South African bioplastics, bolstered by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), are poised to revolutionise the agricultural sector by providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. Andrew Pollock, entrepreneur and founder of The Compostable Company, believes that South Africa is perfectly positioned to capture this market, especially considering the vast amounts of plastic currently used in farming, such as clips, sheeting, twine, and rope.
Innovations in Biodegradable Agricultural Products
In 2019, The Compostable Company began importing Italian bioplastic resins from the Mater-Bi range, developed by Novamont, an Italian bioplastics leader. These plant-based resins were used to create the world’s first biodegradable agriclip, as well as mulch films and agritape, which were successfully trialled on Alexanderfontein wine farm in the Darling district. Over five years, the farm transitioned to plastic-free vineyards, showcasing the potential of bioplastics in sustainable farming.
The company has since expanded its offerings, including a new agritwine created in partnership with SICOR and Novamont Bayer in Portugal, which will be trialled in South Africa and Zimbabwe. These innovations underline the potential for South African bioplastics to meet global demand for sustainable agricultural solutions.
AGOA: A Game-Changer for South African Bioplastics
AGOA provides a significant competitive advantage for South African bioplastics. This US trade agreement offers preferential access to the American market, allowing African manufacturers to land their products at a cost advantage that no other First World country enjoys. Pollock sees this as a unique opportunity to establish a bioplastics manufacturing hub in the Western Cape, supplying the US with biodegradable agricultural products.
The alignment between AGOA and the California Office of Environmental Farming & Innovation (OEFI) further strengthens this potential. OEFI agrees that reducing plastic use in agriculture would benefit the environment, and Pollock plans to showcase South African-made bioplastics to US stakeholders in California, making a compelling case for sustainable alternatives to Chinese plastic imports.
Future Prospects and Economic Impact
Pollock is optimistic about South Africa’s continued inclusion in AGOA, despite recent diplomatic tensions with the US. He is confident that the newly formed government of national unity will secure the extension of AGOA, recognising the mutual benefits it offers. From an agricultural perspective, AGOA’s continuation would be transformative, enabling local factories to upscale and creating downstream opportunities in the Western Cape.
World Bank Endorsement and Global Opportunities
The World Bank has also identified the potential for South African exporters to benefit from producing carbon-competitive goods. The increasing environmental regulations in Europe, particularly around plastic packaging, make it imperative for South African exporters to explore non-plastic alternatives. Bioplastics, which are deemed environmentally friendly, offer a viable solution to meet these stringent requirements and open up new trading opportunities.
A Personal Commitment to Sustainability
Pollock’s personal commitment to reducing plastic pollution, sparked by finding microplastics in his borehole water, has driven his involvement in this field. His company’s latest venture, a compostable golf tee prototype, has already attracted interest from international markets, further highlighting the global relevance of South African bioplastics.
Positioning South Africa as a Leader in Bioplastics
In conclusion, South Africa’s bioplastics sector, supported by AGOA, presents a unique opportunity to lead the global shift towards sustainable agricultural practices. By embracing these innovations, South Africa can position itself as a key player in the global market for environmentally friendly agricultural products, benefiting both the local economy and the environment.