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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.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
China Green Material Technologies, Inc. Announces Record Full Year 2009 Results
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Liquid Planet First on the Market to Release Fully Biodegradable Tea Packaging
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
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.
Irish startup turns waste plastic into biodegradable products
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.
Click here to read the full article
Friday, December 18, 2009
Ithaca company turning carbon dioxide into plastic
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
Thursday, December 17, 2009
S'pore businesses eye green SIM, smartcards
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.
Click here to read the full article
Project to Promote Use of Biodegradable Bags Launched
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
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Alternative packaging from biodegradable farm waste
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."
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Better Wipes for a Better World! Introducing Gro Baby(TM) Bio Wipes - All Natural and Compostable Baby Wipes, Made from 100% Renewable Resources
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
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.
Click here to read the full article
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Bioamber and Sinoven Partner for Biobased Succinic Acid
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".
Click here to read the full article
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Biopack Announces Initial Sales of New Water Resistant Trays
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.
Click here to read the full article
Monday, November 23, 2009
KAIST/LG Chem Improve Bio-Plastics Process
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
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.
Click here to read the full article
Sunday, November 22, 2009
BASF's biodegradable plastic: from paper cups to packaging
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.
Click here to read the full article
Sunday, August 9, 2009
PrimeWare Introduces New Product to Industry!
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
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.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Heritage BioTuf® Compostable Bags
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
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Foodservice packaging leaders Wilkinson Industries and Dispoz-o Products announce merger
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.
Monday, August 7, 2006
Cereplast, Inc., MeadWestvaco Corp. and Solo Cup Company Announce Successful Development of Degradable Paper Coating
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.
