A recent awards event highlighted some of the most successful and innovative solutions in the realm of bio-based materials. The Bio-based and Biodegradable Industries Association’s (BBIA) Demeter Awards and Innovation Showcase are the only UK awards dedicated to recognising excellence in the bio-based sector.
Bio-Based Materials and Their Role in the Bioeconomy
The BBIA exists to champion the industrial bioeconomy to accelerate the development and adoption of bio-based materials and products through advocacy, collaboration, and education. Its vision is for a more sustainable future, where the UK is a global leader in developing, manufacturing, using and exporting bio-based and biodegradable solutions.
Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation Lord Vallance opened the event, paying tribute to the importance of the bioeconomy to the UK’s industrial strategy and the UK’s net zero ambitions. He said: “There is a unique opportunity to have the design, development and manufacture of new products and materials secured through a thriving bioeconomy. We can transition away from petrochemicals and become an engine for net zero, and set an example for the rest of the world to create well-paid and meaningful jobs.”
“We’re committed to driving forward a more environmentally friendly economy, as it is a necessity for a more sustainable future. We will move from using the carbon below ground to harnessing the abundance of carbon above.”
Bio-Based Materials Transforming the Future of Industry
Former Science Minister George Freeman MP gave a keynote speech, saying: “It’s great to see the bioeconomy get the traction it deserves. This isn’t just an overlooked academic sector that needs to speak more loudly for research funding; it is an industry ready to solve some of the big planetary and societal challenges that we face in this country. The government has set out a massive ambition for an industrial strategy that implicitly prioritises R&D. In this new political landscape, we have an opportunity to make this the industry of tomorrow.”
Former Secretary of State for the Environment Lord Deben closed the event, presenting the awards for Product Innovation, Start-Up of the Year and Collaboration and telling delegates, “What you do is not just a job. It’s actually helping the world to adapt to and mitigate climate change, which we have been stupid enough to allow to happen.”
Product Innovation in Bio-Based Materials
Holiferm won the Product Innovation Award, for developing a process for the sustainable manufacture of biosurfactants, which eliminate the need for harmful petrochemicals. This category was intended to recognise companies or researchers who have developed and commercialised innovative bio-based materials that offer significant advantages over traditional fossil-based incumbents. Holiferm accelerates the transition to a biosurfactant-based economy by using renewable materials to manufacture non-toxic ingredients for industrial and consumer products. Our cutting-edge collaborative approach allows us to push technical boundaries towards a circular bioeconomy.
Start-Up Innovation in Bio-Based Materials
Carbon Cell won the Start-Up of the Year, for its mission to eliminate the need for polystyrene with its non-toxic, compostable foam material made from carbon-negative biochar and natural binders. Because it's made with biochar, Carbon Cell is carbon-negative. This means that it removes more CO2 from the atmosphere than it requires to make. Carbon Cell boasts a competitive thermal conductivity and is three times stronger than EPS and other bio-based alternatives. It also performs well under fire and has a comparable sound insulation to EPS foam.
Collaboration for Sustainable Bio-Based Solutions
The 2M Group of Companies won the Collaboration Award for its collaboration with Xampla that has brought the Morro Coating, a world-first plastic-free solution, from concept to large-scale production. Produced from plants, Morro offers a sustainable drop-in alternative to plastic, that fully biodegrades at the end of its life. The brand of natural materials will enable 2M to expand its portfolio of sustainable alternatives for manufacturing and distribution directly to brands, eliminating plastics from the supply chain.
Morro Coating is a plant-based replacement for traditional petroleum-based coatings. Fully biodegradable and home compostable, it is safe for food contact and offers high strength, grease, and oxygen barrier properties. Morro materials are made from natural polymers and are not chemically modified, meaning they are exempt from the existing European single-use plastic directive.
Supporting Bio-Based Material Companies for a Sustainable Future
The winners will receive a 12-month co-working space membership in Manchester’s Renold Innovation Hub. They will also receive IP support from Potter Clarkson, grant funding application support from PNO Consultant, and Life Cycle Assessment advice from Oakdene Hollins, valued at a combined total of over £25,000.
Jen Vanderhoven, Chief Operating Officer of the BBIA said: “As global temperatures keep rising, the drive towards a more circular economy is not an option, it is an obligation. It is crucial to acknowledge the businesses that are developing bio-based materials and products, as they play a key role in driving innovative solutions for the future. Congratulations to the winners for their outstanding contributions to the bioeconomy, and we want to thank the prominent politicians who are giving us their backing. We now need to see government policy follow with clear backing bio-based products that are part of the journey to net zero.”
Richard Lock, Managing Director of Holiferm, winner of the Product Innovation Award, said: “We are honoured to accept this award. From our beginnings in the University of Manchester labs, we’ve been driven by a mission to revolutionise the petrochemical market. Our naturally produced biosurfactants not only meet consumer expectations but do so while safeguarding our planet. This is just the beginning of a transformative journey!”
Elizabeth Lee, CEO and Co-founder of Carbon Cell, winner of the Start-up of the Year, said: “We are so pleased to accept this award in the company of such innovative and visionary start-ups. We will continue helping businesses in packaging, the built environment, and beyond replace polluting polystyrene for good.”
James Nelson, Business Director of 2M Group of Companies, winner of the Collaboration Award, said: “We’re delighted to accept this award that recognises the huge progress we have made in scaling Morro™ Coating in such a short period of time. It is a huge tribute both to Xampla’s technology and their collaborative spirit which enables partnerships like this to bring the product to scale at speed.”
Conclusion: The Growing Role of Bio-Based Materials in a Sustainable Future
As the world continues to face environmental challenges, the development and adoption of bio-based materials are essential to driving the transition towards a more sustainable, circular economy. By focusing on innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions, these industries are not only reducing their reliance on petrochemicals but are also leading the charge in sustainable practices for the future.
