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Tannins: A possible answer to microplastic pollution?

Envirotec Magazine

Scientists at UBC’s BioProducts Institute find that if you add tannins to a layer of wood dust, you can create a filter that traps virtually all microplastic particles present in water, according to recently reported research. When tested in mouse models, the process was proved to prevent the accumulation of microplastics in the organs.

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Graphene-based packaging presented as first truly biodegradeable and compostable alternative to plastic

Envirotec Magazine

UK biotech company Toraphene says it is preparing to unveil the world’s first truly biodegradable, compostable and commercially viable alternative to plastic packaging. It’s because they need specific manmade conditions to biodegrade, and many degrade into microplastics, which contaminate our oceans and food chain for centuries”.

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Bio-based ropes claim eco-friendly aquaculture benefits

Envirotec Magazine

However, the ropes used in their cultivation are made from conventional fossil-based (non-compostable) plastics, which can potentially contribute to the generation of plastic waste and marine litter and have a negative impact on the marine environment if not properly managed.

Plastics 264
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Industry first claimed for “fully recyclable crisp packet”

Envirotec Magazine

Furthermore, if unintentionally released into the natural environment, Hydropol – which is non-toxic and marine safe – will dissolve and subsequently biodegrade. It does not break down into harmful microplastics, so it still has a safe end-of-life even if it is not disposed of as intended.

Recycling 147
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Environmentally friendly leather wins European circular economy startup award

Envirotec Magazine

The firm’s winning idea is a gelatine-based alternative to conventional leather, which is made from low-value gelatine waste from the meat and leather industries, such as skin and bones. The textile is seemingly produced without the use of toxins and is “organic and biodegradable.”

Startups 178
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Study points to microplastics’ greater presence in faeces of IBD sufferers

Envirotec Magazine

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET, used in bottles and food containers, was one of the most common sources of microplastic identified in the study (image caption: Kevin Doncaster , CC BY 2.0 A potential link between microplastics and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been flagged up by a scientific study released in late December.

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Where there's hope for speeding up business action on plastics

GreenBiz

Much of industry continues to embrace "throwaway living," celebrated in this Life Magazine photograph in 1955. ">. Much of industry continues to embrace “throwaway living,” which was celebrated in this Life Magazine photograph in 1955. . In all this, she finds hope for systemic change toward a circular economy. Chief legal officers .

Plastics 326