Algreen: the 1st seaweed based laminated packaging sustainably designed for people and planet

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Plastic labels generate 60,000 metric tons of such packaging wastes containing 17,000 metric tons of aluminum used in Great Britain in 2015\. They are typically made of fossil-fuel-derived virgin plastics, adhesives, contaminants and inks. Some laminated packaging formats are estimated to be growing by between 10% and 15% per year (WRAP, 2011). However, they are notoriously difficult to recycle due to a complex mix of layers, coatings, and contaminants. According to the United Nations' sustainable goals (World Without Waste) by 2030, all materials used will be sustainable, the aim being to fully introduce packaging that does not require any new fossil fuels (Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns).Our vision is to reduce plastic waste from laminated packaging entering the environment using our seaweed-based laminated packaging to support companies providing seaweed-dependent products, according to planet-centred design. Algreen designs fully biobased laminated packaging that mimics the performance/aesthetic of plastic laminated packaging. Biodegradables were highlighted as a critical component in developing more circular systems and supply chains by Bioplastics Europe. Algreen aims to support the UN's sustainable development goals, including clean water and sanitation, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, and partnership for the goals.The most effective way to reduce plastic waste from packaging is to use alternative biobased materials that are less destructive. Our solution takes advantage of world-class advancements in biochemistry, creating a tangible, scalable alternative to plastic laminated packaging. It aligns with new government priorities for Clean Growth, Green Recovery and provides planted-centred design to align with our customers' seaweed products portfolios.This project will build on 6-month planet-centred design and innovation on Algreen, we will undertake:• People&planet-centred designed laminated packaging to align with our customers' seaweed-based product portfolios.• In-lab testing to assess performance and durability like-for-like to plastic, environmental performance and pressure under manufacturing processes.• Manufacturability assessment to optimise formulas to ensure Algreen can meet manufacturing requirements.• Build a GTM strategy and carry out consultations with key stakeholders e.g manufacturers/brands that have signed the Plastics Pact such as Unilever, CocaCola and BPF to inform laminated packaging development. We will seek advice from FSA regarding food safety regulations on flexibles and films.• Validate our environmental claims with an LCA.