Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Due to growing concerns about the environmental effects of plastic waste, there is an increasing consumer-driven demand for plastics that can degrade into benign products at the end of their lifetime. In the agricultural sector, large quantities of plastic are used in applications such as bale wrap, silage covers, and mulch films. In some cases, materials become too dirty to recycle, and are incinerated.
Implementing biodegradable materials that can fulfill the same functions as conventional plastics remains a challenge. In the agricultural sector, the properties of plastics are enhanced by the inclusion of additives such as UV absorbers. Three major challenges associated with bioplastics are: (1) cost, although cost has been trending downward due to advances in production feedstocks and methodology; (2) lack of availability of additives that can be safely released during biodegradation; and (3) difficulty of implementing materials whose properties remain stable during use, but then degrade at the desired time.
This research will develop biopolymer blends for agricultural applications, and to tailor the properties of these materials using suitable additives that can safely be released into soil at the end of the polymer lifetime. In addition, researchers will develop enzyme solutions that can be applied in situ to initiate degradation, enabling the materials to maintain properties under a broad range of conditions, and then degrade when desired.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This project has benefits for both manufacturers of polymer and polymer additives, as well as the agricultural sector. For farmers, it will lead to reduced waste and reduced carbon footprint, improving the sustainability of agricultural activities for Alberta producers.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.