To address Thailand’s growing waste issue, Universal Biopack, a company in the country, is utilizing plant-based materials for its packaging solutions. Instead of using plastic, the company incorporates a blend of bamboo and cassava, which are abundant crops in Thailand. The nation has experienced significant economic growth in recent years but has struggled, like many other countries in the region, to manage the millions of tons of waste generated annually.
Vara-Anong Vichakyothin, the managing director of Universal Biopack, acknowledges the widespread waste management challenges faced globally. The company has developed a zero-waste packaging technology in partnership with a Bangkok university. The innovative formula took five years to perfect and has the potential to replace traditional Styrofoam containers and plastic bags that contribute to massive garbage dumps in Thailand and neighboring Southeast Asian nations.
The bamboo used in Universal Biopack’s packaging is sourced from residual materials from the production of chopsticks, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. The company supplies its products to restaurants, organic farmers, and businesses in the food and beverage sector in urban centers like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. However, convincing takeout vendors to prioritize environmentally-friendly packaging over cost considerations presents a challenge.
Despite the hurdles, Universal Biopack remains committed to promoting sustainable practices in Thailand’s packaging industry. The company’s founder, Suthep Vichakyothin, acknowledges the slow adoption of the technology due to economic constraints within the local market. Nevertheless, the company is optimistic about the growing environmental consciousness driving demand for eco-friendly solutions.
In response to the increasing interest in sustainable packaging, Universal Biopack is expanding its operations. By investing in automation and workforce expansion, the company aims to enhance production capacity and meet growing demand. The goal is to scale up monthly production from 300,000 units to one million, catering to both domestic and international clients.
Overseas markets, including customers in Scandinavia, have shown interest in Universal Biopack’s natural packaging solutions. The company’s products are being used for exporting coconut water, highlighting the global appeal of eco-friendly alternatives. As the demand for sustainable packaging continues to rise, Universal Biopack is poised to capitalize on the growing market opportunities both locally and internationally.