Gaia Biomaterials, a Swedish bioplastics company, has announced the development of a new compostable drinking straw material designed to address longstanding consumer concerns. The innovative material, derived from the company’s limestone-based Biodolomer, promises stability, rigidity, and heat resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of beverages, including hot drinks like Irish Coffee and hot chocolate.
Certified compostable by BPI in the USA and European certification bodies, the new material aims to eliminate microplastics, a significant environmental concern. Extensive testing with drinking straw manufacturers in Europe and the USA has yielded promising results, paving the way for full-scale production scheduled to commence in late May. Initial feedback indicates that the material performs well in production machines, meeting anticipated performance standards.
Gaia Biomaterials CEO, Peter Stenström, highlighted the significance of this development: “Drinking straws have been an issue for many. According to many consumers, the degradable alternatives have simply not been good enough. But soon you’ll be able to use straws again, with a clean conscience and without a distinct aftertaste of paper.”
The company’s commitment to sustainability and functionality underscores its efforts to provide viable alternatives in the single-use plastics market.