Specialty Crops Research at Iowa State University, Ohio State University, University of Illinois, and University of Nevada
Emerging technologies in the area of bioplastics show strong potential for the use of these biorenewable, biodegradable materials in container specialty cropping systems. Bioplastic container cropping systems could improve sustainability and profitability over the long term by reducing our dependence on foreign crude oil, by eliminating the costs associated with disposal of non-biodegradable containers, and by providing a modest input of nitrogen fertilizer as a byproduct of container degradation.
If you are interested in learning more about the development and implementation of bioplastics technology in the specialty crops horticulture industry, see the links on this page.
The 2012 Bioplastic Container Cropping Systems Conference on August 15 was a huge success, with representatives from across the country in attendance. The presentation slides are available for viewing in PDF format on the BCCS Conference Presentations page.
This research is funded by the USDA - Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI), Iowa State University, and by contributions from the United Soybean Board, Metabolix, Arizona Chemical, R&D Leverage, Aspen Research Corporation, Soy Works, Nursery Supplies Inc., Country Landscapes Inc., and East Jordan Plastics.
6-week-old Salvia in injection-molded 31 Bioplastic containers and composites bioplastic containers evaluated in Round 1