Novamont: Mater-Bi Mulch Film Can Be Classified as an Inorganic Fertilizer, Does Not Release Persistent Microplastics

In early November 2025, during the Italian ecological and environmental exhibition (Ecomondo), Novamont announced that its agricultural weed control mulch film made from Mater-Bi material has obtained compliance certification under the *Fertilizing Products Regulation (EU) 2019/1009*.

Compared to polyethylene film, this Mater-Bi film is biodegradable in soil and does not require separate treatment at the end of its life cycle.

Obtaining this certification requires meeting all the requirements specified in *Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2787* — which amends the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 concerning the "biodegradability in the environment (water and soil) of polymers used in the manufacture of mulch films" and "ecotoxicity."

Novamont stated: "This Mater-Bi film has been proven not to accumulate in soil, not to release persistent microplastics, and not to have ecotoxic effects on the environment. Microbial activity leads to its complete mineralization, subsequently converting it into carbon dioxide and water. Therefore, according to EU regulations, it can be recognized as an inorganic soil improver, i.e., a fertilizing product with the function of 'maintaining, improving, or protecting the physical or chemical properties, structure, or biological activity of the soil to which it is added.'"

Novamont CEO Catia Bastioli explained: "This certification fully demonstrates that Novamont's pioneering Mater-Bi bioplastic series does not release persistent microplastics into the environment. For years, building on Mater-Bi bioplastics, we have developed a range of bioproducts and agroecological solutions, from soil-biodegradable mulch films to bio-pesticides, bio-lubricants, and other biodegradable bioplastic applications. Through these products, we can efficiently manage crops, contribute to the remediation of contaminated soil, and address environmental challenges."

Bastioli added: "Novamont has proactively set a goal — to apply the same stringent standards of the Fertilizing Products Regulation when developing Mater-Bi materials for producing shopping bags, fruit and vegetable bags, and various other applications. Applying the Fertilizing Products Regulation standards to these bioproducts can enhance guarantees regarding their biodegradability, non-accumulation in soil, and environmental non-ecotoxicity, thereby protecting the entire industrial chain, our land, and communities."

According to Novamont, Mater-Bi is the result of a series of proprietary pioneering technologies in the fields of starch, vegetable oils, and their compounds. All grades of Mater-Bi products are certified by renowned certification bodies and comply with major European and international standards. Their renewable content can reach up to 100%, with performance and characteristics comparable to traditional plastics, while also possessing biodegradability and compostability in accordance with the European standard UNI EN 13432.

Based on information publicly available from antitrust authorities, a typical formulation of Mater-Bi is a "blend of PBAT and starch." This combination retains the bio-based attribute of starch while enhancing the material's toughness and weather resistance through PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), making it suitable for high-frequency use scenarios such as shopping bags and agricultural films.