D&L pioneers biodegradable plastics production

MANILA, Philippines — Listed food and chemicals company D&L Industries is pioneering the manufacture of biodegradable plastics in the country that are certified internationally.

Its subsidiary D&L Polymers & Colours Inc. (DLPC) has received international certification for its compostable biopolymers or more commonly known as biodegradable plastics.

With the certification, biopolymers under DLPC’s proprietary Biorez  line are now recognized worldwide as compliant European standards for biodegradable plastics.

These standards certify plastics whose end of life is either through composting or as feedstock in anaerobic digestion.

The standard sets out the requirements for biodegradable plastics which include, among others, heavy metal limits, 90 percent biodegradation within six months and eco-toxicity testing which ensures that soil is still conducive for plant growth after biodegradable plastics have composted on it.

The Philippines’ standard for biodegradable plastics known as PNS-2102 is an adaptation of the European Standard (E13432) and US Standard (ASTMD6400).

According to D&L, Biorez can be used in most single-use plastic applications such as bags, straws, cups, bottles, and films for sachets.

It has been exported to Italy for bags and cutleries application.

DLPC is the only company in the Philippines that manufactures biodegradable products which are internationally certified.

The company is confident it can meet the needs of the local plastic industry and even the export market should they decide to switch to more sustainable and biodegradable raw materials.

“Biopolymers is an industry that we are developing in the Philippines. The market is now aware that we are the leaders in this technology,” said Lester Lao, DLPC managing director.

He said  the certification gives credibility to the company’s brand Biorez which opens opportunities to service not just domestic but also overseas demand.

“While the current contribution to our sales remains small, we are optimistic on the potential of biopolymers as the world shifts towards more sustainable and environment-friendly plastic materials.”