As a leading developer of biodegradable and compostable biomaterials, GAIA has monitored the challenges associated with the mulch film market for a long time. Knowing fully well that the development of a challenging new product is a marathon, rather than a sprint, GAIA has worked methodically to bridge the hurdles associated with mulch film materials before entering the final development phase. GAIA startpage GAIA BIOMATERIALS SETS ITS SIGHTS ON THE MULCH FILM MARKET GAIA BIOMATERIALS SETS ITS SIGHTS ON THE MULCH FILM MARKET Mulch films are a crucial part of modern agricultural practices, with an estimated market value of USD3,5 Bn in 2020. But new findings suggest that mulch films contribute to the very problems they are meant to tackle, with microplastic pollution, resulting in diminishing returns from the agricultural areals available. As a leading developer of biodegradable and compostable biomaterials, GAIA has monitored the challenges associated with the mulch film market for a long time. Knowing fully well that the development of a challenging new product is a marathon, rather than a sprint, GAIA has worked methodically to bridge the hurdles associated with mulch film materials before entering the final development phase. Photo: Pixabay Mulch films and microplastics – the flip side of the coin It has been long established that microplastics are harmful to people and animals. According to findings presented by Scientists at ETH Zürich, microplastics can harm the soil and vegetation as well, which spells problems for the mulch film industry. In their study, the Scientists observed how high concentrations of microplastics in the soil caused it to repel water, thus creating disturbances in how the water flowed through the soil, resulting in areas with high concentrations of microplastics receiving considerably less water. When using mulch film, high concentrations of microplastics can amass in partial areas, leading to an insufficient water supply to the plants' root systems. In the worst-case scenario, this leads to dry zones where soil cultivation becomes difficult. Building a solid ground by solving the microplastics issue Given the enormous implications associated with microplastics for humans, animals, and plants alike, GAIA had already identified this as one of the most urgent issues for several applications, including mulch films, and had this marked down as a top priority. “Traditionally, compostable biomaterials have included PLA to a larger or smaller extent," explains GAIA BioMaterials’ R&D Manager Konrad Rosén. “PLA is in many ways a fantastic material, which brings stability and strength to end applications, but it also has its drawbacks: The slow biodegradation rate in low temperatures being among the biggest ones. Through a focused R&D effort that spans several different applications, utilizing the competencies and experiences of a cross-discipline team, we found a way to omit PLA from our film grades without compromising on the material properties. The result was a material certified for home composting in thicknesses previously unimaginable.” It also proved to be a breakthrough when it came to solving the problems with microplastics: A study conducted by Scientists at ETH Zürich had previously concluded that materials with the same material composition as Biodolomer® don’t generate any microplastics when dispersed in soil, but are completely biodegraded. The future of mulch film With a growing world population and the demand for increased agricultural returns, the mulch film market is expected to continue to grow, from USD3,5 Bn in 2020 to USD5,1 Bn in 2027. Currently, biodegradable mulch films only constitute a fraction of this, with PLA-free mulch films making up even less. This, however, is projected to change. Given the disturbing findings concerning the effects of microplastics in the soil, fewer and fewer countries and landowners will be willing to risk their future agricultural returns by continuing to use mulch films that will result in microplastic pollution. To retain their current returns, they will have no other option but to use biodegradable mulch film instead that does not generate microplastics. “The potential is huge,” says Peter Stenström, CEO of GAIA BioMaterials. “We’re still at the early stages of development, but given that we have the most important feature of not creating microplastics in place from the get-go, we are confident that we will succeed.” For those interested in learning more, please refer to the following articles: Soil Science of America: A LASTING IMPACT: MICROPLASTICS SETTLING INTO SOIL Vadose Zone Journal: Microplastic induces soil water repellency and limits capillary flow Science Advances: Biodegradation of synthetic polymers in soils: Tracking carbon into CO2 and microbial biomass If you are interested in cooperating with GAIA BioMaterials concerning mulch film, please contact Peter Stenström . Gaia BioMaterials is a Swedish company that develops and produces biodegradable biomaterials. With our patented material, Biodolomer®, we are revolutionizing the plastics industry and contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet. Biodolomer® is inspired by a half-a-billion-year-old packaging design from Mother Earth – the egg. Read more . Copyright © 2023 Gaia Biomaterials AB, All rights reserved. Bunkagårdsgatan 13, Helsingborg, Sverige Published date 12 juli 2023 Category News

GAIA startpage Home Property Unit Test method Grade 900470 Typical Basic Material properties of grade 900470 Certification of Compostability and Biodegrade Food Regulatory Status Form supplied and Storage Applications Note Datasheet updated 2023-06-28 10:0 (supersedes all previous editions) Download as PDF 4 Data sheet 4

Last weekend was the first time a major global sports event used compostable bioplastic beer cups. At the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, 150,000 beer cups of compostable Biodolomer, reduced waste, microplastics and CO2 to a minimum. GAIA startpage Compostable beer cups at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Compostable beer cups at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix The beer cups, from UK-based Happy Dolphin, are the first ever to be made of compostable Biodolomer. Last weekend’s event was the first where they were used on a big scale. 150,000 cups were supplied to Ethara who are the promotors and organizers of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. "It's a fantastic sign of recognition to have been chosen by such a prestigeous event", says David Hughes of Happy Dolphin. “The cups are very durable and stable and are suitable for printing. They can be collected along with food waste and put straight in an industrial compost. The result will be soil that is very high in minerals.” Biodolomer, devised by Swedish company Gaia Biomaterials, is a bioplastic primarily made from natural minerals and vegetable oils. It comes in granules and can be used in most plastic production methods. It has the same characteristics as plastic – but is compostable, very durable and does not leave any micro plastoc or plastic pollution. Biodolomer is used for everything from grocery bags to cover film for agriculture. It is 100% compostable, CO2 neutral and does not result in any microplastics. "This a fantastic opportunity for us to show the world what our material can do, And that it is possible to totally eliminate plastic waste", says Gaia Biomaterials CEO Peter Stenström. The beer cups used in Abu Dhabi were developed by Happy Dolphin in order to be suitable for major events. They are sturdy, which reduces foaming from beer taps, and can be printed on all sides. Two different measurements are embossed in the cups. “They are extremely robust”, Hughes adds.“We’ve stepped on them, hit them with cricket bats, sat on them and they just wrinkle and can be put back in shape – ready for a refill. The only thing that broke them was when we ran them over with a car." Published date 28 nov. 2023 Category News

GAIA receives US market order for full container of drinking straw materials GAIA startpage GAIA receives US market order for full container of drinking straw materials GAIA receives US market order for full container of drinking straw materials GAIA continues its expansion into the US market and is proud to announce the first full container order for its Biodolomer® compostable bioplastics for drinking straws to sustainable serviceware producer Evanesce. The order is the result of extensive trials and tests at Evanesce and is for 15 tons of Biodolomer® E granules, equivalent to around 7,500.000 drinking straws. The material is certified for industrial composting in thicknesses of up to 1 mm by both BPI in the US and DinCertco in Europe and has received an FDA authorization of safe use of food contact substances. Spearheaded by foresighted companies like Evanesce, the US market for bioplastics is expected to grow rapidly during the coming years, but this growth will not come from out of nothing: "There is a pent-up demand from both consumers and brands for affordable sustainable solutions." Douglas Horne, CEO Evanesce “Environmental regulations and increased consumer awareness will provide the foundation for this new and exciting development, but what will ultimately drive the market is the existence of alternatives that are as good, or better, than what is available today”, says Douglas Horne, CEO of Evanesce. “There is a pent-up demand from both consumers and brands for affordable sustainable solutions, and out of the materials we have tested, Biodolomer® is the only one that has lived up to our quality expectations, while also hitting a price point where we can offer our customers a competitively priced premium product.” “Consumers are starting to recognize that being environmentally conscious does not necessarily mean that you have to give up on the things that you are used to”, adds Niklas Rosenkvist, Sales Manager at GAIA. The ambition from both parties is that this initial order will be the start of a long-standing cooperation between GAIA and Evanesce: “We are excited about our cooperation with GAIA”, continues Douglas Horne. “Not only is the end result fantastic, but the way GAIA’s team has supported us throughout the process is amazing.” ”We are convinced that the combined expertise and experience of GAIA and Evanesce will sway even more companies to choose a solution that allows their customers to enjoy their favourite beverages without being left with a bad aftertaste in their mouth; both literally and figuratively”, concludes Niklas Rosenkvist. Logotype courtesy of Evanesce. Published date 2 okt. 2024 Category Newsletter

Biodolomer is the new biodegradable material that can be used with almost all traditional plastic production methods. From film blowing to 3D-printing. The granules are used – and produced –  just like plastic granules,  but require less energy in production and can often result in higher production capacity. Which production methods do you work with? Film Blowing See all products Thermoforming See all products Injection Molding See all products Blow Molding See all products 3D printing See all products Extrusion Coating See all products Tube Extrusion See all products Other See all products Biodolomer is the new biodegradable material that can be used with almost all traditional plastic production methods. From film blowing to 3D-printing. The granules are used – and produced – just like plastic granules, but require less energy in production and can often result in higher production capacity. Production methods GAIA startpage Production methods

GAIA startpage Career All our open positions Load more GAIA BioMaterials is owned by a strong group of strategic investors, most noteworthy Investment AB Latour. GAIA is a member of Teknikföretagen and as such respects the collective agreements signed with the unions. GAIA is always looking for bright and ambitious people to join us; be it as Employees, Distributors or Agents. Below you will find the opportunities we currently offer to the right candidates. Don’t find any openings that suit you? Please feel free to contact us with a spontaneous application: We look forward to receiving your cover letter and CV to info@gaiabiomaterials.com We don't have any open positions right now. Please come back again later. Job Listing Want to know more about who we are and what we do? Get a better understanding of what GAIA is all about through the words of the people working there. So what is Gaia and Biodolomer? GAIA Biomaterials manufacture Biodolomer. A material that has most of the qualities of plastic – but not the disadvantages. You can use it for bags, jars, golf pegs, fishing nets, bottles, food trays, coffee cups – you name it. Just like plastic. But unlike plastic, Biodolomer has a limited life span. And after a while (we can set that time in the manufacturing process) it decomposes. Just as if it was a carrot or a leaf. Just like plastic. Is not. Just like plastic. Is not. Imagine a material that can be used like plastic. Works like plastic. Looks like plastic. But that is beyond plastic. Does not leave any microplastics. One that decomposes and results in 80% less CO2 emissions. We have developed and make that material. It’s called Biodolomer. Peter Stenström, CEO Why did you choose to work at GAIA BioMaterials? I had sold another business and was looking for something new to work on. I then met the founder of GAIA and realized quite immediately that I want to become a partner in this and be part of building it up. What is the future vision? That GAIA will become a really powerful alternative to the fossil plastics and to establish the company on several continents. That we build another factory is a matter of course. What does GAIA BioMaterials do for the well-being of its employees? Like many others, GAIA has staff activities, wellness allowances and coffee breaks. But, what we do above all to create well-being is to build a nice family atmosphere where we help each other. What are the main advantages of working at GAIA BioMaterials? You are involved in building something that will be big and you get the chance to develop in step with the company together with fantastic colleagues. What makes GAIA BioMaterials an attractive and modern workplace? Short decision-making paths, great participation in the processes for our employees and flexibility in how we work. We are helped to realize the possibilities and we usually jokingly say that we make world-class products - it's true. What are important qualities to enjoy this service? Collaborative, constructive, innovative, structured. Konrad Rosén, R&D Manager I chose to work at GAIA BioMaterials to be part of the growth journey from day one, be part of the entrepreneurial process and contribute to developing the product. The future vision is to be at the forefront of environmentally friendly materials, with R&D in Helsingborg and production facilities globally. For employees' well-being, we offer a gym, massages, fruit and a culture where we believe in each other. Here there is an opportunity to influence and make a difference, with fast decision-making paths and visibility. As an employee at GAIA BioMaterials, you are offered freedom under responsibility, flexible working hours and respectful communication. To thrive in the position as an application engineer, you need to be curious, responsive, social and goal-oriented. Tobias Wilbs, Finance Manager I have worked at GAIA BioMaterials since October 2023. What attracted me was, among other things, the opportunity to work in a small company where everyone has a big impact on the bottom line and that GAIA has a big role to play in a more sustainable world. The career opportunities that a growth journey provides are also inspiring. There is a constant drive forward and things happen at the pace you, as an employee, can influence in many ways. The atmosphere in my team is great, simple and straight forward. At GAIA, we build something step by step. All processes and approaches are not set, but here every employee has great opportunities to influence, which is very stimulating. Voices from within GAIA: Doing things the GAIA way Listen to GAIA’s Sales Director Niklas Rosenkvist describe the market GAIA operates within, and what is expected from the people that are put in charge of realizing it.

Here you can find our cookie policy. We value your privacy and want to make sure you are informed about what cookies we store. GAIA startpage Cookie policy Cookies and Tracking Technologies Our website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to recognize repeat use of our website by the same user/internet connection subscriber. These technologies allow us to collect information about your browsing behaviour and preferences in order to improve our website and services. In most cases these are so-called “session cookies” that are deleted once you leave our website. Cookies – to an extent – forward information used to automatically recognize you through an IP address saved to the cookies. The collected information is used to improve our services and expedite your access to the website. We are by law allowed to store cookies on your device if they are strictly necessary for the operation of this site. For all other types of cookies, we need your permission. You can prevent cookies from being installed by adjusting the settings on your browser software accordingly. You should be aware, however, that by doing so you may not be able to make full use of all the functions of our website. Reset cookies settings Cookie policy

Here you will find our terms of sale where we describe how our sales process works. GAIA startpage Terms of sale

Biodolomer can be used to replace conventional plastic in all industries. Wherever there is a need for products or packaging with a limited life span, Biodololomer can offer a biodegradable option. While at the same time providing the characteristics of plastic. GAIA startpage Industries Just a few of the industries that use Biodolomer® Agriculture, Horticulture & Aquaculture See all solutions Automotive See all solutions FMCG See all solutions Food & Beverage See all solutions Medical & healthcare See all solutions Packaging See all solutions Public Sector See all solutions Hotel, restaurant & Catering See all solutions Sports and Recreation See all solutions Biodolomer can be used to replace conventional plastic in all industries. Wherever there is a need for products or packaging with a limited life span, Biodololomer can offer a biodegradable option. While at the same time providing the characteristics of plastic. Industries

Here you can find our cookie policy. We value your privacy and want to make sure you are informed about how we manage your data. GAIA startpage Privacy policy

GAIA startpage 900290 Biodolomer® T 900290 Biodolomer® T 900290 is a biodegradable biomaterial developed for the thermoforming process. Bidolomer® T 900290 is based on renewable resources and is industrially compostable. Biodolomer® T exhibits the following properties: High strength and stiffness High water vapor transmission rate ( WVTR ) High melt strength: MFI (190 °C, 2.16 kg): 6-8 g Good processability on conventional sheet extrusion lines up to 180 °C Printable without corona treatment Trials are always recommended to assess the quality of the final product. Property Unit Test method Grade 900290 Typical Basic Material properties of grade 900290 Certification of Compostability and Biodegrade Biodolomer® T fulfills the requirements of the existing standards for compostable and biodegradable polymers because it can be degraded by microorganisms. The biodegradation process in soil depends on the specific environment (climate, soil quality, population of microorganisms). Food Regulatory Status Biodolomer® T is one of the few compostable polymers, that complies in its composition with the European foodstuff legislation for food contact, EU Directive 10 / 2011 / EC with amendment 2023/1442. Specific limitations and more details are given on request. The converter or packer has to check the suitability of the article for the application. Form supplied and Storage Biodolomer® T is supplied as lenticular pellets in big bags. Temperatures during transportation and storage may not exceed 60 °C at any time. Storage time of unopened bags may not surpass 12 months at room temperature (23 °C). Applications Biodolomer® T has been developed for the conversion to extruded films from 0.3 - 8 mm thickness using a sheet extrusion process with subsequent thermoforming operation. Typical applications are packaging film for cups, trays, boards, and other thermoformed containers or articles. In view of numerous factors influencing the functionality and shelf life of Biodolomer® films and finished articles made thereof, the production parameters have to be tested by the converters before utilization. Note The information submitted in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience. In view of the many factors that may affect processing and application, these data do not relieve processors of the responsibility of carrying out their own tests and experiments; neither do they imply any legally binding assurance for a special purpose. It is the responsibility of those to whom we supply our products to ensure that any proprietary rights and existing laws and legislation are observed. Datasheet updated 2024-06-12 9:30 (supersedes all previous editions) Download as PDF

Job Listing GAIA startpage Career Sales Manager to GAIA BioMaterials Sales Manager to GAIA BioMaterials Take the opportunity to be part of a company at the forefront of sustainable development. Gaia BioMaterials are looking for a new colleague in the role as Sales Manager, focusing on the sales of our material Biodolomer in the European Market. Come and join our committed and dynamic team working to make a difference. Welcome with your application! We offer Joining GAIA Biomaterials offers a unique opportunity to engage with the development of Biodolomer—a groundbreaking material that combines the advantages of traditional plastics without their environmental impact. Our efforts, rooted in the visionary ideas of our founder, Åke Rosén, and supported by notable investors like Investment AB Latour, emphasize our commitment to a sustainable future. As part of our team in Helsingborg, Sweden, you'll receive a comprehensive introduction to not only our technology and operations but also our collaborative culture. This role spans across laboratory research, production, sales, and marketing, ensuring a deep understanding of our end consumers’ needs. By becoming part of our close-knit company, you contribute to our collective performance and product enhancement, fueling continuous growth and sustainable development. Latour's involvement guarantees a stable foundation and opens avenues for expansion and professional growth in line with our company's trajectory. We prioritize a thorough understanding of our industry, technology, and products, aiming to empower our team for personal and professional advancement while making a significant impact on sustainability. You will As Sales Manager, you will be responsible for developing and expanding our sales in the European market. Your key contribution will be as a stakeholder for business development and your ambition is to add value to the organization and drive development both strategically and operatively. Part of your responsibilities is to managing business models and pricing, building, and maintaining a network of agents, distributors, and direct customer contacts. Furthermore, you will: Drive sales and looking for new leads Ensure agreed sales targets are achieved Visiting existing and new customers on a regular basis Represent Gaia BioMaterials at international fairs and events. Collaborate with partners to reach global markets. Contribute to product development projects and new applications for Biodolomer Coordinate all administrative activities between customers and the internal organization Offer technical advice according to ability and experience and liaise with R&D and back office as appropriate You are Your professional experience is characterized in sales toward Industrial & Consumer packaging accounts. You are driven and self-motivated, with a proven track record of achieving sales targets and fostering strong relationships with customers. Your technical proficiency enables you to communicate complex product information in a clear and accessible manner, making you a trusted advisor to your customers. You are eager to delve into the lifecycle of biomaterials and polymers, from their design and production to their end use and recyclability, and you have a strong interest in how these materials can be innovated to reduce environmental impact. Your passion for sustainable development is at the core of your professional ethos, guiding your efforts to promote products and solutions that contribute to a greener, more sustainable world. Since the role requires engaging with a global audience and driving international sales initiatives, you are proficiency in English. You are also ready to travel within your area of responsibility. Want to know more? We are collaborating with Nexer Recruit regarding this recruitment. Please contact recruitment consultant Johanna Värmfors at johanna.varmfors@nexergroup.com , or +46 730 821 230 if you want to learn more about the position. We are looking forward to hearing from you! Since we are working with Nexer on this recruitment, we are unfortunately not able to receive applications sent directly to GAIA. Instead, please apply here . Sales Manager .pdf Download PDF • 71KB