Global sustainable packaging leader BioPak has launched its innovative home-compostable cups made from polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA).
“PHA has been a long time in the making, with our dedicated team working tirelessly to bring this product to market,” said BioPak CEO Gary Smith.
“We are incredibly proud and excited to be the first to bring this ground-breaking product to Australia,” he added.
According to BioPak, PHA, a biopolymer produced through fermentation using renewable resources like plant sugars and vegetable oils, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
BioPak’s PHA-lined cups are composed entirely of bio-based renewable resources, such as FSCTM responsibly sourced paper and PHA lining.
Unlike conventional plastic cups, these are home-compostable at the end of their life, supporting BioPak’s mission to enable consumers to manage their packaging waste sustainably.
“As a B Corp, we are always striving to do better and be at the forefront of innovation and R&D,” Smith added.
A key feature of PHA is its certification as marine biodegradable. This means that if the cups end up in the ocean, they will break down significantly faster—within 180 days—compared to conventional plastics.
However, Smith emphasised responsible disposal practices.
“This is a breakthrough in bioplastics. However, our products are not designed to be disposed of in the marine environment, so we won’t be advertising it on the cup. Its ability to biodegrade quickly is not a license to litter, but an opportunity to have an end-of-life solution for people with access to home composting,” he explained.
Set to launch later this year, BioPak’s PHA lined BioCups will be available in 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz single wall options.
These cups will be certified home compostable to Australian and European standards (AS5810 and NFT51-800), ensuring they meet environmental benchmarks.
