What is the Biotic Project?
Biotic envisions a world where plastic is no longer a concern. The project is all about commodifying bio-based and biodegradable materials to offer a circular economy solution to the plastic problem. Their scalable, bio-based, biodegradable polymers act as a ‘drop-in’ replacement for conventional plastics. What’s cool is that Biotic’s technology uses a diverse range of feedstocks — from naturally grown sea algae to agricultural waste — to create an optimal plastic alternative material with tons of applications. It’s a fresh take on tackling plastic pollution by turning natural resources into something useful and eco-friendly.
Main Benefits of Biotic’s Approach
Here’s why Biotic’s solution stands out:
- Out of 400 million tons of plastic waste produced annually, only 9% is recycled — the rest sticks around for hundreds of years.
- Microplastics are everywhere — oceans, rivers, landfills, even in rainwater and marine life habitats.
- Studies show humans consume about five grams of plastic every week — that’s like a spoonful!
- Biotic’s PHBV polymers are made from macroalgae and agricultural waste, fitting a wide range of applications.
- The polymers fully biodegrade into natural compounds with no toxic residue.
- The production process uses no synthetic chemicals and aims for zero waste.
- Biotic’s polymers seamlessly integrate into existing production lines — no need to overhaul factories.
The Plastic Crisis We’re Facing
The plastic pollution crisis is real and affects every living thing on Earth. With only a tiny fraction of plastic waste being recycled, the majority just lingers in the environment, breaking down into microplastics that infiltrate ecosystems and food chains. It’s not just an eyesore — it’s a health hazard. The fact that microplastics have been found in mothers’ breast milk is a wake-up call. This crisis demands innovative solutions that go beyond recycling and tackle the root of the problem.
How Biotic’s PHBV Polymers Work
Biotic’s PHBV polymers are a game-changer. They’re made from a mix of feedstocks like macroalgae and agricultural waste, which means they don’t compete with food crops or require arable land. The production process uses seawater and green extraction techniques — no treated water needed. This approach helps Biotic move towards price parity with fossil-based plastics, making it a viable alternative for manufacturers. Plus, these polymers fully biodegrade in any environment, leaving no toxic residue behind.
Biotic’s Circular Economy Model
At the heart of Biotic’s mission is a circular economy approach. They derive high-value plastics from renewable feedstocks while keeping waste production low. The process is designed to be scalable and sustainable, aiming for zero waste. By turning biomass into biodegradable polymers, Biotic closes the loop on plastic production and disposal. It’s about creating materials that don’t just replace plastics but also fit seamlessly into existing production lines and break down naturally after use.
Biotic’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Support and Recognition
Biotic’s innovative work has attracted support from a range of prestigious organizations, including Cambridge Agritech, EIT Food, FoodTech 500, Mass Challenge, Norfolk Green Ventures, Plug and Play, Respond, Rockstart, TBP, Ten Nine, TYLAP, and UM6PV. This backing not only validates their technology but also helps accelerate the transition to a plastic-free future. With such a strong network, Biotic is well-positioned to make a real dent in the global plastic crisis.
