Perth-based materials company Uluu is set to scale production of its seaweed-based alternative to plastic packaging after securing $2.1 million through the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program.
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources says $2,107,300 will support C Sea Solutions to scale production of Uluu, with the grant aimed at completing trials, gaining certification and commercialising the material. The department says the company is targeting first sales in sustainable packaging for cosmetics.
Uluu says the funding will increase production capacity tenfold and support its transition from pilot-scale development towards a plant producing 10 tonnes of material per year.
The plastic-like material is said to be lightweight with good barrier properties, durable and recyclable.
“This funding allows us to move decisively into the next phase of Uluu’s journey, scaling production and further validating our materials in-market,” says Michael Kingsbury, co-founder and co-chief executive officer at Uluu.
“It’s about bringing all our hard work in the lab to more customers and more commercial products, sooner.”
The company says increased capacity will support commercial trials, beginning with applications in cosmetics packaging and fashion, alongside collaborations with brands to develop prototype products and capsule collections.
The project will also support regulatory requirements, including food-grade certification, further home compostability certifications and sustainable seaweed certification.
“Scaling a new material isn’t just about volume, it’s about meeting or exceeding the standards, certifications and performance expectations of our customers,” Kingsbury says.
The Industry Growth Program supports businesses to commercialise new products, processes and services, with the latest round funding five projects aligned with priority areas for the National Reconstruction Fund.
