Marea is an Iceland-based start-up that develops THARAPLAST, a bioplastic derived from seaweed.
The company has successfully developed a prototype of the material and is working on the packaging compliance to ASTM and EN standards in regards to product requirements and biodegradability before it can launch the product for market-test.
Its ALGINA project aims to develop a sustainable business model in seaweed bioplastic production through macroalgae research. It also aims at conducting seaweed waste mapping to pinpoint by-products development and full-utilization opportunities.
The company plans to launch the bioplastic in the market in 2023, through a release in the form of a cling film for household use. Marea intends to eventually reach pellet manufacturers in the form of THARAPLASTICS, or seaweed-derived thermoplastic pellets for the production of bioplastic films with existing equipments and technology.
Marea has several partnerships locally such as with the University of Akureyri in northern Iceland and the Horticultural Farmers’ Sales Association to develop packaging for horticultural farmers. They are also working on developing partnerships in the fishing industry.
Through zero-waste innovation and by making a sustainable use of local seaweed resources, the aim of Marea is to deliver a biodegradable material ÞARAPLAST that can successfully replace single-use plastic.
Bioplastics are the future for countless industries and seaweed is an incredible untapped resource to further the creation of a biodegradable base material.
HQ : Iceland
