Fortum develops biodegradable plastic from CO2 emissions

Finnish energy company Fortum has successfully produced biodegradable plastic from carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from waste incineration, the company said Tuesday, reported Xinhua.

This marks the first successful production of biodegradable plastic entirely from CO2 emissions, reducing reliance on fossil-based materials and fostering circular economy opportunities, it said.

CO2-based plastic can be recycled like conventional plastics, helping close the carbon loop. If released into nature, it biodegrades without leaving harmful microplastics, the company said.

This innovation has potential applications in food and cosmetics packaging, as well as in sectors like toys and electronics, it said.

The "plastics born from CO2" brand will debut in Europe in November 2024, with industrial production possibly starting by the end of the decade, it added.