The UK subsidiary of Albis (Hamburg / Germany; www.albis.com) has been appointed exclusive distributor in the UK and Ireland for the range of bioplastic polymers suitable for film extrusion and blow moulding that are manufactured by Cereplast (El Segundo, California / USA; www.cereplast.com). The range comprises “Cereplast Compostables” and “Cereplast Sustainables”.

Cereplast Compostables are produced from starch-based, gluten-free renewable resources such as corn, tapioca and potato, which are sourced primarily from the American Midwest. They are capable of replacing close to 100% of the petroleum-based constituents of fossil fuel-based plastics. The resins are biodegradable and compostable and meet the ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 standards for compostability. Applications include single-use disposables and packaging, including cups, straws, cutlery and bags.

Cereplast Sustainables are also bio-based but with significantly more of the resin content being derived from plant starches, which can replace up to 90% of the petroleum content. This makes them more cost-competitive with traditional petroleum-based polymers and less influenced by oil price volatility. The materials are suitable for durable applications and can be used in markets ranging from automotive and consumer electronics to medical packaging and toys.

Commenting on the distributorship appointment, which has taken immediate effect, Ian Mills, managing director of Albis UK (Knutsford, Cheshire), said; “Cereplast offers an excellent range of sustainable plastics which complements Albis’ extensive green portfolio perfectly.”