Getting our materials tested

We are currently in the process of having our biodegradable materials tested; a local and comprehensive analysis of the performance of our packaging. Although the additive has been tested previously, our discussion with the CSIR has prompted us to pursue independent laboratory testing of our own manufactured material. This means that we will provide several samples to be tested under various types of environmental conditions, to verify our claims within the market. This would take place under accelerated landfill conditions, a marine environment, as well as soil.

The tests are also divided into three stages: fragmentation, biodegradation, and toxicity. This process will confirm if the material breaks down in a certain timeframe, completely degrades, and that the end result is not harmful to the environment. It is paramount that the materials meet international standards and complies with market regulations.

Biodegradable regulations in South Africa

It seems that there aren’t any formal laws (i.e., hard laws) regarding biodegradable and compostable materials in South Africa. This conclusion is based on information received from local government and interest groups, as well as research papers. Most notably the 2020 position paper titled Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging: a review of the South African landscape, raises key points in terms of biodegradable and compostable packaging (The Moss Group, 2020, p. 3-4).

• Currently the restriction of separation, collection and processing infrastructures do not help direct post-consumer management of plastic packaging solutions (para. 4).
• Presently, there is a shortfall for legislation concerning particularly to biodegradable and compostable materials in South Africa, with SANS 1728:2019 identification requirement of degradable plastic marking as the exclusion (para. 5).
• The South African public do not have proper knowledge and understanding of what biodegradability and compostability means (para. 6).
• The majority of the raw materials i.e., resins, and some finished products are imported, whereby the South African Economy is being restricted (para. 7).

Phasing out unnecessary products

Since the above paper was released, there have been two significant developments that have attempted to curb plastic waste in South Africa: SA Plastics Pact and the EPR Levy. Although we have mentioned these both before, it is worth noting that the Plastics Pact is in the process of phasing out 12 products that are regarded as problematic and unnecessary. The collaboration between the plastic industry, business, and government has identified products such as single-use cutlery, thin-barrier fruit bags, as well as products manufactured with oxo-degradable additives.

Although our additive is a much newer and improved technology – and is currently an accepted biodegradable material – we continue to review the potential impact and relevance of our biodegradable material in the market. By undergoing testing that complies with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), we ensure that our claims are backed by rigid scientific processes. Additionally, this experience will allow us to continue learning and to be responsible custodians of the biodegradable materials industry.

Switching to biodegradable packaging solutions allows you to play your part in helping the environment. If you think there is potential for converting your packaging requirements to a biodegradable option, then get in touch with us to explore the solutions together.  

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According to National Geographic about 80% of that pollution and trash originates from land sources – “littering, storm winds, and poor waste management”. This illustrates that our biggest problem is not necessarily the existence of plastic but rather how to manage it responsibly after we have disposed of it. What makes this even more complicated is how easy plastic is to produce, as well as its durability and barrier properties. A product that has become such an integral part of our ecosystem but can have such a detrimental impact if not managed effectively. It is a tragic issue to face as humanity attempts to balance the demands of a growing population with sufficient waste management infrastructure and services. For lack of a better word, it’s unsustainable.

Possible solutions

However, it is not all doom and gloom. In our previous theme on the EPR levy, we noted a great push for investment in the recycling industry that would help address these issues. By increasing the flow of recyclable products into the recycling stream, we can keep the value of these materials in circulation and reduce unnecessary landfill dumping. Other products, such as refuse bags, could be redesigned as they are certainly destined for landfill and no innovative end-of-life management exist. There is a case to argue that they should be converted to biodegradable variants – certified according to international standards. Therefore, our waste management becomes dynamic: diverting as much as possible from landfills but also creating ways in which to reduce landfill mass.

That simple right? Not just yet

One should also consider the complex constructions; the multi-layer plastics that aren’t currently or readily recyclable (e.g., resin code #7). These could be co-extruded materials like vacuum bags or thermoforming film, that are based on a polyethylene (PE) and nylon (PA) blend. While it has been long understood that these materials are not recyclable, new evidence has come to light that suggests the contrary. BASF, a multinational chemical manufacturer, conducted a study earlier this year where they attempted to investigate the potential to recycle a PE/PA mixture. The paper titled ‘Coextruded PE/PA multilayer films are recyclable!’ revealed that certain requirements would need to be met (e.g., the ratio of the blend as well as additives) but that this combination is ultimately recyclable.

However, in saying that, both the technology and infrastructure need to be available to process the material effectively. This isn’t possible within South Africa according to several sources. The same could be said for bioplastics, both biodegradable and non-biodegradable. Both of which require specific end-of-life conditions for effective waste management. Also, “despite numerous academic research efforts to promote the application of biodegradable polymers in packaging, there are few bio-based/biodegradable polymers in the market that can meet the high demand for food packaging within modern society”. (Wu, Misra, and Mohanty, 2: 2021).

Taking the above into consideration, Sun Plastics is continuously looking at ways in which we can add value. Whether this is providing high-quality barrier film and biodegradable variants according to the most effective market segments, or through the research and information supplied through our marketing programme. We want to be up to date with what’s happening in the market, and we want our customers to be well-informed.

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Although Sun Plastics has the capabilities to produce a range of flexible plastic products, we focus on manufacturing high-quality barrier films for several applications such as food and medical products. Therefore, to help one navigate EPR, Sun Plastics have noted a few points that we hope will assist both the consumer as well as the product manufacturer. Having a better grasp of the packaging in use can have a positive influence on economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Here are 3 points to consider:

• 1. Know your material
  

  Plastic packaging comes in various shapes, forms, and sizes; some are easily recyclable while others are not. The number on the packing (1-7) is the resin code, which helps consumers assess the construction and how the waste is to be disposed of (i.e., either in your recycling bag or in your refuse bag destined for landfill). Plastics SA reports that numbers 1-6 are currently recycled in South Africa, but most recycling centres are only equipped to process #1, #2, #4, #5, #6 according to the South African Plastics Recycling Organisation (SAPRO). Luckily, food manufacturers/retail brands such as Woolworths are making it easier for their customers, by correctly labelling the various components of their packaging with “widely recycled in SA” or “not currently recycled”. While that is helpful in terms of waste management, it is up to us as packaging manufacturers to constantly explore how we can lead the market in product innovation and sustainable development.

• 2. Know your application
  

  Due to our production of specialized barrier films, Sun Plastics currently focuses on coextruded and laminated materials – resin code #7. These products are necessary as they are puncture-resistant, have increased barrier properties against moisture and air, and are also converted into various ways for our customers’ application requirements. This could be rolls for FFS (form, fill, and seal) and thermoforming (I.e., meat and cheese) systems, or even in various sized pouches/bags. All these constructions can be tweaked and printed to specific requirements however, it is important to know what these requirements are. For example, our R&D has shown us that there are industries that may rely heavily on EVOH – which is a high barrier resin – even though they only require a much shorter shelf-life. The consequence of this could be an increased cost, the reliance on a rare material, or even the increase of product weight due to the construction. One should take all of these things into consideration as an increase in weight would mean more plastic in use and a higher levy.

• 3. Know your thickness requirements

  Although quite similar to the previous point, it would also be important to ensure that you are using the right micron/thickness material. By “right” we mean using a material that offers all the barrier properties and durability that you require, but that has the right thickness to achieve this. Sun Plastics can assist; taking your current spec and application, we can conduct the relevant trials to ensure that your product is suitably packaged and that you aren’t paying more than you should. For example, a medium sized company using an additional 20 micron in one variant could see an additional cost of R60 000 per year.

Having a better grasp of the packaging in use can have a positive influence on economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Get in touch with Sun Plastics for innovative, and advanced barrier flexible packaging.

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