Lummus Technology, a provider of process technologies and energy solutions, announced Wednesday it would partner with biotech company RWDC to cooperate on global PHA deployment initiatives.
The two companies said they had signed a Memorandum of Understanding as a first step toward a joint development to manufacture polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) through global licensing opportunities. The companies said Lummus’ expertise in process technology and RWDC’s expertise in PHA production would allow them to accelerate global availability and mass adoption of the natural alternative to synthetically produced petroleum-based plastics.
“We are excited to combine Lummus and RWDC’s collective expertise, experience and resources to commercialize PHAs, a sustainable and economic solution to help address global plastic waste,” Leon de Bruyn Lummus’ president and CEO, said. “Together, we can provide eco-friendly biodegradable plastics, while driving innovation and advancing the circular economy of our industry.”
Products and packaging made with PHA by RWDC are created using plant-based oils which can be organically recycled or composted in home and industrial composting facilities. The products will fully biodegrade in soil, fresh water and marine settings, which prevents plastics and microplastics from accumulating in the environment.
“Our focus is to make environmentally safe and highly functional biobased materials available globally,” RWDC CEO Dr. Daniel Carraway said. “Our partnership with Lummus is a significant step toward enabling PHA to assist our customers — and, therefore, consumers — in meeting the global challenge of plastics pollution.”