PLASTICS MADE PERFECT

 

 

Degradable Single-Use Polypropylene Cutlery

 

St. Laurent, Quebec, September 17, 2007 – POLAR PLASTIC LTD. is very pleased to officially launch POLAR ECOPRO Single-Use Polypropylene Cutlery, the first line of cutlery made from totally oxo-degradable polypropylene. Manufactured by POLAR, POLAR ECOPRO cutlery is specifically designed to degrade considerably faster than traditionally produced plastic cutlery.

Early in our company’s history, POLAR recognized an environmental commitment by producing our products with efficient, non-polluting state-of-the-art machinery. We would later band together with like minded companies to found a not for profit company focused on the recycling of post consumer polystyrene waste. The next step in reducing our environmental footprint is to produce single-use products with the ability to use predetermined time to effectively manage their eventual demise.

In today’s fast paced world, consumers have come to rely on single-use foodservice products in their daily routine. While most single-use plastic foodservice items are 100% recyclable few consumers would consider including these items in their current recycling program. For this reason alone POLAR has decided to take the guesswork out of the hands of the consumer by producing POLAR ECOPRO, a line of environmentally responsible single-use foodservice products which will specifically address the reduction of solid waste.

As a leader in the Canadian foodservice industry we have taken great strides to find a solution to immediate environmental concerns. For over 3 years POLAR has worked with a Canadian based firm to develop a mixture of plastic resin and TDPA™ (Totally Degradable Plastic Additives) which effectively balances product performance with post consumer degradation.

 

How does POLAR ECOPRO work?

When mixed with the base resin, the TDPA^TM gives polypropylene special degradation properties without compromising the performance of the product. After use, when the product is discarded, it begins to undergo oxidative degradation much faster than traditional plastic products. Oxygen, together with heat, UV radiation or mechanical stress transforms the polypropylene (with TDPA^TM) into a fine powder which bacteria and other micro-organisms can digest.

POLAR ECOPRO products are safe, effective, and pose no hazard to human health or the environment. POLAR has received approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for POLAR ECOPRO products to be used in direct contact with food. A distinctive label will appears on all POLAR ECOPRO cartons, informing foodservice operators that they are using a product which contributes to environmental protection. A best before date will also be clearly marked on the carton to ensure that the product is used prior to the peak of degradation.

Oxo-degradable additives are not limited for use with polypropylene. POLAR has obtained exclusive Canadian rights to use TDPA^TM in products produced with both polypropylene and polystyrene; and in the coming months we will announce the introduction of polystyrene cups, plates and containers produced with TDPA^TM.

 

View the complete POLAR ECOPRO line.

 

For more information please contact us.