Tableware made from sugar cane waste

Problem statement

Agricultural waste from the sugar industry represents an environmental hazard due to its easy combustion and degradation time, as only ~10% is reused.

Executive summary

The demand and interest for sustainable food packaging and disposable tableware is growing exponentially, requiring significant solutions. For these requirements, Pacovis produces biologically degradable materials (Naturesse line), reducing CO2 emissions and waste generation.

Technology description

The first step is the collection and drying of the sugar cane bagasse. It is then compressed and pressed to obtain a syrup with a high fibre content, which is compacted into a final paste by the addition of water and natural binding agents. The final step is processing and pressing in moulds. Alternatively, the company has also developed more complex processes where sugar cane starch is used for the production of PLA - Poly Lactic Acid, which is also used to produce kitchenware. The products of the Naturesse range are EN 13432 certified and are therefore food safe, taste neutral, heat and water resistant. The same company works with waste from other origins within the same line: palm leaf, bamboo and cellulose/wood.

Market deployment considerations

Requires industrial technology e.g. moulding and extrusion equipment

Environmental considerations

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