#WCSJ2025FieldTrip - Environmentally sustainable, alternative plastics for the win The use of biobased, compostable bioplastics presents a significant opportunity to foster a more circular economy. Manufacturers are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainable end-of-life solutions for plastic and bioplastic products, particularly those made from renewable resources and incorporating biobased, compostable polymers. The CSIR Biodegradability Testing Facility tests and verifies the biodegradability of materials, including both imported and locally produced products marketed as biodegradable and compostable. CSIR materials experts at the CSIR Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials rely on nanotechnology to manufacture and manipulate materials that improve performance and sustainability. Using nanocomposites, they create materials with enhanced stiffness, strength and heat resistance, or with reduced moisture absorption, flammability and permeability. Examples of novel materials produced include compostable food packaging, single-use biomedical kits, compostable hospital aprons and biodegradable agricultural mulches. Join this tour to discover how advances in composite materials are helping to reduce the environmental impact of waste in packaging, agriculture and other industries. @WFSJ @SasjaSA @africascidip @dstigovza @CSIRICC @safreasocial @npclub @SAEditorsForum @DiscoverTshwane @Tshwane_Tourism @CSIR @GautengTourism