Circular Economy

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)

A family of biopolyesters produced by bacterial fermentation that biodegrade in soil and marine environments, used as a renewable plastic alternative.

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Definition

Polyhydroxyalkanoates are a family of polyesters synthesised naturally by bacteria as intracellular energy storage, then extracted for use as thermoplastics. Produced by fermenting sugars, plant oils or waste feedstocks, PHAs are bio-based and can biodegrade in soil, freshwater and marine conditions without industrial composting, distinguishing them from most other bioplastics.

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