Kemira, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries, and Shanghai Bluepha Microbiology Technology Co., (Bluepha), a leading synthetic biotech company, have agreed on a three-year strategic collaboration to promote the large-scale application of PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) in fully biobased barrier coatings for paper, board and molded fiber, contributing to a move towards sustainable packaging and the elimination of plastic waste.

Through the partnership, Kemira and Bluepha will systematically introduce PHA materials into barrier coatings for paper – such as food packaging, paper labels, board and molded fiber applications, accelerating the transfer of the traditional paper industry towards a lower-carbon and sustainable future.

Michelle Xiao, Head of Kemira New Ventures, APAC, said: "We strongly believe that renewable chemistry innovations hold promise for revolutionizing the packaging landscape, providing innovative – and sustainable – alternatives to traditional fossil-based materials. That's why we're thrilled to be partnering with Bluepha PHA coatings in APAC to deliver options for the packaging value chain seeking more sustainable and biodegradable solutions."

PHA-based aqueous barrier coatings are heat sealable and offer an excellent oil, water and grease barrier.