Kelpi has secured a combination of private and public funding to develop sustainable bioplastics from seaweed, marking a significant advancement in its mission to combat plastic pollution.

Target Company Overview

Kelpi, a sustainable biotech startup based in Bath, focuses on the bio-refining of seaweed to produce bioplastic packaging that is both marine-safe and compostable at home. The company aims to address the significant environmental issues posed by traditional plastics, which predominantly derive from fossil fuels and contribute to pollution and climate change. Kelpi has developed a unique methodology in collaboration with the University of Bath to synthesize biopolymer composites from seaweed, making it a pioneer in the bioplastics sector.

With sourcing agreements established with seaweed suppliers in Europe and Asia, where the majority of the world's seaweed is cultivated, Kelpi is positioning itself to expand its product offerings and meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The company's primary focus is on creating thin films for the food industry, an area previously dominated by single-use plastics with low recycling rates.

Industry Overview in the UK

The bioplastics industry in the UK is rapidly evolving, influenced by increasing consumer awareness and governmental regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste. More than 99% of the plastics currently produced are derived from fossil fuels, raising concerns about sust