As South Africa grapples with the harsh reality of plastic pollution, a new beacon of hope emerges. Fortis X, a local Cape Town-based company, has introduced Africa’s first biodegradable and recyclable plant-based packaging.
This revolutionary initiative arrives just in time for Plastic Free July®, a global movement encouraging millions to take “small steps and make a big difference” in reducing single-use plastics.
An estimated 122 million tons of waste is produced annually in South Africa, yet only 10% is recycled, leaving 90% to clutter landfills. This waste crisis contributes significantly to environmental and health issues, as microplastic pollution infiltrates human blood and disrupts ecosystems.
According to scientific studies, microplastics significantly damage human cells, potentially leading to severe health problems, including cancers, lung disease, and birth defects.
Fortis X aims to address these issues by offering sustainable alternatives. Nicholas De Beer, Director of Fortis X, said:
“By providing sustainable plant-based bottles as an alternative to single-use plastics, we offer businesses and individuals an alternative to single-use plastic and help make a positive impact on the environment.”
These innovative bottles, crafted from sugarcane-derived biopolymers, not only reduce plastic waste but also combat water pollution. They serve a variety of industries, from beverages to cosmetics, offering a versatile and eco-friendly packaging solution.
Unlike conventional plastics, which take centuries to decompose, Fortis X’s bottles biodegrade within 1 to 3 months under composting conditions.
Fortis X’s packaging has already gained traction among notable brands. SOGA Organic®, a leader in South Africa’s organic citrus industry, has adopted these biodegradable bottles for their Certified Organic frozen orange juice.
“We recognised the value of Fortis X’s 100% biodegradable/certified compostable packaging and, after rigorous testing, were proud to launch our product in these bottles, demonstrating our commitment to quality and sustainability,” shared Lize Garrod, Marketing Manager at SOGA Organic.
Other brands like BOS Ice Tea, Omnia Natura, Bonnie Bio, and Mother E have also begun integrating these eco-friendly containers into their product lines, reflecting a broader shift towards sustainable packaging solutions in South Africa.
As Plastic Free July continues to inspire action against plastic pollution, Fortis X’s groundbreaking plant-based packaging offers a tangible solution. Will you join the movement and choose alternatives to single-use plastics?
Source: IOL
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