Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

New player in biodegradables?

The Irish economy may be in shambles, but innovation still percolates.

It’s illustrated by a company called Bioplastech, which aims to convert waste, ag byproducts, and petrochemical products into value-added biodegradable plastic called polyhydroxyalkanoate.

The polyhydroxyalkanoate project got launched, says Cleantech.com, at the university level, notably University College Dublin. But now the company has access to about $14.7 million in funding from the Irish Government to commercialize the new technology. Biodegradable packaging would be one of the products the firm sees its technology eventually producing.

Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics
What's in store for CPGs in 2025 and beyond? Packaging World editors explore the survey responses from 118 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG Packaging World readers for its new Annual Outlook Report.
Download
Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics