Innovate UK

HUID is a company focused on developing eco-friendly materials from waste onion skins. It aims to reduce single-use plastic consumption by creating home-compostable packaging materials. HUID specializes in producing a card-like material made from biologically processed onion skin fibers, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional wood fiber paper for secondary packaging products.

They are a leading manufacturer of liquid photopolymer resin for 3d printing as well as more traditional 2d printing, available in many packaging formats.

FlexSea specializes in the development of innovative biomaterials sourced from renewable marine resources, specifically seaweed, to create sustainable packaging solutions. The company focuses on producing compostable biopolymer materials that serve as alternatives to conventional plastic film packaging. These materials are designed to degrade within weeks and can break down in various environments, including marine, soil, and home-composting settings. By providing environmentally friendly packaging options, FlexSea enables clients to maintain product freshness and safety while minimizing environmental impact.

CLUBZERØ is an innovative company focused on tackling the global issue of packaging waste through its AI-powered zero waste packaging system. It offers a scalable and cost-effective alternative to single-use packaging for various sectors, including food and beverage brands, asset managers, and cities. CLUBZERØ provides a comprehensive service that encompasses packaging, drop points, washing, and logistics, making it up to 30% cheaper than traditional single-use options. Unlike compostable alternatives, which can contribute to environmental harm, CLUBZERØ's approach promotes true zero waste through a circular model, enabling brands to achieve up to a 93% reduction in CO2 emissions. Its AI technology allows for interoperability among diverse packaging types, addressing customer needs effectively. Having launched in the UK and US, CLUBZERØ has successfully processed over 1.3 million orders and helped save millions of single-use items from landfills. The company has collaborated with major brands and received several prestigious awards for its contributions to sustainable packaging, aiming to transform the returnable packaging sector with its advanced systems.

Kelpi is a sustainable biotechnology start-up focused on bio-refining seaweed to create innovative bioplastic packaging solutions. The company develops a thin bio-plastic coating designed to replace traditional fossil fuel-based plastics used in packaging for various products, including food, beverages, cosmetics, and personal care items. By utilizing renewable feedstocks, particularly compostable seaweed, Kelpi produces marine-safe coatings for paper and cardboard packaging that have been certified recyclable. This approach allows businesses to eliminate the reliance on single-use plastics, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging industry.

Mimica is a developer of innovative temperature-sensitive indicator tags designed for perishable products, including food and pharmaceuticals. Its flagship product, Bump by Mimica, features a patented bio-responsive label or cap that becomes bumpy when the contents are no longer safe for consumption, providing a clear and tactile indication of freshness based on actual temperature conditions. This technology is calibrated for different food types, aiming to meet the specific needs of food suppliers. By accurately reflecting the spoilage timeline of products, Mimica's solutions are projected to significantly reduce food waste—by 50% in retail settings and 60% in households—thus contributing to a more sustainable food system. The company anticipates that its innovations could prevent up to 13.6 million tonnes of food waste from European households annually, particularly in key categories such as juice, milk, and meat, addressing a critical issue in global food waste management.

Skipping Rocks Lab is a London-based startup that develops natural and biodegradable packaging for liquids made from seaweed extract. It has developed Ooho!, an edible water bottle alternative to plastic bottles. Skipping Rocks Lab was co-founded by graduates from Imperial College and Royal College of Art and is currently incubated in the Climate KIC accelerator.