Sakata EMEA is one of the first seed companies in the world to choose polymers made from renewable natural raw materials.
Japan based Sakata EMEA markets uncoated and coated seeds. As of 1st April 2025 (as stock is gradually cleared), the film applied to coated seeds no longer contains microplastics: it is now 100 per cent biosourced and biodegradable.
Beginning in June 2025, the film applied to coated seeds sold by Sakata will no longer contain microplastics, as they will replace it with a coating that is 100 per cent bio-based and biodegradable.
Sakata EMEA has decided to anticipate European regulations (2) which will require seed manufacturers to stop using products containing microplastics. Sakata EMEA has carried out tests on several seeds since 2020, first in the laboratory and then on a large scale, guaranteeing its customers the same quality: – same bright light blue coating colour.
Sakata EMEA is one of the first seed companies in the world to choose polymers made from renewable natural raw materials. This is a choice that reflects the company’s commitment to respecting the environment and constant innovation to anticipate market requirements.
Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 restricts synthetic polymer microparticles on their own or intentionally added to mixtures with the aim of reducing the emission of microplastics in everyday products in order to protect the environment.
The EU considers synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 mm that are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation to be microplastics. These types of particles are present in many products such as:
- glitter,
- facial scrubs and other types of cosmetics,
- detergents
- waxes, polishes and air fresheners,
- certain fertilisers, plant protection products and seeds treated with them, biocides,
- other agricultural and horticultural products other than those listed above
- certain medical devices covered by Regulation (EU) 2017/745
- granular infill for use in synthetic sports surfaces (such as rubber substrate for artificial turf sports surfaces).