In 2019, 353 million tonnes (Mt) of plastic waste were generated globally, from which 235 Mt came from products with a lifespan under five years. Packaging was the greatest source of plastic waste, with around 141 Mt, from which about 47 Mt leaked from collection systems and polluted the environment.
Plastic foams are one of the most widely used packaging materials for delivering fragile and perishable products due to their excellent properties (e.g. low-density, low thermal conductivity, excellent cushioning properties and low cost). However, they are mainly made from fossil fuel-derived materials that, although recyclable in principle, recycling is not their usual end-of-life option due to the numerous challenges in our current waste management system.
Algae (seaweed), as a renewable resource, presents an ideal solution offering a pathway to reduce reliance on fossil fuels without competing with food production for land and water resources. Developing compostable foams from algae addresses the environmental impact of plastic pollution and supports sustainable production and consumption patterns, making it a vital step towards a greener, more sustainable future.
CORAL
CORAL is a UKRI-funded Marie Curie Fellowship Project that aims to develop a family of algae-based and compostable foams as a sustainable alternative for plastic packaging and investigate their applicability and acceptability within the waste management system to identify strategies for their successful implementation. To reach this aim, the project focuses on the following objectives:
- To implement algae-based feedstocks to produce hydrogels and films as precursors to manufacture solid foams. Algae presents a multitude of advantages. It grows rapidly, does not compete for arable land or freshwater resources and is cultivated in various environments, including saline and wastewater.
- To develop cost-effective and scalable foam production methods.
- To obtain tailored formulations and processes to produce compostable and biobased alternatives to conventional plastic foams.
- To integrate eco-design in the development of the hydrogels and biofoams with results from LCA, meeting the ‘OK Compost Home’ certification scheme and industrial-composting according to the EU standard for compostable and biodegradable packaging – EN 13432:2000.
- To explore attitudes towards the biofoams developed and bioplastics in general from a broad stakeholder perspective to understand the challenges associated with their implementation and end-of-life and propose actions to influence policy, labelling and community engagement.
The project’s ultimate goal is to mitigate the environmental impact of packaging waste by offering a sustainable alternative that is biobased and compostable. CORAL findings can be applied to the packaging industry, waste management systems, policy-making and consumer education. Ultimately, CORAL aims to positively contribute to a circular economy by promoting more sustainable and responsible practices in the production, handling and disposal of packaging materials.
PlantSea
In a significant step for eco-friendly packaging solutions, PlantSea, a Welsh startup, has been awarded On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) certification for its seaweed-based packaging. OPRL said PlantSea is the “first company to use the OPRL ‘Recycle’ label” for such a material, highlighting its potential to replace traditional paper and card in various applications such as stationery, boxes, and bags. The packaging is manufactured from a blend of seaweed-derived fibres with recycled and virgin paper pulp. This combination has been tested under the CEPI v2 protocol, confirming its compatibility with standard paper mill recycling processes.
“It is always exciting to see innovation and the successful application of novel materials in packaging,” commented Alice Harlock, director of Technical and Member Services at OPRL. “As businesses look to adapt or replace current packaging types to meet sustainability goals or legislation, OPRL is keen to support them with labelling that helps consumers make the right choices around recycling.”
“It is easy to claim that products are fully recyclable, but independent assessment brings a credibility that is especially valuable for a startup and innovation business. It helps us to demonstrate our commitment to honesty and to giving consumers a choice.”
The use of seaweed in PlantSea’s packaging adds another layer of sustainability. The seaweed is a byproduct sourced from the UK’s aquaculture industry, contributing to the health of aquatic life and marine conservation efforts. This development extends beyond paper and card. PlantSea is exploring the potential of seaweed in other applications, including water-soluble films and agricultural mulch. OPRL Ltd is the entity behind the UK-wide OPRL scheme, a programme utilised by more than 750 member companies and charities.
Seaweed market growing
The global seaweed packaging market size was valued at USD 491.2 million in 2022 and is expected to surpass around USD 952.76 million by 2032, progressing at a CAGR of 6.9% between 2023 and 2032. Seaweed extracts encompass diverse compounds derived from red, brown, and green algae. Seaweed is a significant mineral source known for its capacity to reduce cholesterol levels, suppress appetite, aid in wound healing, and benefit individuals with heart conditions. Furthermore, seaweed is utilised in the production of biofuels, including bio-butanol, serving as an alternative to conventional diesel fuel.
The seaweed packaging market has emerged as a dynamic and promising sector within the global packaging industry. Characterised by its eco-friendly and sustainable attributes, seaweed-based packaging has garnered significant attention from businesses, consumers, and environmental advocates alike. This market segment has witnessed steady growth in recent years, propelled by increasing awareness of environmental issues, stringent regulations governing single-use plastics, and a growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions across various industries.
One of the key driving factors behind the growth of the seaweed packaging market is the pressing need for eco-conscious alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastics. As a renewable marine resource, seaweed offers a viable and abundant raw material for packaging applications. This has resulted in a surge of interest from manufacturers seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and align with green initiatives. As a result, various industries, including food and beverage, cosmetics, and personal care, are increasingly adopting seaweed-based packaging solutions.
In addition to its sustainable attributes, seaweed-based packaging offers several advantages over conventional plastics. It is biodegradable, meaning it naturally breaks down without leaving harmful residues, mitigating the long-lasting environmental impact associated with traditional plastics. Furthermore, seaweed packaging is also edible, providing a unique value proposition for single-use items like cutlery and condiment packets. This innovation aligns with the broader trend of reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices.
A notable trend is the diversification of product offerings within the seaweed packaging market. Initially confined to niche segments, seaweed-based packaging has evolved to encompass a broader range of applications. Beyond the food and beverage industry, which initially led to the adoption of seaweed packaging, there is a growing presence in sectors like cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. The versatility and adaptability of seaweed drive this diversification as a packaging material, coupled with the recognition of its benefits across various industries.
Furthermore, technological advancements in seaweed processing and packaging techniques are driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness in production. Innovations in extraction methods, refining processes, and packaging design are streamlining operations and enhancing the overall quality of seaweed-based packaging solutions. These advancements are pivotal in addressing scalability concerns and making seaweed packaging more accessible to a wider range of industries and businesses.
The market also has a growing consumer appetite for transparency and traceability in packaging materials. Consumers are increasingly interested in understanding the origins and production processes of the products they purchase. With its natural and sustainable attributes, seaweed-based packaging aligns with this trend, providing a compelling narrative for businesses looking to connect with environmentally conscious consumers.
The surge in popularity of seaweed-based packaging solutions can be attributed to a confluence of factors. Government initiatives and favourable policies supporting edible packaging solutions have played a pivotal role. Additionally, advancements in packaging technologies have further propelled this trend. Moreover, the emergence of new sources for edible packaging materials, mainly from seaweed, has significantly bolstered the industry.
This growth is also facilitated by a well-established foundation of raw materials, particularly from plant-based sources, providing a stable supply chain for production. This convergence of regulatory support, technological progress, and abundant raw material availability positions seaweed-based packaging solutions as a prominent player in the sustainable packaging industry, aligning with the prevailing market demand for eco-friendly alternatives. This trend reflects a positive shift towards environmentally responsible practices and presents lucrative opportunities for businesses operating within the packaging sector.
Embracing and investing in these innovative solutions can lead to enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future, meeting the evolving expectations of consumers and stakeholders alike.
Europe has emerged as a pioneering force in the seaweed packaging market for several compelling reasons. As of 2022, the region secured a substantial market share of 37.8%. This dominant position can be attributed to many factors, including a strong commitment to sustainability, robust regulatory frameworks, and a growing consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging solutions. European businesses have shown remarkable foresight in recognising the potential of seaweed-based packaging, aligning their strategies with the global shift towards more sustainable practices. This early adoption has established Europe as a key player in the market and paved the way for continued growth and innovation in the industry.
The proactive approach of European companies in embracing seaweed-based packaging has not only garnered positive attention from environmentally-conscious consumers but has also positioned the region as a leading hub for sustainable packaging solutions on the global stage.
In the European market, several varieties of seaweed find widespread application in a diverse range of food products. Over the past few decades, seaweed-based offerings have witnessed a surge in popularity, primarily attributed to their associated health advantages. Notably, regions like Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Norway have upheld the tradition of utilising seaweed as a culinary staple for centuries. This practice persists, as seaweed remains an integral component of the local gastronomy. It features prominently in dishes, including seaweed salads, soups, and stews, and serves as a favoured seasoning for fish and meat preparations.
While in specific European locales, seaweed remains less prevalent as a dietary component, there has been a notable recent inclination towards integrating it into the European diet. This shift is driven by recognising seaweed’s nutritional merits and potential as a sustainable food source. Seaweed boasts a rich content of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iodine, calcium, and iron, and is also a viable source of protein.
This nutritional profile positions seaweed as a promising addition to the European food landscape, aligning with the growing consumer emphasis on health-conscious and environmentally sustainable dietary choices. This trend signifies a dynamic evolution in culinary preferences. It presents significant opportunities for businesses and innovators in the food industry to capitalise on the burgeoning demand for seaweed-based products across Europe.
Seaweed has garnered a reputation among consumers as a healthful and nourishing dietary choice, recognised for its safety, freshness, substantial protein and iodine content, and low-calorie profile. Additionally, the presence of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibres has further propelled its appeal in the eyes of consumers. Key industry players strategically focus on inventive food offerings tailored to diverse demographics. The elevated levels of antioxidants, micronutrients, and fibre within seaweed are pivotal drivers behind its strong market demand.
Sustainability and eco-consciousness have emerged as a significant competitive advantage. Companies that demonstrate a clear commitment to environmental stewardship and incorporate sustainable practices into their operations are gaining favour among environmentally-conscious consumers and businesses. These companies are meeting regulatory requirements and proactively setting new standards for sustainability, establishing a competitive advantage rooted in responsible business practices.
