Bioelements Group, a Chile founded bio-based packaging designer and developer, has been named Plastic reduction initiative of the year.

Its scientists have developed 30 proprietary formulations, based on biological raw materials such as starches and sugarcane, to design a plastic-alternative packaging material.

The product aims to reduce reliance on conventional plastic packaging materials, preventing microplastics from entering the environment.

Fungi and microorganisms allow the packaging alternative to biodegrade within 20 months. By design, the product can biodegrade in up to a multitude of four environments, including aerobically via home and/or industrial compost, anaerobically through sanitary landfills, and in marine environments. This promotes a low environmental footprint without disrupting industrial processes, its entry stated.

The product is suitable for use across retail, agribusiness, food, and personal care sectors.

In the past year, Bioelements Group reports its products have avoided 4.3 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions when compared to virgin or recycled conventional plastics.

Adding to its sustainability credentials, the business also uses renewable sources of energy for its product facilities