Biodegradable Plastic “Sonali”Returns to water and soil
We support Japanese companies and local governments with the sourcing, joint trials and product planning of Sonali — a jute-derived bioplastic developed in Bangladesh.
About Sonali
What the material isA fully biodegradable bioplastic made from jute cellulose. Developed in Bangladesh, it has drawn international attention as an alternative to conventional polythene bags, and is also known as the “golden bag” or “jute polymer”.
Jute is a renewable plant fibre that needs almost no chemical fertiliser or pesticide to grow.
It does not generate microplastics, and plants have been confirmed to grow in the soil where it has broken down.
Pricing and supply terms depend on the application and the volume. We can start small, beginning with samples.
About
What biodegradable plastic isBiodegradable plastic is the general term for plastics that break down into water and carbon dioxide through the action of microorganisms. It is a different question from “biomass plastic”, which refers to whether the raw material is plant-derived; the two are easily confused.
The conditions under which they break down also differ by material. Some require industrial composting facilities (high temperature, high humidity); others break down in natural water and soil. When deciding an application, it is easier to choose once you have settled whether the item will be collected and processed, or will remain where it is used.
The differences between types, and how to choose between them, are set out in our column on the types of bioplastics.
Sonali
Where Sonali sitsA jute-derived cellulose material
- The raw material is cellulose derived from jute
- No industrial composting facility is required; breakdown proceeds in natural water and soil
- The time taken varies with shape, thickness and environment; thinner items break down faster
- It is stable in normal dry storage (breakdown proceeds on contact with moisture)
The properties described here are based on materials from the developer and from our own records. Third-party testing is planned in stages, and we do not publish results of tests that have not been carried out.
Use
How to evaluate itStart from the application
- Envisaged uses include bags and packaging, agricultural and fisheries materials, and novelty or environmental-education items
- It can often be formed on existing equipment, though conditions may need adjusting
- It can start with a sample. Confirming it on the equipment you actually use is the sure way
- Where an application removes the labour and industrial-waste costs of collection and disposal, the comparison looks different on total cost
Joint trials with local governments and companies are also possible.
FAQ
Frequently asked questionsWhat is biodegradable plastic?
It is the general term for plastics that break down into water and carbon dioxide through the action of microorganisms. It is a separate question from biomass plastic, which refers to whether the raw material is plant-derived; some materials are both, and some are only one.
How does it differ from biomass plastic?
They look at different things. Biomass plastic refers to whether the raw material is plant-derived; biodegradable plastic refers to whether it breaks down after use. Some plant-derived materials do not break down, and some petroleum-derived ones do.
How long does Sonali take to break down?
Depending on shape, thickness and the environment it sits in, anywhere from a few hours to about a year. Thinner items are faster; thicker ones take longer. Tell us the application and we can give a figure for comparable conditions.
Is an industrial composting facility required?
No. Because breakdown proceeds in natural water and soil, no special facility is needed.
Are there third-party test results or certifications?
Third-party testing has not been carried out at this point. The properties described are based on materials from the developer and from our own records. Domestic certification is under consideration and preparation; we will announce it on this page and in our news once confirmed.