What is the Bpacks Project?
Bpacks has developed a composite material using its own innovative formula, crafted with standard plastic manufacturing equipment and pulp moulding technology. The company’s unique approach centers on bark — yep, bark! Lev Bolshakov, co-founder of Bpacks, points out that bark is already “natural packaging for trees,” which sparked the idea to explore it as a plastic alternative. This bark-based packaging is not only biodegradable and compostable but also made from 80% wood waste byproducts. The team is working on turning this material into pellets that can be used to create food trays, coffee cups, and containers for beauty products. It’s a fresh take on eco-friendly packaging, aiming to replace traditional plastics and glass containers, especially in industries like beauty that are actively seeking sustainable solutions.
Main Benefits of Bpacks’ Packaging
Here’s a quick rundown of the key benefits and facts about Bpacks’ innovative material:
- Made with 80% wood waste byproducts
- Biodegradable and compostable packaging
- High antibacterial index, which helps extend shelf life
- Extends shelf life of perishable items like meat and vegetables by up to seven days
- Potential to reduce food waste significantly
- Compatible with standard plastic manufacturing and pulp moulding technologies
- Currently rolling out products in over 300 stores across Southern Europe through a partnership with retailer Gomex
Production and Expansion Plans
Bpacks is gearing up for growth. The money raised during the pre-seed stage is earmarked for buying equipment for their production site in Belgrade and hiring more scientists to push product development further. The company’s research and development center in Belgrade houses five scientists who recently submitted Bpacks’ innovations to the World International Property Organization. Production will be based in Spain initially, with a focus on European markets. But the vision doesn’t stop there — Bpacks aims to expand commercial operations into North America by 2026. Ambitious? Absolutely. But it’s all part of their plan to build their own manufacturing facility and establish a solid supply chain, providing materials both to plastics manufacturers and directly to clients.
Partnership with Gomex and Market Impact
Bpacks has teamed up with Gomex, a retailer committed to sustainability, to roll out its products in more than 300 stores across Southern Europe. Gomex’s CEO, Dimitrije Stojanović, highlights that ESG principles and sustainability are central to the company’s mission. He’s proud that Gomex is pioneering the use of innovative, tree bark-based packaging, aiming to inspire more sustainable practices across the industry. According to Stojanović, this packaging solution benefits not just end users but also the company by reducing product write-offs, enhancing shelf life, and minimizing waste — all aligning perfectly with their ESG values.
Why Bark-Based Packaging Matters
The environmental urgency behind Bpacks’ innovation couldn’t be clearer. With global negotiations on a treaty to tackle plastic waste pollution recently ending without an agreement, the need for alternatives is more pressing than ever. Bark-based packaging offers a natural, eco-friendly solution that integrates seamlessly into mainstream markets without sacrificing quality or driving up costs. Mikhail Taver, advisor and board member at Bpacks, emphasizes that this development marks a significant step for retailers wanting to reduce their environmental footprint. Plus, the antibacterial properties of the material help keep products fresh longer, which could be a game-changer for reducing food waste.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water (by reducing plastic pollution)
- SDG 15: Life on Land (through sustainable use of forest byproducts)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Looking Ahead: The Future of Eco-Friendly Packaging
Bpacks isn’t alone in this race to replace plastic. Other startups are exploring alternatives using seaweed, mushrooms, and mycelium. But what sets Bpacks apart is its focus on turning a natural byproduct — bark — into a versatile, sustainable packaging material that can be produced with existing manufacturing tech. With plans to scale up production, expand markets, and keep innovating, Bpacks is setting a new standard for eco-friendly packaging solutions. It’s a promising glimpse into a future where sustainability and practicality go hand in hand, helping retailers, consumers, and the planet alike.
