CJ CheilJedang Launches 'Biodegradable Volume-Based Waste Bags'... Expanding PHA Commercialization

350,000 Volume-Based Waste Bags Donated to Junggu District Office in Seoul

Used for Programs Such as the "Recyclables-for-Waste Bag Exchange" Initiative

On April 28, CJ CheilJedang announced the launch of volume-based waste bags made from biodegradable bio-material PHA, developed using fermentation technology. These products are designed to replace petroleum-based plastic bags, expanding the application of PHA from straws and cosmetic containers to everyday household items.

The new volume-based waste bags offer comparable durability (tensile strength) to existing products, while elasticity (elongation) has been increased by 1.8 times. As a result, the bags are less likely to tear easily and can securely hold larger amounts of waste.

At the CJ CheilJedang-Junggu District Office business agreement ceremony, Jung Hyuksung, Head of the BMS Division at CJ CheilJedang (third from the left), Kim Gilsung, Mayor of Junggu District Office (fourth from the left), and officials are posing for a commemorative photo. Photo by CJ CheilJedang.

CJ CheilJedang signed an agreement with the Junggu District Office in Seoul and donated 350,000 of these bags. The bags are available in two sizes, 10 liters and 20 liters, and will be used for street cleaning and household purposes. For households, residents can exchange recyclable items such as cans and glass bottles at their local community center to receive the bags. This initiative aims to encourage participation in resource circulation.

PHA is a material produced through a fermentation process in which microorganisms feed on plant-derived sugars such as sugarcane. Unlike petrochemical-based plastics, PHA is less affected by fluctuations in oil prices and is considered an eco-friendly material as it breaks down not only in soil but also in marine environments. Currently, only a few companies worldwide are capable of mass-producing PHA, and in Korea, CJ CheilJedang is the only company to do so.

Since launching the biodegradable material brand 'PHACT' in 2022, CJ CheilJedang has steadily expanded its range of applications. After introducing cosmetic containers, plastic packaging, and disposable straws, the company has accelerated commercialization by extending PHA use to artificial turf infill and sanitary dishcloths, among others.

A CJ CheilJedang official stated, "Through CJ CheilJedang's technological capabilities, petroleum-based plastic vinyl commonly used in daily life has now been replaced with eco-friendly materials," adding, "We plan to focus on developing biodegradable products that are both consumer-friendly and environmentally conscious."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.