Email: supriya.kaewjai@basf.com

SOURCE NIA; GTZ; TBIA and BASF

Are Biodegradable Bags a Viable Option for Composting?

2009-12-15T17:14:00.002-05:00

By Jennifer Berry, Earth911.com, Dec 10, 2009

Industry and governmental groups partnered to launch a campaign in Thailand to test the option of composting as an effective means of waste management for the country, utilizing biodegradable bags in the collection of household organic waste in the process.

The pilot program will also serve as a foundation for developing Thailand’s bioplastics industry, which was initially conceived in 2008. Some estimates put Thailand’s potential fertilizer generation capacity in the range of 6 million tons annually, creating a potential export product for the country.

As composting programs continue to grow in cities such as San Francisco, broader means of collecting organic waste could be a future challenge.

The use of bioplastic bags could address this issue, and in Thailand, will “further raise environmental awareness and encourage the use of environmentally friendly products as a new social norm,” according to Suchinda Chotipanich, permanent secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology and chairman of the Bioplastics Industry Development Subcommittee.

Click here to read full article

Nutek, LLC Introduces New Soy-Based, Biodegradable Lubricating and Cleaning Wipes

2009-12-08T17:29:00.000-05:00

Nutek, LLC press release, Dec. 8, 2009

CLEVELAND - Launched in 2007, Nutek brings high-performance products to the market with a Smart Green(TM) focus. With 100% biodegradable formulations, superior performance and recyclable packaging, Nutek's products continue to provide safe alternatives to petroleum-based and environmentally-toxic competitors.

Nutek's products are on the shelves of Home Depot, Ace Hardware, True Value, Northern Tool and others. Bolt Off(TM) helps to reduce the frictions that make nuts, bolts and other rusty objects hard to move. LubFix(TM) is a multi-purpose lubricant for squeaks and creaks around the house. Shield It(TM) is a dry lube that protects surfaces from friction, even under tough climate conditions. Simply Soy(TM) is a 100% biodegradable lube that is safe to use around children, pets and food prep areas.

The Chagrin Falls, Ohio Company launched this week its newest line of biodegradable wipe products that both lubricate and clean. This line features extra large, biodegradable wipes or towelettes with soy-based lubricants and environmentally-friendly cleaners. Unlike tube packages, these biodegradable wipes can be kept in a glove compartment, garage storage area or at home with no risk of drying out.

Simply Soy(TM) biodegradable wipes feature the same safe chemistry as the Simply Soy (TM) lubricant, and can be used to clean and lubricate tools and other metal surfaces to prevent rust-build up. The wipes are certified for safe use in food areas. With gentle hand cleaning action, Gas Off(TM) wipes are extra-large and heavy-duty to thoroughly remove, suspend and absorb gas smells from your hands and other surfaces. Grime Off® removes drips and smears from many non-porous surfaces like tools, equipment and much more. These wipes remove oils, dirt, brake dust, grease, hydraulic fluid and other potentially-hazardous chemicals from your hands and other surfaces.

Nutek, LLC is a company that stands for new technology solutions for your everyday, household needs. The company focuses on the creation of greener, sustainable, bio-preferred products that provide businesses and consumers with superior, cutting-edge performance results.

For information, contact either Cathy Horton or Kimberly Novotney at 1-888-NUTEK4U or visit www.nutekformulations.com.

Alternative packaging from biodegradable farm waste

2009-12-06T14:03:00.000-05:00

By Jean-Louis Santini, AFP, Google News, Dec. 6, 2009

WASHINGTON — Two young American businessmen have developed a green alternative to ubiquitous polystyrene packaging -- made from farm waste and mushrooms -- that uses 10 times less energy to produce, and biodegrades into a natural fertilizer.

Called EcoCradle, the product can also be used as insulation and is grown, not manufactured, with no greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO2, as a byproduct, co-inventor Eben Bayer, 24, told AFP in an interview.

"We have developed a platform that we think is perfect for replacing the polystyrene that is used in packaging, because... it is biodegradable and it's created using almost no energy, almost no CO2 emissions," he added.

Bayer and Gavin McIntyre, classmates from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, founded Ecovative Design in 2007 to produce EcoCradle.

"For each unit of EcoCradle we produce, compared to the same unit or volume of polystyrene, we use ten times less energy and emit eight times less CO2 over the life of the product from production, use and to disposal," Ecovative Design CEO Bayer said.

"Our long-term vision is actually to replace all plastic and foams and mitigate their environmental consequences... and this natural platform we have discovered or invented will allow us to do that," he said.

EcoCradle is a patented trademark in the United States and 30 other countries, including the European Union members.

Currently polystyrene, a plastic, is so prevalent in the packaging industry it accounts for 30 percent of all the waste in US landfills, Bayer said.

EcoCradle, on the other hand, degrades naturally in contact with water or moisture and has "a positive impact on the environment... as a natural fertilizer for plants."

The new product is made from agricultural byproducts including cottonseed hulls, buckwheat hulls and rice husk that are mixed with a filamentous fungi -- mycelium -- as a bonding agent -- and allowed to grow inside molds.

The mycelium secretes a powerful enzyme that decomposes the organic waste as it grows. After seven days at room temperature in the dark, a compact, ultralight, malleable material is formed that can resist temperatures of up to 800 degrees Celsius (1,472 Fahrenheit), Bayer said.

The production cost is comparable to that of polystyrene, he added.

EcoCradle is planning to take on the 20-billion-dollar a year polystyrene industry dominated globally by a Dow Chemical subsidiary.

At present, Ecovative Design has a factory in northern New York state, where a staff of eight churn out thousands of EcoCradle packaging for several companies.

"Our vision is to take the same plant we have designed and deploy it next year as a larger facility in the midwest United States, then in Europe and in Asia over the next three years," Bayer said.

The factories require "a fairly low capital investment, in the order of millions of dollars," he said.

"It's low-tech biotechnology... it's almost closer to cooking or farming vegetables than it is to genetic manipulation."

Now You Can Even Die Green: Biodegradable Eco-Coffins Introduced in U.S.

2009-12-05T14:53:00.001-05:00

By David Gutierrez, NaturalNews.com, Dec. 5, 2009

A Colorado-based company is now offering U.S. consumers the option of being buried in a fully biodegradable casket made out of banana sheaves and bamboo.

"As more and more American families and communities look for eco-friendly solutions to everything in life, Ecoffins provides fitting tributes to those choosing to honor their environmentally conscious lifestyle at the time of their death," says the company, Ecoffins USA, on its Web site.

According to Ecoffins USA's marketing director, Joanna Passarelli, the coffins have proved particularly popular in New Mexico, where there is strong support for eco-friendly ceremonies. Passarelli says that the company has also found interest among Jewish and Muslim communities.

Jewish and Muslim tradition discourages anything that would prevent the body from returning quickly naturally to the earth, such as embalming or cremation. This sentiment is shared with supporters of natural burial.

Click here to read the full article

Better Wipes for a Better World! Introducing Gro Baby(TM) Bio Wipes - All Natural and Compostable Baby Wipes, Made from 100% Renewable Resources

2009-12-02T11:16:00.002-05:00

Natural Baby Company's Eco-Friendly Diaper Line Helps Keep the Planet and Baby Clean, from the Bottom Up
The Natural Baby Company, Dec. 2, 2009

BOZEMAN, Mont. - Get to the bottom of greening your baby with Gro Baby Bio Wipes, the latest earth friendly product born from the creators of the Gro Baby reusable diapering system for modern parents. Free of harmful chemicals, compostable and made from 100% renewable materials, the all-natural Gro Baby Bio Wipes offer today's mom and dad a better way to wipe up baby's messes without leaving a mess on the planet.

The essential diapering tool for modern parents on-the-go, Gro Baby Bio Wipes are a natural and effective way to tidy up baby in seconds. Moistened with Aloe Vera botanicals, Vitamin E and purified water, Gro Baby Bio Wipes work to naturally clean, calm and soothe baby's sensitive skin. Made from plant based Ingeo fibers derived from 100% renewable resources, the Gro Baby Bio Wipes are high in strength making them sturdy and tough on messes, but not on baby. Now mom and dad can clean up the most unpleasant diaper change with ease, speed and a minimal impact on our planet.

"The ingredients used in most commercial baby wipes are not only harmful for the planet, but are enough to make both baby and parents uncomfortable," said Kim Ormsby, Creator of Gro Baby. "And as roughly 18 billion disposable diapers are dumped each year, the number of wipes that join them is staggering. At Gro Baby, our mission is to help clean baby's waste without being wasteful to the environment, making the Gro Baby Bio Wipes the perfect addition to our Gro Baby family of earth friendly products."

Unlike other baby wipes that use harsh chemicals, alcohol, perfumes, and even chlorine to scrub babies clean, Gro Baby Bio Wipes are completely free of chlorine, preservatives, alcohol, fragrances, and dyes. Gentler on baby's skin, and gentle on the planet, Gro Baby Bio Wipes are a perfect match to Gro Baby's recently released Bio Soaker diaper pads--the eco friendly diapering system that protects baby and the earth. With compostability at the forefront of Gro Baby designs, Gro Baby's Bio line allows mom and dad to start greening baby early, from the bottom up.

Gro Baby Bio Wipes retail for $5.99 and include 80 wipes in each easy to open and resealable package. Gro Baby can be purchased at: www.TheNaturalBabyCo.com

About The Natural Baby Company:

The Natural Baby Company's mission has always been to create the ultimate in cloth diapering and natural baby products. Gro Baby(TM) a revolution in the cloth diapering has taken the market by storm. The Natural Baby Company's product lines include: Gro Baby(TM), Dream Eze, Tiny Bubbles, Wonder Wraps, Kiwi Pie and Magic Stick(TM). Each product was designed out of necessity and innovation. Buying from The Natural Baby Company means you are purchasing well made, often organic, products that have been tested and proven in the marketplace. Since its inception NBC has practiced supporting small businesses that help sustain healthy lifestyle choices, such as cloth diapering.

Most of us use a lot of oil without ever driving a car

2009-12-02T10:44:00.002-05:00

By Harry Fuller, ZDNet.com, Dec. 1, 2009

Nearly all the plastic and resins in our daily life are–you guessed it–made from petroleum. The case on your iPod and the food wrappers in the vending machine: processed from oil. I recently talked with the CEO of a small firm that hopes to help change that.

He’s Frederic Scheer, Founder and CEO of Cereplast, Inc. The California-based company has two plants turning out plastic resin, one in California and one in Indiana. The raw material for their resins are biomass, from potatoes to corn. Any good source of vegetable starch. Scheer says Cereplast is now working toward using wood chips and other biomass not a potential food.

TWO CLASSES OF PLASTIC RESIN

Cereplast, says Scheer, is already selling two classes of resin. One is compostable. The other is permanent or “hybrid.” The plastic tableware or the biodegradable dog poop bags are in the first class. Plastics for permanent use are found in appliances, toys, toothbrushes, credit cards, card keys, hand-held devices, and cars. That’s the permanent variety.

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Drive  for 'zero  waste  zones'

2009-12-01T13:31:00.000-05:00

Restaurants unite with businesses for greener disposal of garbage.
By Meridith Ford Goldman, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Dec. 1, 2009

Stop. Wait a minute. Did you just throw out that dryer lint? Think of all those Thanksgiving leftovers that might make your garden grow. Did you know that they — along with a multitude of other garbage such as coffee grounds, tea bags, yard trimmings and that apple core you were just about to throw away — are all compostable?

Steve Simon of Fifth Group Restaurants knows. In a move toward helping Midtown become a “zero waste zone,” he’s leading restaurants such as Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria and South City Kitchen into a new era of composting and recycling.

Industry and the private sector setting an example for saving the planet? Did we hear that right?

“As recently as a year ago,” Simon says, “I was the poster child for what not to do.”

Now, he and other members of the Green Foodservice Alliance (an environmental affiliate of the Georgia Restaurant Association, but working to be its own association) are helping restaurants and businesses work to produce “zero waste.” The goal is to recycle, compost, reuse spent grease for biofuel and donate consumable food to charity.

“I don’t know if the restaurant industry is the largest producer of trash, but it’s certainly a possibility,” Simon says. Ecco, Fifth Group’s flagship restaurant in Midtown specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, no longer dumps waste into the garbage — kitchen workers and servers scrape scraps into a compost heap. Fifth Group restaurants no longer have garbage Dumpsters on their restaurants’ sites.

So did big business suddenly get a conscience?

“I think what’s happened over the last few years is that the collaboration between government, the private sector and trade associations has helped get the kinks out of a very kinked-up system,” says Holly Elmore, the founder and executive director of the alliance. Ten years ago, just getting a trash or recycling hauler to come to your business on a regular schedule was a “nightmare,” according to Simon. Now, entrepreneurs such as Farmer D Organics are actually making money from trash and waste.

The bottom line was a motivating factor. “When businesses in Georgia, particularly Atlanta, started losing conventions because the city and state aren’t perceived as ‘green,’ it got business owners’ attention,” Simon says. “It’s really an ‘oh, by the way, this is the right thing to do’ kind of thing.”

Trash as a moneymaking investment aside, why are composting and recycling so important?

Well, let’s go back to environmental protection 101: landfill use would be tops on the punch list. Producing less waste creates smaller landfills. Composting and recycling properly are the way to start. Methane emissions at landfills are contributing factors to global warming, and Americans, according to the EPA’s Web site, produce 4.4 pounds of garbage per person, per day — a figure that has nearly doubled since 1960. Simon’s research estimates that 80 percent of what’s in our landfills might have value — in other words, it could be recycled for profit.

So what can this urban tale teach the average consumer? First, it’s up to you to “take responsibility and learn,” Elmore says. Don’t expect your overworked local government or municipality to lead the way.

“Know your city’s plan and regulations. The last thing we want is for contamination to occur in single stream recycling [all recyclables in one bin] — one mistake, and the whole bin could end up in the landfill,” Elmore explains.

She recommends using a compost tumbler (available at Farmer D Organics and most Whole Foods Markets) for composting, and stresses the importance of proper disposal of kitchen grease. “Don’t pour your grease down the drain!” Elmore exclaims.

Follow the restaurants’ lead and recycle it by storing it in a plastic container, then finding a source in your area such as Green Grease, Inc., a business in Clarkston that has just begun consumer-based programs for dropping off kitchen oils for recycling. Entrepreneurs Todd Williams and Warren Brawley will provide a plastic recycling bin for your used cooking oils for $7, and arrange when to pick it up based on the amount of oil generated. Or you can drop it off at Green Grease in a plastic container. Either way, it’s better than eventually throwing it in the trash.

“Everytime you buy something,” says Elmore, “you really should be thinking about how you’re eventually going to dispose of it.”

Not all garbage is suitable for consumer composting. Recycling and composting regulations differ. Know your city and county’s regulations. For more information, go to www.georgia.uscity.net /Recycling_Centers or www.earth911.com or www.gacompost.org. Contact Green Grease at 678-754-4887 or 404-447-2217.

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Bioamber and Sinoven Partner for Biobased Succinic Acid

2009-12-01T12:58:00.000-05:00

PR Newswire, Dec. 1, 2009

PRINCETON, NJ - Bioamber (a joint venture between DNP Green Technology and ARD) and Sinoven Biopolymers Inc. have signed a supply agreement for biobased succinic acid. Under the terms of the agreement, Bioamber will be Sinoven's exclusive supplier of biobased succinic acid, enabling Sinoven to produce renewable modified polybutylene succinate plastic (PBS).

Sinoven's revolutionary modified PBS has better performance than other biodegradable polymers sold today, with heat resistance above 100 degrees C, excellent strength properties and the ability to be processed in existing production equipment. Sinoven will be the first company to commercialize PBS with renewable content above 50%. Sinoven's modification technology has opened up new markets for PBS, fulfilling end user cost and performance requirements not currently met by other biodegradable polymers. Applications include foodservice coffee lids, cups, dishes, cutlery, straws and stirrers, as well as consumer use products such as disposable razors, writing instruments and cosmetics packaging.

"Affordable, biobased succinic acid is the key to renewable, high performance PBS that can cost effectively compete with today's petrochemical based plastics. Bioamber is the only company supplying commercial quantities of biobased succinic acid. This agreement will enable Sinoven to rapidly move into biobased commercial production and meet the needs of our customers." says Ray Balee, President and CEO of Sinoven. "The fact that the production of biobased succinic acid is a significant consumer, rather than producer, of harmful CO2 greenhouse gas is an added benefit for our customers".

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Western Washington wins green cleaning award

2009-12-01T12:26:00.003-05:00

By DAVE GALLAGHER, THE BELLINGHAM HERALD, Dec. 1, 2009

Western Washington University has won the 2009 Green Cleaning Grand Award for Schools and Universities from American School and University magazine, the top award given in the category nationally.

"We're honored to receive this prestigious award and to be recognized as the national leader in green cleaning. We work hard every year to make our cleaning practices more sustainable and environmentally friendly, and are always seeking ways to improve - and I think that shows in awards such as these," said Tim Wynn, WWU's director of Facilities Management in a press release. "The hard work of our cleaning staff has really paid off."

The award is sponsored by American School and University magazine, The Green Cleaning Network, and Healthy Schools Campaign.

WWU's Academic Custodial Services has been a "green" department for the last six years and has been on the nationally recognized leading edge in the green-cleaning movement for the past nine years. The department has divested itself of petrochemical cleaning products and has begun using compostable trash liners with a goal of reducing the university's waste stream to zero in a few years.

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Biodegradable Bags Are Good For The Environment And Good For Your Business

2009-12-01T11:45:00.004-05:00

Promotional Merchandise, Dec. 1, 2009

For companies that deal with a lot of merchandise, biodegradable bags are an excellent way to help control the amount of damage that your business does to the environment. These bags are designed to dissolve when exposed to the elements. As the process of breakdown is not immediate, the bags are suitable for general purpose use. When it is left out in the environment, they will degrade within several weeks to compounds that can be absorbed into the soil and used by plants as a form of nutrients. In addition to this, depending on the type of bag you invest in, the bags may be recyclable, which allows the materials to be reused several times before it ends up degrading beyond usability. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind if you are intending on purchasing a lot of paper or other natural material bags.

First, you should determine the type of biodegradable bags that you are interested in. The most standard type of bag purchased are paper bags. These are made from trees, which can have both negative and positive consequences on the environment. If the trees that produce the paper are grown exclusively on tree farms, they are always young trees that are kept separate from natural ecosystems and forests. This removes risk of destroying habitats while also allowing the young trees to filter carbon dioxide and convert it to oxygen. However, if the trees are cut from standard forests in the wild, they remove necessary habitats for animal and plant species. If you are concerned about this, it is important that you identify the source of the trees. Using recycled papers for your bags can limit the amount of damage done to the environment as well. The other types of bags are crafted from corn or other vegetable matter. These bags are known to deteriorate far more quickly than paper does, dissolving within weeks of exposure to the elements. This is extremely useful, especially if you anticipate your bags of being discarded extremely quickly. These bags are ideal for food products that have no more than a two week shelf life, as the bags are known to decay after that length of time.

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Click here to view biodegradable bags available from Carolina Green FoodService Supply

Uw-Stout takes initiative on 'green' food packaging

2009-11-30T12:41:00.000-05:00

Move will save energy, reduce carbon dioxide
By Pamela Powers, Leader-Telegram, Nov. 30, 2009

MENOMONIE - UW-Stout's University Dining Services started the semester working toward going more "green."

The service switched to commercially compostable packaging for all food and beverages served in disposable containers.

All of the products used in the university's residence dining halls for take-out food are compostable.

In the university's nine dining retail operations, more than 80 percent of the packaging has been replaced with materials that are compostable.

This includes cutlery, hot and cold cups and lids, plates, hot and cold bowls, straws and clamshell-style hinged containers.

Some packaging is made from corn starch or a material reclaimed from sugar cane, said Ann Thies, director of dining services.

It costs about 60 cents total for a hinged container, a cup and cover, and cutlery, about twice the cost of Styrofoam and plastic, Thies said.

The extra cost is passed on to the people buying take-out food in the cafeteria. In the dining retail areas, the extra expense also is built into pricing.

While the compostable products cost more, their production uses less energy and produces less carbon dioxide compared with the traditional Styrofoam and plastic.

Using a program developed by Eco-Products of Colorado, the primary supplier of compostable packaging, UW-Stout has estimated it will save 2,755 gallons of gasoline and 27,146 pounds of greenhouse gases this school year by not using petroleum-based products.

"From my perspective, it is an important first step," said Sarah Rykal, UW-Stout environmental sustainability coordinator.

The next step will be to find a commercial compost site, which the university hopes to accomplish by January, Thies said. University officials met last month with a waste hauler about the project.

Currently the compostable items are going to a landfill, where they will not turn into compost.

When composting begins, the materials can be reused as ground cover for soil.

Powers can be reached at 715-556-9018 or pamela.powers@ecpc.com.

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Bio-breakthrough in Missoula

2009-11-30T12:01:00.000-05:00

Company says it has found way to mass produce environment-friendly, wide-purpose chemical
AP, Spokesman.com, Nov. 30, 2009

MISSOULA – A former University of Montana chemistry professor said he and other scientists have discovered a way to cheaply produce large volumes of an environment-friendly chemical that has wide applications.

Don Kiely said the new technique means biodegradable glucaric acid can be produced in large enough quantities to make it feasible.

He said glucaric acid can be converted into high-value, bio-based chemicals to be used for such things as road salt and detergents. That means glucaric acid products could replace petrochemicals and phosphates that can last for centuries and harm the environment.

“We all have a chance to save the world bit by bit,” said Kiely, 71. “Our contribution to that would be improving water quality. So many harmful chemical products end up in our groundwater and are our major pollutants. But we think we are onto something that could change that.”

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Reportlinker Adds Lactic Acid - A Global Market Report

2009-11-30T11:38:00.002-05:00

PR Newswire, Nov. 30, 2009

NEW YORK - Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Lactic Acid - A Global Market Report
http://www.reportlinker.com/p0164411/Lactic-Acid---A-Global-Market-Report.html

World consumption of lactic acid stands enthused by its use in key industries such as cosmetics, biodegradable plastics and food additives. The recently uncovered potential of lactic acid as a pH balancer in shampoos and soaps, and other alpha hydroxy acid applications, is expected to pep up consumption in this market. Use of lactic acid in biodegradable plastics is expected to gather momentum, given the rising demand for environmentally friendly packaging. Emerging application possibilities are additionally expected to prop up the market's growth in the upcoming years. Use of lactic acid bacteria in anti microbial compounds, food additives, flavoring agents, and as a substitute for hazardous solvents in industrial applications, will all help ensure steady consumption into the future.

These and other market data and trends are presented in "Lactic Acid: A Global Market Report" by BizAcumen, Inc. Our reports are designed to be most comprehensive in geographic coverage and vertical market analyses.

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New machine turns waste into fertilizer

2009-11-29T12:36:00.001-05:00

By MIKE TRELEVEN, Napa Valley Register, Nov. 27, 2009

At the St. Helena restaurant Press, gone are the days when kitchen staff scraped leftovers into trash bags destined for the landfill.

Instead, the restaurant has installed a state-of-the-art dehydrating system that takes wet food-waste along with other compostable materials and turns it into a dry, nutrient-rich soil additive.

The St. Helena restaurant is the first eatery in the Napa Valley to install the technology, which was developed in South Korea, where it has been in use for 12 years. It has been in the United States for 18 months.

Press’ kitchen staff will never have to cope with flies, rodents and smells or worry about clogging the sewer system with the food waste.

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Pipe-clogging cooking oil recycled into eco-friendly fuel

2009-11-29T12:03:00.000-05:00

By David Kernodle, News 14, Nov. 27, 2009

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CHARLOTTE -- Black Friday isn't just a busy day for shoppers. Plumbers often spend the day clearing pipes clogged with discarded oil from Thanksgiving dinner.

But there are alternatives to dumping it down the drain. Charlotte Energy Solutions owner Mark Englander collects, refines, repurposes and eventually resells any and all old cooking oil -- most commonly for fuel.

“Five gallon jugs for $1.50 a gallon,” he said.

Englander says demand for recycled cooking oil for fuel purposes is so high he can hardly keep up. One of his customers, Vince DiFrancesco, brought in two containers, about four gallons, of leftover cooking oil from Thanksgiving, and less than 10 minutes later, a buyer was in line to ready to fuel his car.

The Charlotte Energy Solutions cooking oil drop-off site is located at 337 Baldwin Avenue, near uptown Charlotte.

Plastic bags: Should we tax the sacks?

2009-11-29T11:30:00.001-05:00

By Dorothy Pellett, The Burlington Free Press, Nov. 29, 2009

What flutters ghost-like from tree limbs, clogs storm drains and plugs the stomachs of sea turtles — OR keeps your library books dry in a storm and stashes your excess zucchini to be hung on a neighbor’s door? Plastic bags can be like a helpful household servant with an evil twin, their usefulness unquestioned but their damage to the environment occurring silently.

Taxing, banning, reusing or simply cutting down on their use — all are solutions up for debate as Vermont environmentalists search for the best solution, and the Legislature is poised to consider bag-tax measures in the upcoming session.

A bill before the House Ways and Means Committee would charge consumers 17 cents for each lightweight plastic bag they take home. State Rep. Johannah Leddy Donovan, D-Burlington, was the lead sponsor among 19 legislators on the bill, which was introduced last session.

“The 17-cent amount seemed significant enough to catch the attention of shoppers,” she said this month. “If we are going to change behavior, we must have a tax that is going to be meaningful.”

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Atlanta airport gets pet-friendly with new dog park

2009-11-27T12:17:00.002-05:00

AP, USA Today, Nov. 27, 2009

ATLANTA — Furry travelers now have a place to stretch their legs at Atlanta's airport.

A new fenced-in dog park is part of the ground transportation center on the west end of the passenger terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The 1,000-square-foot park, which opened on Nov. 18, can accommodate two pooches at a time and features flowers, grass, rocks, benches and two original pieces of art.

Biodegradable pet waste bags are also available there.

Algae Could Be the Key to Ultra-Thin Biodegradable Batteries

2009-11-25T15:02:00.003-05:00

By Ariel Schwartz, Inhabitat, Nov. 25, 2009

Algae is often touted as the next big thing in biofuels, but the slimy stuff could also be the key to paper-thin biodegradable batteries according to researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden. Eventually, the bio batteries could compete with commercial lithium-ion batteries.

Conducting polymers have long been thought to be a solution in developing lightweight, flexible, nonmetal batteries. But up until now, these polymers have had been impractical because regular paper can’t hold enough of them work effectively. Now Uppsala researcher Maria Stromme and her team has found that the smelly algae species that clumps on beaches, known as Cladophora, can also be used to make a type of cellulose that has 100 times the surface area of cellulose found in paper. That means it can hold enough conducting polymers to effectively recharge and hold electricity for long amounts of time.

The algae-based paper sheet batteries hold up to 200% more charge than regular paper-based cellulose batteries, and they can recharge in as little as 11 seconds. Eventually, they could be used in any application that requires flexible electronics — for example, clothing or packaging that lights up. Perhaps most importantly, the algae batteries could one day cut down on e-waste from conventional metal batteries.

Via Live Science

Huge Emissions Savings, Other Environmental Benefits Achieved Through Urban Compost Collection Program

2009-11-25T11:34:00.002-05:00

Recology Press Release, Earth Times, Nov. 24, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO (Business Wire) - Officials and local farmers announced today that city residents and businesses have composted more than 620,000 tons of material, mostly food scraps, through the city’s green cart program. By composting all that food since the program was created instead of sending it to landfill, San Francisco:

* Avoided creating 137,000 tons of methane gas, which the Environmental Protection Agency reports is 21 times more potent than CO2 as a greenhouse gas.
* Sequestered, or put back into the soil, 18,400 metric tons of CO2. That is the equivalent of keeping nearly 3,600 cars off the road.
* Created a total C02E benefit (methane avoided and carbon sequestered) of 155,000 tons. That’s equal to reforesting 35 square miles of sustainable forest for 23 years or offsetting emissions from all vehicles crossing the Bay Bridge for 311 days.

Blumenfeld, Director of San Francisco’s Department of the Environment, and Obama appointee to head US EPA Region 9, said “The reduction in air emissions achieved through the compost program represents real progress and tell us two things. We should compost all our food scraps, and this program should be replicated in many other cities. That would go a long, long way to reducing greenhouse gases.”

These numbers are based on a current, approved protocol set by the Climate Action Reserve. In addition to reducing air emissions, by placing food scraps in compost collection carts San Francisco residents and businesses help local farms improve soil health and structure, increase drought resistance, and reduce and even eliminate the need for supplemental water, fertilizers, and pesticides.

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More West Coast communities banning PS products

2009-11-25T10:48:00.002-05:00

By Mike Verespej, Plastic News, Nov. 24, 2009

WASHINGTON - The bans and initiatives to ban polystyrene takeout food packaging on the West Coast continue to grow.

The town of Issaquah, Wash., with a population of 11,000 some 17 miles east of Seattle, has approved a ban on PS takeout packaging, effective Oct. 1, and said that food service providers should immediately begin to make “reasonable efforts” to purchase recyclable or compostable packaging instead of PS packaging.

Pre-packaged soups and pre-packaged foods that grocery stores, restaurants and food vendors purchase and resell to customers are exempt from the ban, which was enacted Nov. 16.

In California, the town of Del Ray Oaks, with an estimated population of 1,650 three miles east of Monterey, is expected to approve a PS ban when the ordinance is read and heard for the second time Dec. 15. The ban will go into effect 30 days after that.

On a larger scale, Monterey County, which issued a study and a draft proposal for a PS ban earlier this month, will hold three public hearings in December on its proposal and plans to approve the ban early next year with an effective date one year after it is passed.

The Monterey County ban would apply to the approximately 170 restaurants, grocery stores and food vendors that operate within the unincorporated areas of the county. There are estimated 2,200 restaurants, grocers and food vendors in all of Monterey County, with PS bans already in effect in Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel, and with Del Ray Oaks expected to soon join them.

Altogether, 26 California towns and two counties have banned PS takeout packaging, most of them in northern California from the Monterey area to just north of San Francisco. Five California cities and one county have banned the use of PS takeout packaging at city facilities or events.

Further up the coast, Seattle, Portland and Issaquah have PS bans.

On the East Coast, Boston is considering a proposal introduced last month to ban PS takeout packaging at food-service establishments that have more than 5,000 square feet or more than five different locations in the city.

Three of the underlying reasons the bans continue to grow is that legislators view PS takeout packaging as a litter and landfill problem and because PS takeout packaging manufacturers, the industry and restaurants have developed very few programs to recycle PS — which has led to a conviction on the part of legislators that PS food service packaging is not recyclable.

“There are currently no meaningful ways of recycling polystyrene-based food packaging,” said the Issaquah city council in its summary statement that recommended the adoption of the ban.

The Del Ray Oaks council made a similar assertion. “Food service ware made from polystyrene foam is not biodegradable, returnable or practically recyclable,” the Del Ray Oaks council said in its findings. “It is not economically feasible at this time to recycle polystyrene foam in or near the city” — a thought that was echoed by Monterey County in the draft of its proposed ban.

In addition, legislators, in general, have a negative view of PS food service products, even after they receive feedback from packaging manufacturers, grocers, restaurants and industry associations.

For example, the Council Sustainability Committee in Issaquah held six meetings to get feedback from the companies and businesses the ordinance would impact.

But the final summary statement from Issaquah city council still made the assertion that “polystyrene packaging … has many detrimental effects, including the chemicals released during the manufacturing process, the lack of ability to recycle the material in Washington, [and] the volume of landfill space” it occupies. Its “non-biodegradable nature … makes it a major contributor to the litter found along our roadways and in our waterways.”

Its ordinance was equally as blunt in its disrespect for PS food service packaging. “The use of polystyrene-based … food packaging and service ware serves a limited purpose that is disproportionately detrimental to the welfare of the environment [as it is] often used, and disposed of, in minutes or days,” read the bill. “There is no meaningful method of recycling polystyrene-based food packaging and service ware.”

Del Ray Oaks made a similar assertion.

“Take-out food packaging that is biodegradable, compostable or recyclable is the most responsible and sustainable choice for the tourist economy, the citizenry and the environment,” said the Del Ray Oaks council in its findings “Biodegradable takeout packaging [products] do not harm the environment and are not a permanent blight on the landscape.”

The Issaquah ban applies to PS containers, clamshells, bowls, plates, trays, cartons, cups, lids, straws, utensils and any other items used in the food service business, including containers for leftovers. But it won’t apply to lids, containers, knives, forks and spoons used for hot foods and beverages until May 1, 2011.

The Issaquah law also requires all food service business utilize either a commercial food waste recycling service for compostable products and recyclable materials or provide containers onsite for recycling and composting.

Food service operators are also required to use compostable products made solely of organic substances or recyclable products, defined as products made from materials that can be separated from a waste stream and collected and delivered to a processor for reuse or remanufacture.

The Del Ray Oaks ban, expected to be approved Dec. 15, would not apply to single-use plastic straws, cup lids and utensils. It does not have an exemption for hot foods and hot beverage containers, lids and utensils, but, like the city of Issaquah, it will permit food service operators to sell pre-packaged food that food service operators buy and resell to customers.

The Del Ray Oaks ordinance would also require food service operators to use biodegradable, compostable or recyclable products. It defines recyclable plastics as plastics coded with resin identification codes of 1-5 and recyclable as any material that is accepted by the city of special district recycling program, including, but not limited to, paper, glass, aluminum, cardboard and plastic bottles, jars and tubs.

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Environmentalists target foam food trays

2009-11-24T23:40:00.000-05:00

By Laura Isensee, Reuters, Nov. 24, 2009

LOS ANGELES (Reuters Life!) - Environmentalists and green businesses are targeting foam food trays used to sell vegetables, fruits and meat in grocery stores.

The ubiquitous trays, which are made from polystyrene, have a long shelf life in landfills, much like plastic bags which the green brigade also took aim at in recent years.

"The developers of expanded polystyrene made the perfect material. They brought the costs down. Functionally it works great. There are no complaints ... But it never goes away," said Richard Feldman, chief executive of G4 Packaging.

The Los Angeles-based company makes trays primarily from sugar cane pulp that can be composted in 90 days or recycled.

Some U.S. cities have started to limit the use of foam trays. Portland, Oregon passed a ban in 1989 and last year Seattle, Washington voted to ban foam containers from all businesses serving food.

Seattle will ratchet up its measure next year. Beginning in July grocery stores will have to stop using foam trays for meat packaged on site and all businesses must use food containers that are compostable, as well as recyclable.

"Most plastics have pretty significant environmental impacts and we didn't want them sent to the landfill," said Dick Lilly, the business area manager for waste prevention at Seattle Public Utilities.

Smaller cities in Washington followed Seattle's lead while the Costa Mesa, California-based nonprofit Earth Resource Foundation is pushing for statewide ban in California.

"This plastic problem is as big as global climate change ... It hurts your health, the economy and the environment," the group's executive director Stephanie Barger said.

Feldman believes legislative pressure could help to propel eco-friendly trays into a $100 million market.

His two-year-old company has more than $300,000 in monthly sales. Its deals include supplying trays for zucchini and peppers sold at upscale grocer Trader Joe's. A veteran of the food packaging industry, Feldman has previously worked with fast-food giant McDonald's Corp.

But going green in groceries will cost money -- a major hurdle even when the economy is on an upswing. Trays made from natural materials like sugar cane pulp or bamboo weigh more and cost more than traditional foam trays.

Trays made by G4 Packaging can cost 8 cents each, about double the cost of a traditional container, Feldman said.

"At some point more and more people will say I as a consumer am willing to pay three or four cents more in order to go ahead and see this change," Feldman said.

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World's first bio-sourced degradable smart cards

2009-11-24T23:25:00.000-05:00

plastemart.com, Nov. 24, 2009

The world's first bio-sourced degradable smart cards has been introduced by Gemalto. The card body is made from renewable material, is easily recyclable and compostable, and can be incinerated without emissions of toxic fumes. Also, the company offers packaging made from recycled paper and vegetable inks that significantly reduce the product's environmental impact. These bio-sourced smart cards will be ready for mass production in Q1-2010.

This innovation meets the global demand from banks and operators - a bio-sourced smart banking card and a bio-sourced SIM card, each compliant to the industry standards in their respective sector. The bio-sourced smart cards complement Gemalto's portfolio of eco-friendly cards, made from paper-based materials for short-term use (e.g. scratch cards), as well as ABS and PETG based products, a chlorine-free alternative to PVC cards. The company opted for non-chlorine polymers in the late 1990's and today, adopting material stemming from agro-products is a major step forward in promoting sustainable solutions for card vendors and end users alike.

European Bioplastics Conference breaks visitor record

2009-11-24T23:00:00.001-05:00

Packaging, Nov. 24, 2009

The fourth bioplastics industry conference held recently in Berlin set a new visitor record despite the difficult financial situation.

Three hundred and eighty visitors and 27 exhibitors attended the conference hosted by the European Bioplastics Association.

Experts still expect continued growth in the field of compostable and biobased materials.

"Where will the industry be in five years' time?", "What are the trends?", "Which materials will dominate the market?", "How can we communicate the advantages for the environment? and what are the optimum utilisation fields for bioplastics?"

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Biogas made available to UK homes

2009-11-24T22:43:00.003-05:00

Envirotech Online, Nov. 23, 2009

A sustainable energy firm in the UK is set to offer biogas as an alternative fuel to British households.

Power company Ecotricity has announced that it can now supply biogas using a combination of green and brown sources, with the intention of increasing the percentage generated from green fuel as its customer base grows.

The organisation will take compostable waste that would usually go straight to landfill and use it to produce biogas.

According to Ecotricity, approximately 18 million tonnes of food is wasted by British households annually, which could be used to produce enough biogas to supply more than 700,000 homes.

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Mixed Waste Composting Review

2009-11-24T19:03:00.002-05:00

Twelve facilities composting mixed municipal solid waste in the U.S. continue to fill a niche, turning difficult waste streams into useful product.
By Rhodes Yepsen, BioCycle November 2009, Vol. 50, No. 11, p. 23

COMPOSTING mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) is an attractive solution for many communities that want to divert organics from landfills, but don’t have the population density to support a source separated organics (SSO) scheme. These facilities are capital intensive and not always successful, however. About half of the facilities constructed in the U.S. in the last 25 years have closed, with only 12 remaining. Most recently, the plant in Cobb County, Georgia, built to process 200 tons/day of mixed waste, was converted into a materials recycling facility (MRF).

“In the European Union we’re seeing a push for biomechanical waste processing, but that’s in response to mandatory landfill diversion goals,” says Robert Spencer, an environmental planner who helped start up a few MSW composting facilities, including Cobb County. “Without a mandate, economics rule, and right now there aren’t many places in the U.S. with the right conditions.”

Ultimately, the success of MSW composting facilities comes down to site-specific circumstances, such as area landfill fees, local government commitment and possible markets for MSW compost. “There are several variables that can be controlled, such as installing sophisticated screening technology,” says Spencer. “Also, the most successful plants in the U.S. are co-sited with a landfill, which allows for internalized residuals disposal cost and a destination for possible off-spec compost as cover material.”

The MSW composting facility in Delaware County, New York is colocated with a landfill, and Susan McIntyre agrees that this is significant. “Quite a few municipalities tour our MSW composting facility and are interested, but it’s difficult to determine how viable it would be for them,” says McIntyre, Solid Waste Director of the Delaware County, Department of Public Works. “We are uniquely advantaged — isolated, high organics waste stream content, and we can control the waste because we own-operate the adjacent landfill, meaning we aren’t dependent on tip fees to make revenue or meet payroll.”

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There's only one winner in green diapers

2009-11-24T18:17:00.003-05:00

By Ryan Roff, Tainted Green, Nov. 19, 2009

In the past, a green diaper was a cloth diaper. If a family wanted to be eco-friendly and avoid the harsh realities of a diaper sitting in a landfill for half a millennium, they would have to devote a lifetime (or at least it feels like a lifetime) to redundant cleaning and washing. Now, however, hybrid diapers offer the eco-friendly benefits of a cloth diaper with the convenience of a disposable diaper.

Green diapers have become a hot topic because of the distressing statistics surrounding the disposable diaper industry. According to the Real Diaper Association, 27.4 billion disposable diapers end up in landfills. The EPA estimates that is more than 3.4 million tons of waste.

The $5.7 billion disposable diaper industry continues to grow and with its growth, the amount of carbon emitting waste also continues to grow, but a new segment of the market, green diapers, may actually have an environmentally friendly impact.

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A Surge of Student Involvement

2009-11-24T17:45:00.004-05:00

Those involved with the Associated Students of the University of Arizona have initiated a composting program, and are involved in a range of other efforts on campus to promote sustinability efforts.
By Lew Serviss, UANews.org, Nov. 23, 2009

On Veterans Day, when classes were adjourned and many buildings were dark, three environmentally conscious students gathered shortly after 2 p.m. in an aromatic corner of the Student Union Memorial Center basement to weigh kitchen garbage.

Lesley Ash, sustainability director for the Associated Students of the University of Arizona, found their quarry: a garbage can whose lid bore the warning: ASUA Compost, Do Not Touch. Inside were assorted kitchen scraps with a dusting of coffee grounds.

Alex Harris, a sophomore chemical engineering student, hoisted the can onto a scale and Jennifer Tobin, a senior chemical engineering student, read it off: 109 pounds.

The exercise, "a waste audit," was repeated at 9 p.m. After about three weeks of weighing the offerings, the students will have an idea of the amount of compost volume and the capacity of the composter they'll need to buy to begin a student-run composting program. Ash said the projection was that the various Student Union kitchens would produce two tons of compostable food waste a day. This day was especially light because of the holiday.

"We would divert several hundred tons of waste annually," said Ash, a veterinary science senior. She said estimates were that the program could save the University almost $80,000 a year in tipping fees. A small percentage of the compost will be used on campus and the rest will be sold in bulk for bioremediation purposes at the mines or to consumers, she said.

The composting program is just one of eight groups working under the banner of sustainability for the ASUA. Participation has soared from a year ago, Ash said. Her composting group has grown to eight students, each working fours hours a week, from largely just herself a year ago.

This year, more than 50 students have joined the sustainability program as interns – receiving some sort of academic credit – compared to 15 active volunteers a year ago, she said. In fact, there's a waiting list.

The response has been gratifying. "Part of it is to make a measurable difference on campus," Ash said, "but what really drives me is to see students who didn't know about environmental sustainability at the end of the day say, ‘Oh my gosh, I really can make a difference.' It's really cool to see that switch in a student."

In addition to the composting project, the ASUA sustainability program has seven other teams: General Sustainability, Sage Fund, Education/Outreach, Athletics, Garden in the Desert, Solar Dorm Initiative and Earth Day.

The Solar Dorm group is working to install a cogeneration, solar and hot water system on the roof of Posada San Pedro. "We hope to set up live energy monitoring so it would be a good comparative study," Ash said. "From a practical standpoint, we're hoping to save students money" in lower dorm costs.

The Garden in the Desert group was expected to break ground in November for a demonstration and productive garden of native plants at Udall Plaza, Ash said. "The idea is to expand to a larger productive garden where the produce grown would be sold to the Student Union, which would in turn generate compost in a closed-loop cycle," she said.

The General Sustainability group has taken "this really interesting direction," she said. One of their projects is to develop a multilayer interactive map of sustainability elements on campus. "We could give input to campus planners." Students tracked bicycle thefts, mapped high-theft areas and recommended changes to combat theft. "People will ride bikes, hopefully, if there's less of a probability that they will be stolen," Ash said.

The General Sustainability group will also map water flow from campus roofs to identify sites for water harvesting.

The Sage Fund is staffed by interns, Ash explained, but provides seed money to campus sustainability programs independent of the ASUA. The fund was set up that way so that it would not be impeded by a less sustainability-minded ASUA administration, she said.

"Ideally the purpose is the grant cycle, where not just students but faculty can apply for a grant or loan that involved sustainability." The money comes from fundraising, teamed up with the alumni foundation and UA Cares. They're seeking other partnerships as well. "We're seeing where this leads."

The Athletics team has taken on the challenge of trying to establish the carbon footprint of the athletics program.

Education/Outreach is working with elementary and junior high schools near the campus to develop a sustainability curriculum. The group has produced sustainable fashion shows called "Project Greenway," which feature recycled and used clothing to demonstrate "you can be sustainable and be fashionable at the same time," Ash said. "Actually, some of the recycled clothing looked pretty cool."

Ash said she hopes the increasing student involvement signals a change in culture. "It's bringing to a peak in recognition that this is important," she said, "and that ideally it won't regress but it will become second nature." She said a significant number of freshmen have become involved. "They have very original ideas."

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Students participate in composting programs

2009-11-24T14:14:00.002-05:00

BY MARCY MIRANDA, coloradoan.com, Nov. 16, 2009

Students at Lesher IB World Middle School are learning a lesson in waste and recycling: If it was ever alive, it's compostable.

Lesher is one of two Poudre School District schools participating in composting pilot programs, said John Holcombe, the district's environmental and safety coordinator.

Kinard Core Knowledge Middle School has also been trying to reduce its impact on landfills by sorting its waste into compostable material.

"Composting is more sustainable," Holcombe said.

Lesher began its program in September and Kinard in October. Both average between 60 and 90 pounds of compost per day, Holcombe said.

Many everyday items that are not recyclable are compostable, said Annie Carey, marketing director for Clean Air Compost, which is working with Lesher.

Students have been learning items such as egg shells, vegetable peelings, paper towels and coffee grinds can be broken down instead of dumped in a landfill, she said.

Larger composting facilities that use heat to break down materials are also able to break down items not typically recommended for home composting, such as toilet paper rolls, corn-based containers, cups, disposable silverware and meat bones, Carey said.

Her company is also working with several restaurants in town, collecting their compost in an attempt to reduce waste.

"If you think of the volume of food waste, leftovers, cardboard boxes, they can significantly reduce their trash volumes and reduce their trash bill, their cost of compost," she said.

Holcombe was approached by Clean Air Compost, which asked about the possibility of setting up a composting program with the school district. Before taking it districtwide, Holcombe randomly chose Lesher as a pilot site. After getting approval from the principal, the cafeteria added a third waste bin to collect compost.

Students separate their lunch waste into recycling, composting and trash. The compost bin is equipped with a rack and a vent to separate and air out the water from the material, Carey said.

Each day, a different student serves as compost monitor, said Wiley Cate, a counselor at Lesher. Monitors help keep trash, recyclable and compostable material separate and educate their fellow classmates about composting.

"We've been having kids learn about composting and how it really lessens the amount of trash we put into the dump," Cate said. "I know our custodian said it's been cut significantly."

Carey said 18,000 pounds of compost have been picked up from Lesher since September.

At Kinard, the school's environmental group has a worm compost to help reduce the amount of garbage they created, Holcombe said. The success of the worm composting program was so great, the group realized it had more compost than it could feed the worms.

The school approached Holcombe to see if they could also participate in a composting program.

"We are trying all kinds of different things to try and divert the food from landfills," he said.

Holcombe hopes to add a third school to the composting program in January.

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Biopack Announces Initial Sales of New Water Resistant Trays

2009-11-24T13:37:00.002-05:00

Filing Services Canada, Nov. 23, 2009

Hong Kong - Biopack Environmental Solutions Inc. a leading designer, manufacturer, and supplier of 100% biodegradable packaging products, is pleased to provide the following update to its press release dated October 22, 2009 and announce initial sales of a water resistant or "coated" fish tray to one of the largest international food conglomerates in the world. Biopack has designed, tested, manufactured and shipped this new coated fish tray that was custom made upon request to meet packaging needs of the food conglomerate, which operates nearly 3,000 retail stores in the United States and Europe under 11 different brand names generating approximately $40 billion in annual revenue.

Biopack's eco-friendly, 100% biodegradable and compostable coated fish tray was specifically made to complement an existing product within this retailers Sustainable Seafood Program, a 10-point policy which dictates how seafood is purchased and sold, based on social, ecological and economic considerations. The goals of this retail giant for delivering sustainable seafood into its stores are to:

* Promote the sale of seafood that is harvested in a sustainable way;
* Avoid the sale of species that have been over-fished or are in jeopardy;
* Actively work with the industry, NGOs, and governments to monitor and improve long-term viability of fish stocks.

Many global corporations are placing more emphasis on going green and sustainability. For example Walmart's Sustainability Index, announced earlier this year, is part of a major attempt by the retail giant to develop a more transparent supply chain. The index will show what is in each product and how the product is made - from raw materials to disposal. Eco-friendly sourcing of product and eco-friendly packaging are becoming more visible in many companies' business initiatives.

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Freedonia Focus on World Bioplastics

2009-11-23T13:35:00.005-05:00

MarketResearch.com, Nov. 30, 2009 report date

This report discusses world bioplastics demand for the years 2003 and 2008, with forecasts for 2013. Topics covered include demand by product and market; production trends; regional demand overview; demand in North America, Western Europe, Asia/Pacific, and aggregate other regions; industry composition and leading participants. Product segments include biodegradable (starch-based and other) and non-biodegradable bioplastics. Market segments cover nopackaging and packaging. This 28 page report also includes a highlights summary and a resources section.

Click here to read more or order the report

KAIST/LG Chem Improve Bio-Plastics Process

2009-11-23T12:43:00.005-05:00

New process cuts cost and complexity for biodegradable plastics.
By Levi Beckerson, DailyTech, Nov. 23, 2009

Polylactic Acid doesn’t sound like a friendly neighborhood chap, but it is in fact a common plastic. Not only is it biodegradable, it can be made from renewable resources like sugarcane and corn starch. The current common technique for producing PLA is both expensive and complex, involving bacterial fermentation and then chemical polymerization.

A collaboration between KAIST University (Korea) and LG Chem, led by professor Sang Yup Lee, has developed a new process which produces PLA using the same resources. The process is a one-step direct fermentation, but it utilizes a slightly unsavory, though common bacterial component: E. coli.

“By developing a strategy which combines metabolic engineering and enzyme engineering, we've developed an efficient bio-based one-step production process for PLA and its copolymers. This means that a developed E. coli strain is now capable of efficiently producing unnatural polymers, through a one-step fermentation process,” explains Lee.

“The polyesters and other polymers we use everyday are mostly derived from fossil oils made through the refinery or chemical process. The idea of producing polymers from renewable biomass has attracted much attention due to the increasing concerns of environmental problems and the limited nature of fossil resources. PLA is considered a good alternative to petroleum based plastics as it is both biodegradable and has a low toxicity to humans.”

Though the use of E. coli in the process seems at first unsettling, the benefits of such a process are readily apparent. Reduced production cost would allow for greater use of PLA in plastic products, possible reducing or even replacing the need for many of the non-biodegradable, petroleum-based products presently in use. Though it may indeed be a small step, Lee’s team’s research adds another bio-friendly product to a stack of growing “greener” products and resources.

The research work is published in the 50th anniversary of the journal Biotechnology and Bioengineering.

Globe Guard Introduces Eco Friendly Bubble Wrap, Breakthrough in Biodegradable Packaging

2009-11-23T11:41:00.003-05:00

PRWEB, Nov. 10, 2009

Plainfield, IL - Another gap in sustainable packaging has been filled by the Globe Guard Products division of Salazar Packaging, Inc. with the introduction of Eco Friendly Bubble Wrap.

The new material, a general purpose void fill, cushioning, and surface protection packaging product, is now in stock and available for immediate shipment throughout the U.S. market.

Eco Friendly Bubble Wrap is 100% recyclable, 100% degradable, and 100% biodegradable. In addition, it is CFC free / non toxic and does not deplete the ozone layer.

Beyond its impressive sustainable and biodegradable packaging characteristics, the material has excellent stretch to wrap securely around sharp corners and edges, superior strength to maintain protection in harsh shipping conditions, and high air retention to provide long lasting cushioning.

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Resorts work to reduce waste, increase recycling

2009-11-22T15:12:00.002-05:00

By Pamela LeBlanc, statesman.com, Nov. 22, 2009

VAIL, Colo. — Worms that eat coffee grounds. Old motor oil that heats workshops. Patio furniture made of recycled milk jugs.

Colorado ski resorts are going beyond standard recycling in an effort to green up their industry — and lure skiers and snowboarders concerned about the impact their sport is having on the mountains they love.

Sometimes it's hard to reconcile our ski-loving, traveling side with the side that cringes at the environmental effect of all those people on the snowy slopes and the travel we do to get there. On one hand, you're gliding past pristine, snow-frosted pines, sucking crisp mountain air into your lungs and bursting with love for the outdoors. Then you sit down for an hour at an on-mountain restaurant and watch heaps of napkins, disposable silverware and plastic cups get tossed in the garbage can.

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What's on the horizon for eco-friendly products?

2009-11-22T14:54:00.001-05:00

By Heidi Thorne, The Business Ledger, Nov. 21, 2009

The eco-friendly product world continues to evolve. Since staying on top of what’s happening in this arena is critical for my business, I thought I’d share with you some of the trends that I see emerging:

Plastics that safely degrade/biodegrade

Since petroleum-based plastics can have life spans that run into millennia, I think we will see a preference for degradable and biodegradable products that don’t add to the billions of tons of waste plastic already in existence.

You might ask why we can’t just recycle all that plastic. The answer is that we can, but the levels of participation in recycling are still very low.

Let’s take plastic bags for example. The Worldwatch Institute reports that each year Americans “throw away” about 100 billion plastic bags; only 0.6 percent is recycled.

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Ban on plastic bags now gets thicker

2009-11-22T02:49:00.000-05:00

By DNA Correspondent, DNA, Nov. 20, 2009

Gandhinagar, India: Following the Union ministry of forest & environment's new guidelines, the state government is likely to publish a notification banning manufacturing and use of 40 micron and 12x18 inches plastic bags. Plastic bags of 20 micron have already been banned.

State government sources said that non-recyclable laminated plastic/metallic pouches, multilayered packaging, and other non-recyclable plastic too would be prohibited.

Biodegradable plastic bags or containers or pouches or multilayered packaging made from biodegradable plastic films will have to meet BIS specifications. Under the newnorms, each carry bag will have to carry either 'Virgin Plastic' or 'recycled plastic' or 'bio-degradable plastic' markings. Manufactures will be required to print their name and address on the plastic carry bag."

Sources further said that the government may also ban use of plastic in eco fragile, tourist spots and in public places among many other sensitive areas. State chief secretary, D Rajagopalan has asked state forest & environment department to stringently follow the central government order.

Emarat uses only Biodegradable Plastic bags in all its Service Stations

2009-11-22T02:36:00.003-05:00

Al Bawaba, Nov. 19, 2009

Emirates General Petroleum Corporation "Emarat" is using eco-friendly biodegradable plastic bags in all its service stations in Dubai and Northern Emirates reaffirming the Corporation's commitment towards the environment's safety and green standards.

Mr. Hussain Kazim, Manager Corporate Communications at Emarat, said that the Corporation is well aware of the risks imposed by use of regular indecomposable plastic bags on the environment. He said “Emarat stands committed to taking strict measures to ensure that we play a responsible and active role in the local community to reduce such waste. Biodegradable bags have been designed to protect the environment as they decompose once exposed to sunlight or buried underground.“

To further this positive initiative Emarat has instructed all its sites not to give out shopping bags on purchases of small items but only on major purchases or when requested by the customer.

He urged others in the region to follow suit emphasizing that a collective effort from all retailers will have a sizeable impact on protecting the tomorrow of our children!

BASF's biodegradable plastic: from paper cups to packaging

2009-11-22T00:37:00.004-05:00

The German company says its new products made of renewable raw materials are expected to be introduced to the market in the first quarter of 2010.
by Lisa Sibley, Cleantech Group, Nov. 13, 2009

The world's leading chemical company BASF said it has added a new biodegradable plastic to its existing Ecovio product line.

The Ludwigshafen, Germany-based (ETR:BAS) company said the plastic has specific applications in coating paper and for manufacturing so-called shrink films, which are used to wrap packaged goods. The products have been branded as Ecovio FS Paper and Ecovio FS Shrink Film.

“In order to obtain effective paper coatings, a film made of the new Ecovio FS Paper has to be easy to process and exhibit good adhesion to the paper, even when applied in thin layers. Such coatings are used, for example, on paper cups or cardboard boxes,” said BASF’s Gabriel Skupin, in a news release. Skupin heads the company’s technical product development for biodegradable plastics.

The products mark a company effort to be more specialized with its offerings for specific market segments. The plastic—made of biodegradable polyester and polylactic acid extracted from corn starch—also biodegrades more rapidly than its predecessors and has a higher content of renewable raw materials, BASF said.

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Where To Take Thanksgiving Cooking Oil?

2009-11-21T21:17:00.007-05:00

The green way to dispose of used cooking oil

Charlotte Energy Solutions, is accepting used cooking oil for recycling purposes.

Drop it off at our location day or night.

337 Baldwin Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28204

(704) 333-4358 or mark@charlotteenergysolutions.com

Thinking of making fried turkey this Thanksgiving? Thousands of Charlotteans do each year and some would argue it's the only way to go, but clean-up can be troublesome. Luckily, there are many options for how to dispose of the remaining cooking oil.

Cooking oils can usually be used multiple times when used for deep-frying. Simply strain the left-over oil to remove any batter pieces or other debris, place the oil in a clean, sealable plastic container and use it again.

Small amounts of cooking oil can also be combined with organic materials for composting, or soaked into shredded paper and discarded in the trash.

With 3 to 5 gallons of cooking oil, however, it isn't practical to simply toss it into the trash -- and forget about pouring it down the drain!

Cooking oil and grease poured down drains can build up in pipes causing backups at home, in municipal water systems, and wreak havoc on sewage treatment. Dumping into a storm drain is even worse, because all that grime will flow directly into lakes, rivers and oceans and pollute natural habitats.

Instead, large quantities of oil can be recycled and turned into other products -- including biodiesel fuel.

We are centrally located near downtown Charlotte between the two hospitals at

Charlotte Energy Solutions
337 Baldwin Ave,
Charlotte, NC 28204

(704) 333-4358
mark@charlotteenergysolutions.com
www.CharlotteEnergySolutions.com

Carolina Green FoodService Supply - Biodegradable, compostable, & sustainable foodservice packaging & restaurant supplies.
http://carolinagreensupply.com

FTC cracking down on bamboo claims

2009-08-17T22:58:00.003-04:00

New publication helps retailers, suppliers follow guidelines
Home Textiles Today, Aug. 17, 2009

New York – The Home Fashion Products Association has issued an alert about the Federal Trade Commission charging suppliers with deceptive labeling and advertising over the use of the word “bamboo.”

The FTC has charged four sellers of clothing and other textiles products for claiming bamboo construction on products manufactured from rayon. The complaints also charge the companies with making false and unsubstantiated “green” claims that the products are manufactured using an environmentally friendly process, that they retain the natural antimicrobial properties of the bamboo plant, and that they are biodegradable.

“It is a violation of the FTC textile labeling rules to identify a fabric as simply 100% bamboo or 100% bamboo rayon. Bamboo is not a generic fiber,” wrote Robert Leo of Meeks, Sheppard, Leo & Pillsbury, the association’s counsel.

Rayon is the generic name for a fiber made from cellulose such as pine, spruce, hemlock or bamboo.

Click here to read the full article

Sprint rolls out eco-friendly phone

2009-08-09T22:32:00.002-04:00

By STEVE ROSEN, The Kansas City Star, Aug. 6, 2009

Reduce, reuse, redial.

Maybe that could be Sprint Nextel’s marketing campaign for a new “eco-conscious” cell phone rolled out Thursday. It’s made partly from corn.

The Samsung Reclaim, according to Sprint, is constructed with 80 percent recyclable materials, the highest in the industry. The outer packaging is made from 70 percent recycled materials. Printed materials, including the warranty information, use soy-based ink.

Several manufacturers have made “green” phones, but they have generally been bare-bones devices, such as the Motorola Renew carried by T-Mobile USA. But the Reclaim offers e-mail, texting, camera options, even a keyboard button that takes users to green-themed Web content.

Click here to read the full article

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Also see:

Sprint, Samsung Launch Biodegradable Phone Made of Corn

PrimeWare Introduces New Product to Industry!

2009-08-09T12:26:00.004-04:00

by Lauren Koch, PrimeWare Press Release, June 6, 2009

Azusa, Ca – PrimeWare has just recently introduced its newest product, PLA (polylactic acid) lined hinged lid containers. PrimeWare’s addition of PLA lining to bagasse hinged lid containers is the first of its kind on the market. PLA lining is so revolutionary because it puts to rest many people’s issues with extremely hot foods or heavy sauces in bagasse containers. The PLA lining on bagasse creates not only a complete moisture barrier, but also a total grease barrier.

PrimeWare’s sales manager Sarah Kritscher says, “We have had great feedback about our new PLA-lined containers which were introduced at the National Restaurant Show...

Numerous large distributors and restaurants came to see the introduction of this new product and were impressed. Many of the companies placing hot food in bagasse containers have previously received complaints from customers who bring their food home to find soft containers with moisture on the bottom. The PLA-lining keeps all of the Eco-Friendly components while adding an extra layer for strength and protection, virtually eliminating all prior issues. Bagasse is an affordable alternative to Styrofoam and has now become an option for basically all type of food, hot or cold.”

Regular “plastic-looking” PLA containers don’t hold up well to heat. The PLA lining on a bagasse container is much more heat resistant because the PLA sheet is very thin and is, in essence, “melted” onto the container. The PLA lining is made from cornstarch, which is biodegradable and compostable, keeping the Eco-Friendly properties of PrimeWare's entire line.

The rest of PrimeWare's line includes: "un-lined" hinged lid containers, plates, bowls, platters, trays, cup carriers, and utility trays.

The video posted here is an example of a restaurant, "The Lunchbox" in Knoxville, TN, who has chosen to "go green". The video shows why they made the decision and the advantages they see of using "green" tableware over Styrofoam. Check out the article here.

Governor Perdue Announces Reforms to Strengthen Green Economy

2009-08-09T05:50:00.001-04:00

Office Of Bev Perdue, Press Release, May 21, 2009

Governor Bev Perdue today announced her energy reform package to attract businesses, create jobs and promote a strong and sustainable green economy in North Carolina. She made the announcement at the SAS Solar Farm in Cary, which provides solar-generated power to Progress Energy.

“Developing our green economy is a cornerstone of my vision for North Carolina’s economic future,” Gov. Perdue said. “Creating green jobs and businesses is a key part of my JobsNOW initiative, and the energy reforms I am implementing will lay the foundation for North Carolina to lead the nation in green energy.”

Gov. Perdue’s energy plan refocuses state energy policymaking, makes strategic investments in North Carolina’s green economy and increases green-collar workforce development.

“The state that gets green right will own the next 50 years,” Gov. Perdue said. “I intend for North Carolina to be that state.”

Governor Perdue’s energy plan:

* Relocate the State Energy Office and state weatherization program to the Department of Commerce: The weatherization program will be transferred to the State Energy Office from the Department of Health and Human Services. The State Energy Office will be transferred to the Department of Commerce from the Department of Administration, and will be led by a new energy advisor. Establishing the Department of Commerce as the home for state energy policy will improve coordination across programs to deliver these services more efficiently and effectively.

* Reinvigorate the Energy Policy Council: The plan reduces the number of council members and improves representation for environmental groups, alternative energy producers and energy services specialists. The council will work with the State Energy Office and the energy advisor to help create a comprehensive energy policy that encompasses renewable energy and energy efficiency and that uses existing energy assets wisely.

* Establish an Energy Investment Revolving Loan Fund: With $18 million in federal recovery monies, this innovative fund will provide low- and no-interest loans to finance energy-saving projects at businesses, local governments, non-profits, state agencies, community colleges, universities and public schools. The loans will be awarded for up to $1 million. The fund will extend the scope of federal recovery funds and will ensure that these funds continue to support the state’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency well into the future.

* Expand the Green Business Fund: $10 million in federal recovery funds will be used to expand the Green Business Fund, which Gov. Perdue led the drive to create in 2007. The fund awards competitive grants to North Carolina businesses and organizations with innovative projects in biofuels, green construction, environmentally friendly technology and renewable energy products.

* Grow North Carolina’s green workforce: Gov. Perdue’s JobsNOW initiative will provide green-collar jobs training and retraining in community colleges. As part of JobsNOW, the governor will use nearly $7 million in federal recovery funds to develop a program in universities, community colleges and workforce agencies that will meet the training and workforce needs of the emerging green economy.

* Invest federal recovery monies for other energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in small businesses, communities and homes across North Carolina: Other investments using federal recovery funds include $12 million to support energy savings and renewable energy initiatives in small businesses and industries, $58 million for energy and efficiency block grants to cities, counties and tribes, and $12 million for energy efficiency audits and improvements for new and existing homes, among others.

N.C. Senate passes plastic bag ban

2009-08-09T05:41:00.001-04:00

UPI.com, May 14, 2009

RALEIGH, N.C. -- A bill aimed at encouraging reusable cloth bags in coastal North Carolina has passed the state Senate with only one dissenting vote.

The measure would ban larger stores, those with 5,000 square feet or more of floor space, from giving shoppers plastic bags, The Raleigh News & Observer reported. They would be allowed to use bags made from recycled paper.

The bill would apply to Dare, Hyde and Currituck counties, which include the Outer Banks and the mainland on the other side of the inland waterway. But backers say they hope to extend the ban to the entire state if it is effective along the coast.

Senate President Marc Basnight, a Democrat who represents Dare County, said plastic bags are littering the landscape on the Outer Banks.

San Francisco is the only place in the country so far to ban plastic bags, although a number of other jurisdictions have adopted or are considering laws aimed at discouraging their use.

BioCycle Celebrates 50 Years

2009-05-17T23:36:00.002-04:00

BioCycle, April 2009, Vol. 50, No. 4, p. 42
by Nora Goldstein

"A New Name For A New Era.”

That was the title of Jerome Goldstein’s January-February 1981 editorial announcing our publication’s change in name to BioCycle. When the magazine was founded as Compost Science, its goal was “rather simple,” notes Jerry: “To report the technical, scientific and practical developments in the field of large-scale composting.”

In January 1978, ownership of BioCycle shifted from Rodale Press to The JG Press, Inc., and the publication’s name was expanded to Compost Science/ Land Utilization (CSLU). In his January-February 1978 editorial, “Turning The Corner With Compost Science,” Jerry notes that the magazine was not only in a transition of ownership, but in a transition of focus. “The journal has been credited with ‘moving the world of composting from small backyard plots to huge metropolitan waste treatment agencies.’ We feel it is no longer enough to be an authoritative reference publication; now it’s time to be an action publication as well — one that makes a great impact upon waste management decisions throughout the nation and the world.”

CSLU was a transitional name, he writes in January-February 1981. More importantly, “our coverage led us into systems and technologies that — while consistent with our editorial philosophy of serving as a clearinghouse for data on converting municipal and industrial organic wastes into useful products — were rather tenuously connected to our official name. Coming up with a new name after 20 years, however, is not a simple matter — at least, it wasn’t simple for us. For reasons you can appreciate, we were determined to find a one-word title.

“The name BioCycle fits well. Our unifying theme is biomass recycling … and biological waste management. It’s a new word, but we see no problem with that. We have entered a new era and the old ways and attitudes of dumping and incinerating are patently unfeasible and unacceptable.”

This 50th Anniversary Commemorative Edition highlights the early, formative years that built the foundation of knowledge and experience we are celebrating in 2009. The following pages include: the inaugural Spring 1960 Editorial; “Compost News” items, the predecessor to Regional Roundup and BioCycle World; a smattering of historic letters; the History of BioCycle, Part I; editorial and article reprints; and many nostalgic photos and figures that illustrate the industry’s evolution.

Subscribe to BioCycle

Visit BioCycle's website

Heritage BioTuf® Compostable Bags

2009-05-17T23:04:00.010-04:00

Why did we develop BioTuf®?

Over the past 40 years, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that there are four times as much trash generated in the U.S., yet there are only one-fourth of the amount of landfills available. We believe that the process of turning organic trash into compost, or “composting” is becoming a significant future trend in how the U.S. manages its almost 230 million tons of Municipal Solid Waste.

One of the key elements in managing this process is to have biodegradable trash bags available that meet ASTM standards for compostability, so that the bags used for trash collection can turn into compost along with the rest of the organic trash in an actively managed compost facility. That’s why there are Heritage BioTuf® Compostable Bags!

BioTuf® Products are Engineered to Perform!

Superior strength designed for:

• Pre- & post-consumer food waste diversion programs
• Municipal curbside yard waste collection programs
• Excellent puncture and tear resistance
• Proven lifting strength and load capacity
• Odor control
• Dissipates moisture

Engineered for the Environment!

• Meets ASTM D6400 specifications for compostability
• Certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
• Photodegrades

Heritage BioTuf® Compostable Bags
http://www.heritage-bag.com/biotuf.htm

Biodegradability & Compostability

2009-05-17T10:30:00.010-04:00

Bioplastics can take different length of times to totally compost, based on the material and are meant to be composted in a commercial composting facility, where higher composting temperatures can be reached and is between 90-180 days. Most existing international standards require biodegradation of 60% within 180 days along with certain other criteria for the resin or product to be called compostable. It is important to make the distinction between degradable, biodegradable and compostable. These terms are often (incorrectly) used interchangeably.

Compostable Plastic is plastic which is "capable of undergoing biological decomposition in a compost site as part of an available program, such that the plastic is not visually distinguishable and breaks down to carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass, at a rate consistent with known compostable materials (e.g. cellulose). and leaves no toxic residue." American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM). In order for a plastic to be called compostable, three criteria need to be met:

Biodegrade - break down into carbon dioxide, water, biomass at the same rate as cellulose (paper).
Disintegrate - the material is indistinguishable in the compost, that it is not visible and needs to be screened out
Eco-toxicity - the biodegradation does not produce any toxic material and the compost can support plant growth.

Biodegradable Plastic is plastic which will degrade from the action of naturally occurring microorganism, such as bacteria, fungi etc. over a period of time. Note, that there is no requirement for leaving "no toxic residue", and as well as no requirement for the time it needs to take to biodegrade.

Degradable Plastic is plastic which will undergo a significant change in its chemical structure under specific environmental conditions resulting in a loss of some properties. Please note that there is no requirement that the plastic has to be degrade from the action of "naturally occurring microorganism" or any of the other criteria required for compostable plastics.

A plastic therefore may be degradable but not biodegradable or it may be biodegradable but not compostable (that is, it breaks down too slowly to be called compostable or leaves toxic residue).

Estimated Composting Times

The rate of biodegration for different biocompostables is dependent upon the composition and thickness of the material as well as composting conditions. Commercial composting facilities grind the materials, turn over the piles and reach high temperatures, thus reducing the amount of time it takes to compost and, is thus, the recommended method for composting these products. Home composting rates are slower and can vary, depending on how frequently the pile is turned over, the moisture and material content and the temperature.

Standards
There are currently few international organizations which have established standards and testing methods for compostability, namely:

American Society for Testing and Materials ASTM-D6400-04
European Standardization Committee (CEN) EN13432
International Standards Organization (ISO) ISO14855 (only for biodegradation)
German Institute for Standardization (DIN) DIN V49000

The ASTM, CEN and DIN standards specify the criteria for biodegradation, disintegration and eco-toxicity for a plastic to be called compostable.

Biodegradability is determined by measuring the amount of CO₂ produced over a certain time period by the biodegrading plastic. ASTM, ISO and DIN standards require 60% biodegradation within 180 days. The EN13432 standard requires 90% biodegradation within 90 days.
Disintegration is measured by sieving the material to determine the biodegraded size and less than 10% should remain on a 2mm screen for most standards.
Eco toxicity is measured by having concentrations of heavy metals below the limits set by the standards and by testing plant growth by mixing the compost with soil in different concentrations and comparing it with controlled compost.

In the USA, the BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) certifies bioplastics under the ASTM-D6400-04 standard for "compostable plastics" and awards their logo to products which pass this certification.

The Natureworks resin is certified by BPIWorld.Org.

This article is from World Centric's website www.worldcentric.org.

Foodservice packaging leaders Wilkinson Industries and Dispoz-o Products announce merger

2009-05-16T23:33:00.007-04:00

Press Release, May 5, 2009

Ft. Calhoun, NE and Fountain Inn, SC (May 5, 2009) Wilkinson Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of foodservice containers and Dispoz-o Products, Inc., an innovative producer of premium disposable plastic cutlery, drinking straws, meal and dietary kits have merged, effective April 30, 2009.

The announcement was made by privately-held Mid Oaks Investments LLC, Buffalo Grove, IL. The company has invested in the food packaging industry for almost 20 years and has owned Wilkinson since 2004. Mid Oaks purchased Dispoz-o for an undisclosed amount.

“By bringing these two industry leaders together, the new company will be in a unique position to serve its customers through a wider product offering,” said Wayne Kocourek, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO), Mid Oaks. “We are excited to add Dispoz-o to our portfolio.”

Gregory Jehlik, who has been Wilkinson’s president and CEO since 2007, also has been given the same responsibilities for Dispoz-o.

“Both Wilkinson and Dispoz-o have differentiated themselves as niche manufacturers, who have withstood the test of time. Collectively, the companies have more than 100 years of industry experience. Both have been driven by innovation and, more recently, a commitment to manufacturing sustainable products,” Jehlik said.

Going forward, the new company will serve the foodservice/restaurant, grocery, food processor, educational, institutional and healthcare markets through one million square feet of manufacturing and distribution space located in Nebraska, South Carolina, Texas and California.

Production capabilities include injection molding, thermoforming, extrusion, aluminum stamping, printing and kit packaging. The merged companies collectively employ approximately 1,000 people and operate 110 production lines.

Peter Iacovelli, who founded Dispoz-o as an innovative supplier in 1963, is retiring and Joseph Lancia, Dispoz-o’s former CEO, who led the company to a doubling of its size during the last six years, remains in a consulting capacity.

“From bringing the first Swanson® TV dinner tray to the marketplace in 1953, to pushing the envelope on sustainable offerings in 2009, Wilkinson has always prided itself in taking a leadership position. By merging with Dispoz-o, we will now be able to extend our product line more broadly than ever before. This means we will be able to provide an even higher level of service and innovation for our collective customers,” Jehlik said.

“The Dispoz-o team couldn’t be more pleased to be joining forces with another innovative, service-oriented company. Dispoz-o’s customers will now have an opportunity to be better served by a wider array of products,” Lancia said.

About Mid Oaks Investments LLC

Founded in 1986, Mid Oaks, Buffalo Grove, IL, is a private firm whose principals have substantial experience in financial, operating and general management. The company invests its own capital and focuses on acquiring equity positions in established businesses with strong growth potential. For more information: www.midoaks.com.

About Dispoz-o Products, Inc.

Dispoz-o Products, Fountain Inn, SC is a customer-focused, quality-driven manufacturer of premium disposable plastic cutlery, drinking straws, meal and dietary kits serving the foodservice/restaurant, grocery, processor, education, healthcare and other industries. Marketed under its Enviroware™ brand, Dispoz-o was one of the first U.S. companies to introduce environmentally-friendly cutlery, foam products, straws and kits. Dispoz-o was founded in 1963. For more information: www.dispozo.com.

About Wilkinson Industries, Inc.

Wilkinson Industries, Fort Calhoun, NE has been a leader in foodservice/restaurant, grocery and food processor packaging for more than 50 years. The company manufactures in excess of 450 packaging containers made from a variety of materials including aluminum foil, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and oriented polystyrene (OPS). Wilkinson also has taken a leadership position in the manufacturing of sustainable packaging by creating products from 100% renewable resources such as corn starch-based polylactic acid (PLA) biopolymer. For more information: www.wilkinsonindustries.com.

Standards / Specifications / Certifications

2009-05-15T17:52:00.005-04:00

American Society for Testing and Materials ASTM-D6400-04
European Standardization Committee (CEN) EN13432
International Standards Organization (ISO) ISO14855 (only for biodegradation)
German Institute for Standardization (DIN) DIN V49000
Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certifies ASTM-D6400-04

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2008-07-01T19:57:00.000-04:00

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2008-07-01T19:25:00.000-04:00

Click here for details about segways available from Charlotte Energy Solutions

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2008-07-01T17:42:00.000-04:00

Contact Us

2008-06-21T21:37:00.002-04:00

Carolina Green FoodService Supply

phone: (888) 345-9273
fax: (704) 780-1587
email: info@carolinagreensupply.com
website: http://carolinagreensupply.com
blog: http://greenbiodegradable.blogspot.com
address: 337 Baldwin Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28204

Cereplast, Inc., MeadWestvaco Corp. and Solo Cup Company Announce Successful Development of Degradable Paper Coating

2006-08-07T23:58:00.002-04:00

Press Release, August 7, 2006

HAWTHORNE, Calif & RICHMOND, Va. & HIGHLAND PARK, Ill. -- Cereplast, Inc. (OTCBB:CERP), producer of proprietary bio-based resins, global packaging company MeadWestvaco Corporation (NYSE:MWV), and Solo Cup Company today announced that MeadWestvaco is completing development of a fully renewable and biodegradable (or compostable) extrusion-coated paperboard product made with Cereplast resins that Solo can manufacture into cups.

This groundbreaking application will address customer interest in compostable foodservice products that are made from renewable resources. Until now, the plastic coating for laminated paper and foodservice packaging has been produced from petroleum-based resins. The Cereplast coating, with a heat resistance of 220 degrees Fahrenheit, will be used to replace petroleum-based coatings in MeadWestvaco's laminated paper products manufactured for Solo. With this breakthrough, Solo will be able to produce cups and other paper goods made from renewable resources that are suitable for composting in an industrial facility. Initial targets include the growing number of cafeterias and foodservice operations that divert their organic wastes to composting facilities.

The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) has granted MeadWestvaco and Cereplast the first-ever use of its logo for coated paperboard (including corrugated cardboard) with thicknesses of 4.6 pt to 32 pt. Products bearing the BPI logo meet ASTM D6868 and are designed to biodegrade quickly, completely and safely, without leaving any plastic residue in commercial and municipal composting facilities.

Cereplast resins are formulated from a patented and proprietary manufacturing process that incorporates starch and other degradable components, including poly lactic acid (PLA) from NatureWorks, LLC. Cereplast resins can be substituted for petroleum-based resins in a wide variety of processes, including injection molding, extrusion and thermoforming.

"MeadWestvaco and Solo's perseverance in working with us to achieve this milestone clearly demonstrates their commitment to extending the renewability of their paper products to coatings, creating a fully degradable option for paper foodservice and packaging solutions," said Frederic Scheer, President and CEO of Cereplast.

Added Kevin Fortney, Business Manager -- Foodservice, MeadWestvaco, "Cereplast's resins offer a flexible, practical solution to demand for renewable and degradable paper-coatings. Working together, we are creating a product that will have a wide range of applications. We are especially gratified that this is the first such product to receive certification by the BPI."

Noted Bob Korzenski, President and Chief Operating Officer, Solo Cup Company, "Solo has a history of solving problems for its customers and consumers through innovation in disposable foodservice products, materials and processes. We are excited to contribute our expertise in developing and manufacturing environmentally friendly products to our work with MeadWestvaco and Cereplast."

About Cereplast, Inc.

Cereplast, Inc. (OTCBB:CERP) designs and manufactures proprietary starch-based, renewable plastics. Cereplast has developed a breakthrough technology to produce proprietary bio-based resins, which are used as substitutes for petroleum-based plastics, offering price stability and competitive costs compared to traditional resins. Cereplast resins can be used in all major converting process such as injection molding, thermoforming, blow molding and extrusions. Made from renewable resources such as corn and potato starch, Cereplast resins are certified biodegradable and compostable by BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) and have comparable or superior performance characteristics to conventional plastics and return to nature quickly and safely. Learn more at: http://www.cereplast.com

About MeadWestvaco Corporation

MeadWestvaco is a global packaging company that delivers high-value packaging solutions and products to the world's most recognized companies in the food and beverage, media and entertainment, personal care, cosmetic and healthcare industries. The company also has market-leading positions in its Consumer & Office Products, Specialty Chemicals and Specialty Papers businesses. MeadWestvaco, with operations in more than 29 countries, has been selected for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, and manages all of its forestlands in accordance with internationally recognized forest certification standards. For more information, please visit www.meadwestvaco.com.

About Solo Cup Company

Solo Cup Company is a $2.4 billion company exclusively focused on the manufacture of disposable foodservice products for the consumer/retail, foodservice, packaging and international markets. Solo Cup has broad expertise in paper, plastic and foam disposables and creates brand name products under the Solo, Sweetheart, Fonda and Hoffmaster names. The Company was established in 1936 and has a global presence with facilities in Asia, Canada, Europe, Mexico, Panama and the United States. To learn more about the Company, visit www.solocup.com.

About Biodegradable Products Institute

BPI is a multi-stakeholder group, involving people and organizations that produce, use or recover biodegradable plastic products. It promotes the growth of biodegradable plastics through education, use of scientifically-based standards and cooperative efforts with organizations in Europe and Asia. To learn more, visit the BPI website at www.bpiworld.org.

Safe Harbor Statement

Matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "may," "intend," "expect" and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting the Company and its operations, markets, product and distributor performance, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently, and other factors detailed in reports filed by the Company.