Strategic Partnership to Develop Marine Biodegradable PHA for Cosmetics

In a significant move towards sustainability in the cosmetics industry, HiChem Corporation, a Tokyo-based chemical trading company and manufacturer, has entered into a strategic partnership with PhaBuilder, a leading PHA manufacturer from Tsinghua University in Beijing, and Nikkorika Corporation, also based in Tokyo. This collaboration aims to develop and market innovative alternatives to microplastic beads in cosmetics using marine biodegradable PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate).

Background and Purpose

The presence of microplastic beads in cosmetics has emerged as a serious environmental issue, contributing to marine pollution that is harmful to ecosystems. These tiny plastic particles are difficult to remove through wastewater treatment systems, leading to their infiltration into oceans, where they are ingested by plankton and fish, adversely affecting the food chain.

In light of this, the European Union has implemented strengthened regulations regarding microplastics, with the introduction of the REACH regulation in September 2023, which gradually bans the incorporation of microplastics in cosmetics sold within the EU. This includes a complete ban on microplastic usage in makeup products such as lipsticks and nail polishes by 2035. As the industry faces mounting regulatory pressure, the need to transition towards compliant alternative products has become crucial. This partnership is a direct response to the evolving market landscape, aimed at innovating, producing, and launching alternatives that leverage PHA's marine biodegradability to mitigate the microplastic crisis.

About PHA

PHA is a type of biodegradable plastic derived from biomass through microbial processes. It breaks down ultimately into water and CO2, exhibiting high biodegradability not only in freshwater and soil but also in marine environments. This unique property positions PHA as a next-generation resin with low risk of contributing to microplastic pollution.

Roles and Strengths of each Company

PhaBuilder

PhaBuilder excels in producing diverse and affordable PHA products, leveraging 30 years of research in next-generation industrial biotechnology (NGIB) from Tsinghua University. Its newly established joint venture with Angel Yeast in Hubei operates one of the world's largest PHA production plants, aiming for a production capacity expansion to 30,000 tons annually. This capability ensures a stable supply and competitive pricing.

Nikkorika

Nikkorika specializes in powder processing techniques that enhance the characteristics of materials, making them suitable for cosmetic applications. The company has developed the