A START-UP business at a Scottish university has developed a “smart” plastic that can sense when it is in the ocean and break itself down without creating microplastics.
University of Edinburgh start-up E.V.A. Biosystems created the material as a way of tackling plastic pollution, which can work on existing plastics to “self-destruct” in places such as oceans and landfill sites.
The start-up secured top prize at the Converge Awards for the invention, an annual prize for Scottish academic innovation.
“We're all struggling with plastic pollution, and while there are many people developing biodegradable plastics, they're too expensive and only make up about 1% of the world's plastic," said Dr Alexander Speakman (below), founder of E.V.A. Biosystems.
E.V.A. Biosystems' innovation involves adding special bacteria to conventional plastics, which can detect when they are in environments like seawater and activate enzymes that break down the plastic.
According to recent research, up to 12 million metric tons of plastic are dumped into the world's oceans every year – the equivalent of more than 100,000 blue whales.
The Converge awards are open to students, recent graduates and staff at 18 Scottish universities.
Funded by the Scottish Funding Council alongside eight corporate partners, the programme has supported the creation of more than 400 companies since its launch in 2011.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes (below) congratulated E.V.A. Industries on becoming the winner of this year’s top award.
She added that the start-up is “addressing global challenges and bringing positive change across the country.”
Forbes continued: “Translating world-class research from our universities into new innovative technologies and businesses is key to delivering on Scotland’s National Innovation Strategy to drive economic growth.
“Converge plays a vital role in providing a supportive environment for innovators and entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and connect with investors, mentors and industry leaders.”
Adam Kosterka, executive director of Converge, said this year’s cohort are “shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for Scotland and beyond”.
He added: “Together with Scotland's universities, we're helping to create an environment where transformative ideas can evolve into successful businesses, contributing to our nation's reputation as a leader of technological advancement and entrepreneurial spirit.”
