Scientists at Monash University have developed a way to turn sugar from food waste into biodegradable plastic films, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based packaging.
The innovation uses naturally occurring bacteria (Cupriavidus necator and Pseudomonas putida) to convert food waste into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a compostable material that can be shaped into thin, flexible films similar to conventional plastics.
The films could be used in food packaging, agricultural wraps, and medical materials, providing a renewable option for single-use applications.
“This research demonstrates how food waste can be transformed into sustainable, compostable ultrathin films with tunable properties,” said Edward Attenborough, lead researcher at Monash University.
“The versatility of PHAs means we can reimagine materials we rely on every day without the environmental cost of conventional plastics.”
By adjusting the bacterial process, the team was able to produce films with varying levels of flexibility, strength, and durability, allowing them to mimic the performance of traditional plastics while remaining fully compostable.
The research team is now collaborating with industry partners, including Enzide and Great Wrap, to explore commercial applications, such as biodegradable food packaging and agricultural products.
“By tailoring these natural plastics for different uses, we’re opening the door to sustainable alternatives in packaging – especially where they can be composted along with food or agricultural waste,” Attenborough added.
