Ottawa funding 2 projects to create compostable bioplastics

The federal government is handing out $300,000 to two small businesses for projects that will see the creation of compostable bioplastics made from forest-based residue.

The investment is the first phase of a Bioplastics Challenge, a collaboration between Natural Resources Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The challenge will provide up to $1 million for recipients to develop a working prototype of their bioplastic, which must achieve similar biodegration during composting to other known composting materials.

The $300,000 first-phase funding is being split between Quebec City-based Bosk Bioproducts Inc., and Vancouver’s GCUP — Technology Corp.

Bosk Bioproducts is developing an inexpensive bioplastic made from paper mill sludge and wood fibre residue that is compatible with plastic manufacturers’ existing equipment. (Read about Bosk Bioproducts’ process and products.)

GCUP — Technology is developing an entirely plant-based, compostable single-use coffee pod from bioplastic and wood fibre.

“This Bioplastics Challenge is one great example of the transformation that is underway in Canada’s forest sector,” Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources Amarjeet Sohi said in a news release. “The bioeconomy is developing new products, adopting greener business models and making the best use of our resources. Our government is proud to see Canadian small businesses at the forefront of finding solutions to environmental challenges that affect Canada and our planet as a whole.”