RENEWABLE RAW MATERIALS FROM GMO

The use of renewable raw materials derived from Genetic Modified Organisms (GMO) is perceived as a potential risk by some consumers. The main concerns surround GMO food. However, biodegradable materials may also be a cause of concern because of the use of natural raw materials derived from GMO.

The opposition to the use of GMO is based on the perception of a biohazard posed by the creation of new inter-specific genome combinations whose effects in the food chain and in the environment cannot, according to today’s knowledge, be totally predicted. On the other hand, the decrease of biodiversity and economic damage to local, traditional crops are also elements of concern from social and economic viewpoint.

NOVAMONT's policy is to source and use only non GMO natural raw materials (such as starch). To reach this objective, traceability of natural raw materials is routinely applied as a quality control procedure in cooperation with suppliers.

For synthetic additives used in some Mater-Bi® grades and derived from multiple sources (fossil or renewable), laboratory tests are carried out by third party institutes on commercial Mater-Bi® materials. Test results have shown that the Mater-Bi® materials are not contaminated with modified DNA. Upon request of the customer, NOVAMONT can provide the analysis report on the Mater-Bi® grade of interest showing that Mater-Bi® materials do not pose biological risks.

Finally, in order to optimise the environmental impact and fully control the origin of raw materials, NOVAMONT is establishing its own production chain starting from farmers and biodegradable polymers (the Novamont’s Biorefinery project). In this case, the supplying chain control is extended to the crops thus further facilitating the traceability of raw materials.