A next generation bioplastic that breaks down naturally has earned Victoria’s EcoPHA Biotech and Sydney design firm Terra Sol Studio the Energy & Renewables Award at the 2025 InnovationAus Awards.
In a category sponsored by the University of New South Wales, EcoPHA and Terra Sol emerged ahead of strong finalists Allegro Energy, Rux Energy, Loop Hydrometallurgy Operations and Novalith Technologies.
All six finalists are advancing breakthrough ideas in sustainability, hydrogen innovation, recycling and low-emissions materials science — each worthy of recognition.
EcoPHA marine and soil-degradable PHA bioplastic, made from Pongamia oil, helps address the plastic waste crisis by breaking down completely without leaving microplastics.
Beyond the environmental impact, microplastics pose a growing health threat, with emerging research linking them to risks after being found in critical human organs, including the brain.
Terra Sol’s design-led approach transforms this PHA into high-performance consumer products, such as takeaway cups, utensils and packaging, that feel familiar in the hand yet are biodegradable in nature.
The judges commended the partnership for demonstrating that cutting-edge biotechnology and ambitious product design can combine to create scalable alternatives to single-use plastics.
The 2025 InnovationAus Awards for Excellence are proudly supported by ACS, PEXA Group, the CSIRO ON Program, Griffith Hack, TechnologyOne, Q-CTRL, National AI Centre, University of New South Wales, KPMG, AgriFutures Australia, Investment NSW and IP Australia.
Protecting your great ideas with intellectual property (IP) rights can lead to lasting benefits for your growing business. IP refers to creations of the mind, such as a brand, logo, invention, design or artistic work. Head to the IP Australia website to find out more about IP, and how it might help your business.
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