PHA-based solutions challenged by regulatory inertia
As Australia pushes forward with its single-use plastic bans, a new challenge emerges: how to replace these banned materials with truly compostable, scalable alternatives. Despite promising breakthroughs, such as PHA-based products developed by EcoPHA and Terra Sol, legislation still doesn’t fully recognise the role of PHA in the transition toward sustainable materials.
Terra Sol & EcoPHA: a partnership pushing boundaries
In response to the growing demand for certified, home-compostable and marine-biodegradable alternatives, Terra Sol and EcoPHA have developed a range of cups, lids, straws and cutlery made entirely in Australia. Unlike most ‘eco’ alternatives, their products are based on PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) — a bioplastic that degrades naturally in soil and marine environments.
The barrier? Australian law doesn’t yet include PHA as a recognised alternative in the current ban. This legal gap not only holds back local innovation but also risks replacing harmful plastics with greenwashed materials that perform poorly and fail to biodegrade as promised.
A game-changing feedstock: pongamia oil
EcoPHA’s innovation goes beyond materials. By sourcing PHA from pongamia oil, a non-edible, regenerative crop native to Australia and parts of Asia, they’ve developed a process that’s more sustainable and less resource-intensive. According to EcoPHA, this reduces production costs by up to 51% compared to palm oil-based PHA and qualifies for carbon credits thanks to the regenerative nature of pongamia trees.
This cost-effective, food-safe and scalable solution positions PHB as one of the most promising bioplastics for packaging, food service and industrial applications.
Why Australia must act now
The partnership’s efforts signal that Australia already has the technology, manufacturing capability and certified solutions needed to meet its environmental goals. However, policy must now catch up. Recognising PHA in current legislation would help future-proof the industry, create local jobs, and deliver on the promise of truly sustainable materials.
The timing is critical. As countries like the US debate reversing plastic bans, Australia has a unique opportunity to lead with science-backed, commercially viable and environmentally responsible materials.
PHA Sourcing’s role in bridging supply and demand
At PHA Sourcing, we monitor global developments like this closely. We act as an intermediary between innovators and industrial buyers, enabling companies to secure reliable access to PHA-based solutions for packaging, single-use items, and beyond. If you’re looking to integrate compostable, marine-safe bioplastics into your products or value chain, we’re here to support your transition.
Explore more about the advantages of PHA pellets or discover their many industrial applications across sectors.
