Cutting-edge technology delivers biodegradable cutlery

A joint venture between Archer Daniels Midland Company and Metabolix plans to produce a new generation of natural plastics that are made from agricultural raw materials rather than petrochemicals, by building a plant in north America with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons. The plastics can withstand hot liquids, grease and oils, yet will biodegrade when disposed of. Consumer awareness of the environmental and social impact of the products they buy has led to more companies marketing products as fair trade or environmentally friendly. The plastic has a variety of applications including coated paper, film and molded goods, which would allow the plastic to be used in packaging. "The plastics created from PHA polymers are natural, biodegradable and renewable, and we are pleased to begin their commercial production," stated G. Allen Andreas, ADM chairman, CEO and president. "As the world's demand for petroleum continues to increase, ADM believes that this facility is a positive step towards producing renewable plastics that offer the global marketplace an alternative to traditional petroleum-derived plastics."