California-based bioplastics manufacturer Sway has unveiled a groundbreaking new technology that it hopes will facilitate the commercial-scale production of bioplastics from seaweed.
Representing an entirely new class of biopolymer plastics, Sway ‘s Thermoplastic Marine Algae (TPSea) plastic is a completely bio-based, home compostable, microplastic-free component made from a Ocean trees have the ability to regenerate, contribute to ecosystem structure and function, and support coastal communities.
Sway’s new technology is designed to connect seamlessly with most existing large-scale plastics manufacturing systems, enabling growth and impact. The packaging sector is the world’s largest generator of single-use plastic waste. Sway’s growing product portfolio made with TPSea includes flexible packaging applications such as poly bags, retail bags and food wraps for consumer brands, representing approximately 30% of total packaging Single-use plastic.
This launch comes alongside Sway’s successful $5 million seed round led by Third Nature Investments and included investments from The Helm, Alante Capital, BAM Ventures, Superorganism and aligned investors with other industries. The fund will be used to support the scaling of Sway’s product portfolio, in addition to driving the adoption of biomaterials by fashion, food and home goods brands such as J.Crew, Burton and other brands involved in the Tom Ford Plastics Innovation Award.
Sway’s seaweed materials have a variety of applications in the packaging industry, and aim to add ecological and social value along the way – opening up new, affordable pathways to reducing plastic pollution and expanding access to biodegradable materials. TPSea resin, film rolls and finished packaging are now available for adoption by packaging manufacturers and consumer brands.
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