Erica Sue-Tang: Breaking the Wall of Bio-degradable Bioplastics

Erica Sue-Tang, Lincoln Argitech Ltd

Common petroleum-based plastics aren’t renewably sourced or biodegradable, and millions of tons end up in the environment, creating cancer-causing microplastics. Bioplastics are made from renewable resources but very few are biodegradable. For example, PLA is a common bioplastic, but it contributes to microplastic pollution. My idea is a cellulose bioplastic made using renewable resources that biodegrades into sugars in natural environments.

Erica has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Canterbury. Working in the New Materials team at Lincoln Agritech, her work focuses on the use of cellulose in the creation of fibres and plastics. Erica has experience working with nylon, acrylic, collagen and keratin.Erica is a skilled dancer and choreographer, participating in jazz, musical theatre and contemporary classes and has performed in national events.